Brief Overview of Ἀθηναῖος (Athenaios) – G117 from Strong’s Bible Concordance

Ἀθηναῖος (Athenaios) – G117:
The Greek term “Ἀθηναῖος” refers to someone from Athens, denoting an Athenian or a person belonging to the city of Athens. It is used in the New Testament to describe the identity or origin of certain individuals associated with Athens.

Detailed Overview Incorporating Other Concordances

Ἀθηναῖος (Athenaios) – G117:

1. Strong’s Concordance:

• Meaning: Strong’s Concordance defines “Ἀθηναῖος” as an adjective meaning “Athenian” or “pertaining to Athens.” It is used to indicate someone from Athens, often reflecting their cultural or regional identity in the context of the New Testament.

1. Thayer’s Greek Lexicon:

• Meaning: Thayer’s Lexicon supports the definition of “Ἀθηναῖος” as pertaining to Athens. It emphasizes its use in describing individuals from Athens, such as in historical or scriptural contexts. Thayer’s provides insights into the term’s cultural implications as well.

1. Vine’s Expository Dictionary of New Testament Words:

• Meaning: Vine’s Dictionary describes “Ἀθηναῖος” as referring to people from Athens, highlighting its use to denote the origin or association of individuals with the city. It reflects the term’s relevance in identifying characters or situations related to Athens.

1. BDAG Greek-English Lexicon:

• Meaning: BDAG provides a comprehensive definition of “Ἀθηναῖος,” noting its application as an adjective meaning “Athenian.” It describes the term as indicating a person from Athens, with particular reference to its use in the New Testament to denote Paul’s interaction with Athenian citizens.

1. Liddell-Scott-Jones (LSJ) Greek-English Lexicon:

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• Meaning: LSJ explains “Ἀθηναῖος” as referring to someone from Athens, emphasizing its usage in classical and Hellenistic Greek to identify people associated with the city. The lexicon provides historical context for the term’s use.

Usage in the New Testament:

• Example: In Acts 17:18, Paul is described as engaging with “Ἀθηναῖοι” (Athenians) while in Athens. This term highlights his interaction with the local people of Athens and reflects the city’s significant role in the early Christian narrative.

Summary:
The Greek term “Ἀθηναῖος” (G117) means “Athenian” and is used to denote someone from Athens or associated with the city. According to Strong’s Concordance, Thayer’s Lexicon, Vine’s Dictionary, BDAG, and LSJ, the term signifies an individual’s origin from Athens. It reflects both cultural identity and the context of early Christian interactions, particularly seen in the Apostle Paul’s engagement with the Athenians in Acts 17. The term highlights the importance of Athens in the New Testament as a center of philosophical and cultural significance.