Brief Overview of ἁμαρτωλός (G268)

ἁμαρτωλός (hamartōlos) is a Greek adjective meaning “sinner” or “one who sins.” It comes from the root word ἁμαρτία (hamartia), which means “sin.” The term is used to describe individuals characterized by their sinful nature or actions.

Possible Meanings:

1. Sinner: Primarily refers to someone who commits sins or transgressions.
2. Sinful: It describes the nature or state of being inclined to sin or live a life of transgression.

Detailed Overview with Concordances

1. BDAG (A Greek-English Lexicon of the New Testament and Other Early Christian Literature):

• BDAG defines ἁμαρτωλός as “a sinner” or “one who is sinful.” It is used to describe individuals who commit sins or are characterized by their sinful actions. The lexicon notes that the term can also reflect a general state of sinfulness or moral failure.

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

• LSJ provides the definition of ἁμαρτωλός as “a sinner.” It emphasizes its use in describing someone who has committed sins, with a focus on the individual’s moral condition or behavior.

3. Thayer’s Greek Lexicon:

• Thayer describes ἁμαρτωλός as “sinner” or “one who is guilty of sin.” It highlights its use in the New Testament to denote those who transgress divine laws or moral principles. The lexicon also points out that it can be used more broadly to refer to a person characterized by sinfulness.

4. Strong’s Concordance:

• Strong’s Concordance lists ἁμαρτωλός as meaning “sinner.” It notes its application to those who commit sins or have a nature inclined to sin, reflecting a state of moral or spiritual failing.

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Summary:
ἁμαρτωλός refers to a “sinner” or someone who is characterized by sinful actions or nature. According to BDAG, LSJ, Thayer’s Lexicon, and Strong’s Concordance, the term is used to describe individuals who commit sins or are otherwise marked by a condition of moral failure. It captures both the action of sinning and the broader state of being inclined to sin.