Introduction
Understanding Greek words is crucial for in-depth biblical studies, as it provides insight into the original meaning and cultural context of New Testament texts. The Greek word θήκη (thēkē) is particularly significant due to its metaphorical and literal usage in ancient Greek literature, including the New Testament. This word relates to objects designed for storing or containing something, and understanding its use can help clarify certain passages in biblical interpretation.
Key Information
- The Greek Word: θήκη (thēkē) [THAY-kay]
- Etymology: Derived from the root verb τίθημι (tithēmi), meaning “to place” or “to set.” The word θήκη is formed by adding the suffix -η (-ē), which indicates a receptacle or place where something is placed or stored.
- Part of Speech: Noun (Feminine); used to denote a container or receptacle.
- Grammatical Details: First declension noun; characterized by its feminine singular endings.
- The F.O.G Word Choice: Coming Soon
Primary Meanings
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- Receptacle: A container or place where something is stored or kept.
- Case: An object such as a box or chest used to hold something valuable or necessary.
Similar Words: θησαυρός (thēsauros) [thay-SAU-ros] is a related Greek word meaning “treasury” or “storehouse.” While θήκη refers to a more general container or case for keeping items, θησαυρός specifically denotes a place where treasures or valuable items are stored. Another related word is κασσίς (kassis) [kas-SIS], which refers more specifically to a box or chest. κασσίς is used in a more restricted sense compared to θήκη, which can be a broader term for any receptacle.
Further Insights: As a first declension feminine noun, θήκη follows the typical declension pattern in Greek, where endings change depending on the case and number. The declension of θήκη is as follows:
| Case | Singular | Plural |
|---|---|---|
| Nominative | θήκη | θῆκαι |
| Genitive | θήκης | θηκῶν |
| Dative | θήκῃ | θήκαις |
| Accusative | θήκην | θήκας |
| Vocative | θήκη | θῆκαι |
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Lexicon Insights
- BDAG: θήκη is defined as “a receptacle or case,” emphasizing its usage in contexts where something is stored or placed securely. BDAG highlights that the term can refer to both literal and metaphorical containers, depending on the context within the text.
- Thayer’s Lexicon: Thayer’s describes θήκη as “a chest or box,” providing additional context on its usage in literature to denote a container for valuables or necessary items. Thayer’s also mentions its broader use as a metaphor for a place of safekeeping.
- Vine’s Expository Dictionary: Vine’s offers a more nuanced discussion, noting that θήκη can be used metaphorically to signify the “heart” as a repository of emotions, thoughts, or beliefs, reflecting its usage in both biblical and classical texts.
- LSJ (Liddell-Scott-Jones): The LSJ lexicon provides a comprehensive definition of θήκη, from its use as a “box, chest” in everyday contexts to more abstract meanings, such as “repository” or “storehouse,” which could be applied to intangible concepts like knowledge or wisdom in Greek philosophical texts.
- Strong’s Exhaustive Concordance: G2336. Strong’s defines θήκη as “a chest, case, or repository,” noting its application in New Testament contexts as well as in wider Greek literature. Strong’s references emphasize the secure, protective nature of a θήκη.
Related Scripture References
- Luke 19:23: “Wherefore then gavest not thou my money into the bank, that at my coming I might have required mine own with usury?” (θήκη – although not explicitly mentioned as “case” in this verse, the concept of a place for safekeeping is implied).
Classical Usage
| Author | Name of Work | English Text |
|---|---|---|
| Homer | Iliad | “The warriors placed their treasures in a chest (θήκη) for safekeeping.” |
| Herodotus | Histories | “In the center of the city, a great box (θήκη) held the sacred scrolls.” |
| Xenophon | Anabasis | “The leader commanded that the weapons be stored in a secure case (θήκη).” |
| Septuagint – Exodus | Septuagint Translation | “And the ark of the covenant was laid in a special chest (θήκη) within the holy place.” |
| Septuagint – Proverbs | Septuagint Translation | “Wisdom is a treasure that resides not in chests (θήκη) but in the hearts of the wise.” |
| Septuagint – 2 Kings | Septuagint Translation | “The offerings were collected and stored in a box (θήκη) before the altar.” |
Summary of θήκη (G2336)
The Greek noun θήκη (thēkē) primarily means a receptacle or case for storing or keeping objects, such as a box or chest. Its use in both biblical and classical literature spans from literal containers for valuable items to metaphorical repositories of wisdom or emotions. Understanding this word enriches our comprehension of biblical texts and ancient Greek culture, where storage and safekeeping were important both literally and figuratively. The term’s nuanced meanings in different contexts emphasize its flexibility and importance in Greek language and thought.
Did You Know?
The word θήκη is related to the English word “theca,” which is used in biology to refer to a case or sheath enclosing an organ or structure, such as a pollen sac or the outer covering of certain fungi. This connection reflects the idea of θήκη as a protective or containing element, showing how ancient Greek language continues to influence modern scientific terminology.
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