Brief Overview of ἑξῆς (Strong’s G1836: hexēs)

Introduction

Understanding Greek words in Biblical studies is vital for grasping the nuances and deeper meanings in Scripture. The Greek word ἑξῆς (hexēs) is significant because it denotes sequential order or continuity, which is often critical for interpreting the flow and structure of Biblical narratives. By examining ἑξῆς in its original context, scholars and students can gain a better understanding of the narrative and theological elements present in the New Testament and other ancient Greek texts.

Key Information

• The Greek Word: ἑξῆς, transliterated as hexēs [hek-SEES]
• Etymology: Derived from the Greek root ἑξ (hex), meaning “six,” but used in an adverbial form that denotes a sequence or following order.
• Part of Speech: Adverb
• The F.O.G Word Choice: Coming Soon.

Primary Meanings

• In order, in sequence
• Next, following

Similar Words: ἑξήκοντα (hexēkonta) [hek-SAY-kon-tah] – While both words derive from the root ἑξ (hex), meaning “six,” ἑξήκοντα refers to the number sixty, whereas ἑξῆς is an adverb indicating a sequence or succession. The context in which these words are used provides different meanings.

Further Insights: The word ἑξῆς functions as an adverb and does not change form according to case, gender, or number, similar to many Greek adverbs. It emphasizes continuity or order in events or actions, making it important for understanding sequential or logical connections in texts.
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Lexicon Insights

BDAG: Indicates that ἑξῆς is used to mean “next in order” or “following,” often appearing in narrative contexts where events are described in a particular sequence. This word emphasizes a chronological or logical progression in storytelling.

Thayers: Describes ἑξῆς as meaning “in order,” “one after another,” or “successively,” highlighting its use in passages where actions or events are to be understood as following each other in a specific order.

Vines: Notes that ἑξῆς is used to mark the “next” or “following” in a sequence, both in a temporal and logical sense. It is important for understanding the flow of narratives or arguments.

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LSJ: Explains ἑξῆς in classical usage as “next in order,” “following,” or “in a row,” and provides examples from various Greek writings where the word indicates sequential order or progression.

Strong’s Exhaustive Concordance: Lists ἑξῆς as an adverb that means “in order” or “next,” showing its importance in indicating continuity or sequence in Biblical texts and classical Greek literature.

Related Scripture References

• Luke 7:11: “Soon afterward [ἑξῆς], Jesus went to a town called Nain, and his disciples and a large crowd went along with him.”
• Acts 21:1: “After we had torn ourselves away from them, we put out to sea and sailed straight to Cos. The next day [ἑξῆς] we went to Rhodes and from there to Patara.”

Classical Usage

Summary of ἑξῆς (G1836: hexēs)

The Greek word ἑξῆς (Strong’s G1836) is an adverb meaning “in order” or “next.” It is used in Biblical and classical Greek contexts to indicate sequence, continuity, or succession, whether referring to events, actions, or logical progressions. By understanding ἑξῆς in its original context, readers can better comprehend the flow of narratives and arguments within the New Testament and ancient Greek literature. The use of ἑξῆς highlights the importance of order and progression in both storytelling and theological discourse.

Did You Know?

The concept of order and sequence, as denoted by words like ἑξῆς, was crucial in ancient Greek philosophy and historiography. Ancient Greek thinkers such as Aristotle often emphasized logical sequences in their writings, reflecting the importance of order in understanding both the natural world and human society. This linguistic insight provides a richer context for interpreting ancient texts, whether philosophical, historical, or scriptural.