Brief Overview of ἐρίφιον (Strong’s G2055: eriphion)

Introduction

Understanding Greek words is crucial in Biblical studies as it helps in uncovering the nuanced meanings embedded in the original texts. The Greek word ἐρίφιον (eriphion), which translates to “young goat” or “kid,” is particularly significant due to its metaphorical and literal use in the New Testament. This word helps in interpreting parables and teachings of Jesus, providing insights into sacrificial practices and everyday life in ancient Greek and Jewish cultures.

Key Information

• The Greek Word: ἐρίφιον (eriphion) [eh-REE-fee-on]
• Etymology: Derived from the root word ἔριφος (eriphos), meaning “a young goat” or “kid.”
• Part of Speech: Noun (neuter); second declension.
• The F.O.G Word Choice: Coming Soon.

Primary Meanings

• Young goat: Refers to a juvenile goat, commonly known as a “kid.”
• Metaphorical use: Sometimes used to symbolize stubbornness or sin in biblical texts.
• Sacrificial animal: Often used to describe goats used in sacrifices or religious rituals.

Similar Words: ἀμνός (amnos) [ahm-NOSS] means “lamb” and is also used in the New Testament, particularly to refer to sacrificial lambs. While ἀμνός represents innocence and sacrifice, ἐρίφιον (eriphion) refers specifically to a young goat, which can symbolize stubbornness or rebellion.

Further Insights: The word ἐρίφιον (eriphion) is a neuter noun following the second declension pattern. Its grammatical behavior is consistent with other neuter nouns in Greek. Below is the full declension chart of ἐρίφιον:

Click here for a beginner’s guide to reading Greek.

Lexicon Insights

BDAG: ἐρίφιον is defined as “a young goat” or “kid,” highlighting its use in contexts where sacrificial animals are mentioned. It is often associated with depictions of the “goat” in contrast to the “lamb” in New Testament parables.

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Thayer’s: Describes ἐρίφιον as “a kid, a young goat,” primarily used in parables to symbolize those who are not obedient to God’s commandments, drawing a metaphorical contrast with the lamb.

Vine’s Expository Dictionary: Focuses on the term’s use in passages that depict separation or judgment, where ἐρίφιον represents those who are not among the righteous, emphasizing its symbolic connotations.

LSJ (Liddell-Scott-Jones): Lists ἐρίφιον simply as “young goat” or “kid,” with examples from classical literature that involve both literal descriptions of goats and metaphorical usages related to stubborn or rebellious behavior.

Strong’s Exhaustive Concordance: Defines ἐρίφιον as “kid” or “young goat,” noting its figurative usage in parables, particularly the parable of the Sheep and the Goats, where it serves to illustrate moral and spiritual lessons.

Related Scripture References

• Matthew 25:32-33: “Before him will be gathered all the nations, and he will separate people one from another as a shepherd separates the sheep from the goats [ἐρίφια]. And he will place the sheep on his right, but the goats [ἐρίφια] on the left.”
• Luke 15:29: “But he answered his father, ‘Look, these many years I have served you, and I never disobeyed your command, yet you never gave me a young goat [ἐρίφιον], that I might celebrate with my friends.’”

Classical Usage

Septuagint Examples:

Summary of ἐρίφιον (G2055)

In summary, ἐρίφιον (eriphion) is a Greek noun that means “young goat” or “kid.” It is used in the New Testament to symbolize stubbornness, rebellion, and separation in moral and spiritual contexts. In classical Greek literature, it appears both literally and metaphorically, depicting the characteristics of goats. Understanding this word enhances the interpretation of biblical passages, particularly those involving parables and sacrificial practices, and provides a broader context of its usage in ancient Greek culture.

Did You Know?

Did you know that young goats (ἐρίφιον) were not only common in ancient Greek and Jewish agricultural practices but also held symbolic importance in religious rituals and parables? The contrast between goats and sheep in biblical texts often serves to illustrate spiritual truths about obedience, righteousness, and divine judgment.