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Introduction
In Biblical studies, understanding Greek words like θαῦμα (thauma) is crucial for gaining deeper insight into the text’s original meaning. The word θαῦμα plays a significant role in New Testament interpretation as it is often associated with miracles, wonders, and events that provoke awe and amazement. Its usage reflects not only the miraculous works of Jesus and the apostles but also provides a glimpse into how ancient Greek culture perceived supernatural or extraordinary occurrences. By studying θαῦμα, one can better appreciate the significance of miraculous events in both the Biblical narrative and the broader context of the ancient world.
Key Information
- The Greek Word: θαῦμα (thauma), [THOW-mah]
- Etymology: Derived from the verb θαυμάζω (thaumazō), which means “to wonder” or “to marvel.”
- Part of Speech: Noun (neuter)
- The F.O.G Word Choice: Coming Soon.
Primary Meanings
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- A wonder, marvel, or something astonishing.
- A miraculous event or occurrence.
- An object of awe, often provoking admiration or fear.
Similar Words: τέρας (teras), [TE-ras] – Another Greek word often translated as “wonder” or “sign,” τέρας refers more specifically to a sign that points to something beyond itself, often with a supernatural implication. While θαῦμα focuses on the marvel or astonishment itself, τέρας implies a sign with a deeper meaning or message.
Further Insights: θαῦμα is a neuter noun used to describe something that causes wonder or amazement. It emphasizes the reaction of the observer rather than the intrinsic nature of the event itself. The noun form can be applied to various contexts, from everyday marvels to divine miracles. Below is the declension of θαῦμα in the singular and plural:
| Case | Singular | Plural |
|---|---|---|
| Nominative | θαῦμα | θαύματα |
| Genitive | θαύματος | θαυμάτων |
| Dative | θαύματι | θαύμασι(ν) |
| Accusative | θαῦμα | θαύματα |
| Vocative | θαῦμα | θαύματα |
Click here for a beginners guide to reading Greek: Understanding Greek Grammar: A Beginner’s Guide.
Lexicon Insights
- BDAG: Defines θαῦμα as “a wonder, something that causes one to marvel or be astonished.” It is used in the context of miracles that provoke admiration or amazement.
- Thayers: Describes θαῦμα as “something that is wonderful, a wonder, marvel,” especially a miraculous event that causes people to wonder or be astonished.
- Vines: Notes that θαῦμα refers to “a wonder” or “marvel,” often linked to extraordinary occurrences that defy natural explanation and compel admiration.
- LSJ: Lists θαῦμα as meaning “a wonder” or “a marvel,” frequently found in both classical and Biblical texts to denote something extraordinary or supernatural.
- Strong’s Exhaustive Concordance: Describes θαῦμα as “a wonder” or “something that causes amazement,” highlighting its use in describing miraculous events that inspire awe.
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Related Scripture References
- Matthew 21:15: “But when the chief priests and the scribes saw the wonderful things [θαύματα] that He did, and the children shouting in the temple, ‘Hosanna to the Son of David,’ they became indignant.”
- Mark 9:39: “But Jesus said, ‘Do not hinder him, for there is no one who will perform a miracle [θαῦμα] in My name, and be able soon afterward to speak evil of Me.’”
- Acts 4:16: “What shall we do with these men? For the fact that a noteworthy miracle [θαῦμα] has taken place through them is apparent to all who live in Jerusalem, and we cannot deny it.”
Classical Usage
| Author | Name of Work | English text |
|---|---|---|
| Herodotus | Histories | “The Egyptians tell many marvels (θαύματα) about the Nile and its source.” |
| Plato | Theaetetus | “Philosophy begins in wonder (θαῦμα), and he who wonders finds himself in a maze of perplexity.” |
| Homer | Iliad | “A great wonder (θαῦμα) came upon them as they saw the gods intervene in the battle.” |
| Septuagint | Exodus 15:11 | “Who is like You, majestic in holiness, awesome in praises, doing wonders (θαυμάτων)?” |
| Septuagint | Psalms 77:14 | “You are the God who works wonders (θαῦμα); You have made known Your strength among the peoples.” |
| Septuagint | Daniel 4:2 | “It seemed good to me to declare the signs and wonders (θαυμάτων) which the Most High God has done for me.” |
Summary of θαῦμα (G2295: thauma)
The Greek word θαῦμα (G2295: thauma) is a noun that signifies a wonder, marvel, or miraculous event that causes astonishment. It is derived from the verb θαυμάζω (thaumazō), meaning “to wonder” or “to marvel.” In the New Testament and other Greek literature, θαῦμα is often used to describe extraordinary events that evoke awe and admiration. The word highlights the observer’s reaction to the miraculous, rather than the miracle’s nature itself. In both the Septuagint and classical Greek literature, θαῦμα emphasizes the divine or supernatural, drawing attention to the power and majesty of God and other divine beings.
Did You Know?
The noun θαῦμα is closely related to the English word “thaumaturgy,” which refers to the performance of miracles or magical feats. In ancient Greek culture, θαῦμα was used not only in religious contexts but also in philosophical and everyday settings to express surprise or awe at natural wonders or human achievements. This word captures the essence of what it means to be amazed by something beyond ordinary experience, whether it be a miraculous healing, a stunning natural phenomenon, or a profound philosophical insight.
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