Brief Overview of ζημία (Strong’s G2209: zēmia)

Introduction

Understanding Greek words is fundamental to Biblical studies as it unveils the original meanings, cultural context, and theological significance embedded within the text. The Greek word ζημία (zēmia) is particularly significant as it conveys the idea of loss, damage, or forfeiture. In the New Testament, it often contrasts with gain, symbolizing the spiritual or material loss that comes with certain choices. Understanding the implications of zēmia deepens our comprehension of key Biblical teachings on sacrifice, worldly versus spiritual values, and the cost of discipleship.

Key Information

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• The Greek Word: ζημία, transliterated as zēmia, pronounced [dzay-MEE-ah].
• Etymology: The root word ζημιόω (zēmioō) means “to damage, suffer loss, or forfeit.”
• Part of Speech: Noun (feminine); follows the first declension pattern in Greek grammar.
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Primary Meanings

• Loss: The act or instance of losing something valuable or important.
• Damage: Harm or injury resulting in loss.
• Forfeiture: The act of surrendering or giving up something as a penalty or in exchange for something else.
• Disadvantage: A position of having less than what is needed or expected.

Similar Words: ζημία (zēmia) is related to ζημιόω (zēmioō), meaning “to cause loss” or “to damage.” While zēmia refers to the concept of loss or damage, zēmioō describes the action that results in such a state. Both terms derive from the same root, emphasizing the consequences of choices that lead to loss or forfeiture.

Further Insights: ζημία is a feminine noun that follows the first declension in Greek grammar. It is used in the New Testament to depict various kinds of loss—whether material, social, or spiritual. The word’s declension, shown below, helps understand its grammatical usage in different contexts.

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Lexicon Insights

BDAG: ζημία is defined as “loss” or “forfeiture” and is often used in contexts contrasting with gain, particularly in passages discussing the worth of worldly possessions versus spiritual rewards.

Thayers: Thayer’s Lexicon explains ζημία as “a loss or detriment,” frequently indicating spiritual or moral damage. It points out its use in Paul’s letters, where he speaks of the loss of all things for the sake of Christ.

Vines: ζημία is noted as a word meaning “loss,” especially in the sense of something forfeited or damaged, which is often used metaphorically in the New Testament to indicate a loss of spiritual value.

LSJ: The Liddell-Scott-Jones Lexicon describes ζημία as “loss” or “penalty,” with applications ranging from material damage to metaphorical or spiritual forfeiture.

Strong’s Exhaustive Concordance: Strong’s defines ζημία as “detriment” or “loss” and highlights its figurative use in passages contrasting worldly and spiritual gains, such as Philippians 3:7-8.

Related Scripture References

• Philippians 3:7-8: “But whatever things were gain to me, those things I have counted as loss (ζημία) for the sake of Christ.”
• Acts 27:10: “Men, I perceive that the voyage will certainly be with damage and great loss (ζημία), not only of the cargo and the ship, but also of our lives.”
• Acts 27:21: “Men, you ought to have followed my advice and not to have set sail from Crete and incurred this damage and loss (ζημία).”

Classical Usage

Summary of ζημία (G2209: zēmia)

The Greek word ζημία (zēmia) conveys a sense of loss, damage, or forfeiture, often used to contrast with gain, particularly in spiritual contexts. In the New Testament, zēmia helps to illustrate the cost of discipleship and the value of spiritual over material wealth. This term is crucial for understanding the teachings of Paul and other New Testament writers, who often used it to emphasize the idea of giving up worldly gains for the sake of Christ. Additionally, its usage in classical literature reflects its broader implications in the ancient world, covering physical, social, and spiritual losses.

Did You Know?

• The word ζημία is used in the New Testament to express both physical loss (such as damage to ships) and spiritual loss (such as forfeiting one’s values for worldly gains).
• In Philippians 3:7-8, Paul speaks of counting all things as “loss” (ζημία) for the sake of knowing Christ, showing the value placed on spiritual wealth over material possessions.
• The concept of ζημία was not limited to the New Testament; it appears in various classical Greek texts to describe everything from financial penalties to moral losses.