Unveiling the Word
Understanding Greek words is crucial for Biblical studies because it provides depth to our comprehension of New Testament texts and ancient cultural contexts. The Greek word κήρυγμα (kērugma) is particularly significant because it denotes “proclamation” or “preaching.” This term, first found in Matthew 12:41, is foundational for understanding the concept of the Christian gospel being publicly declared. In ancient Greek culture, κήρυγμα also referred to a public announcement made by a herald, highlighting its dual relevance to both religious and secular spheres in antiquity.
Necessary Information
Greek Word: κήρυγμα, transliterated as kērugma [KAY-roog-mah].
Etymology: The word κήρυγμα is derived from the root word κῆρυξ (kērux), which means “herald” or “messenger.” The suffix -μα (-ma) indicates the result or act of the action, so κήρυγμα literally means “the act of proclaiming” or “that which is proclaimed.”
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Part of Speech: κήρυγμα is a neuter noun. It follows the third declension pattern in Greek, showing variations in case (nominative, genitive, dative, accusative) and number (singular, plural).
The F.O.G Word Choice: Coming Soon.
Defining Meanings
The primary meaning of κήρυγμα is “proclamation” or “preaching,” specifically referring to a public announcement or declaration. In the New Testament, it is often associated with the preaching of the gospel or the message of salvation.
Another meaning of κήρυγμα is “that which is proclaimed,” focusing on the content of the message itself. This emphasizes not just the act of proclaiming but also the importance and authority of the message delivered by a herald or preacher.
Exploring Similar Words
The word εὐαγγέλιον (euangelion) [yoo-an-GHEL-ee-on], meaning “good news” or “gospel,” is closely related to κήρυγμα but focuses more on the content of the message, specifically the good news of Christ’s life, death, and resurrection.
Another similar term is διδαχή (didachē) [dee-dah-KHAY], meaning “teaching.” While διδαχή focuses on instruction or doctrine, κήρυγμα emphasizes the act of publicly proclaiming or heralding a message.
The word λόγος (logos) [LO-gos], meaning “word” or “reason,” can also overlap with κήρυγμα, especially when it comes to the content of the proclamation. However, λόγος has a broader application, including reason, speech, and discourse.
Reviewing the Word’s Morphology
Case, Number, Gender: κήρυγμα is a neuter noun and follows the third declension pattern in Greek grammar. Its declension is as follows:
| Case / Number | Singular | Plural |
|---|---|---|
| Nominative | κήρυγμα | κηρύγματα |
| Genitive | κηρύγματος | κηρυγμάτων |
| Dative | κηρύγματι | κηρύγμασι(ν) |
| Accusative | κήρυγμα | κηρύγματα |
Declension: As shown above, κήρυγμα follows the third declension pattern for neuter nouns in Greek.
For a more comprehensive understanding of Greek grammar, Click here for a beginners guide to reading Greek.
Studying Lexicon Insights
The word κήρυγμα is used in the New Testament to denote the preaching or proclamation of the gospel. It is often associated with the apostolic message that declares the life, death, and resurrection of Jesus Christ as the foundation of Christian faith. In classical Greek contexts, κήρυγμα refers to an official announcement made by a herald, signifying its role in communicating important messages, both secular and sacred. Theological implications of κήρυγμα are vast, emphasizing the authoritative and divinely sanctioned nature of the gospel message. This overview synthesizes insights from BDAG, Thayer’s, LSJ, Vine’s, Strong’s, LEH, and Moulton and Milligan.
Tracing Related Scriptures
Matthew 12:41: “The men of Nineveh shall rise in judgment with this generation, and shall condemn it: because they repented at the preaching [κήρυγμα] of Jonah; and, behold, a greater than Jonah is here.”
Mark 16:20: “And they went forth, and preached [κήρυγμα] everywhere, the Lord working with them, and confirming the word with signs following. Amen.”
1 Corinthians 1:21: “For after that in the wisdom of God the world by wisdom knew not God, it pleased God by the foolishness of preaching [κήρυγμα] to save them that believe.”
Analyzing Classical Usage
| Author | Name of Work | Text Excerpt |
|---|---|---|
| Herodotus | Histories | “The κήρυγμα (proclamation) was issued to all citizens to attend the assembly without delay.” |
| Xenophon | Anabasis | “The soldiers awaited the κήρυγμα (proclamation) of their leader to know their next steps.” |
| Septuagint | Jonah 3:4 | “Jonah began to go into the city, a day’s journey, and he called out, ‘Yet forty days, and Nineveh shall be overthrown!’ [κήρυγμα].” |
Noteworthy Summary
The Greek word κήρυγμα (kērugma) captures the essence of proclamation and preaching, particularly within the context of the Christian gospel. With roots in ancient Greek culture as a public announcement, κήρυγμα in the New Testament takes on a deeply theological significance, representing the authoritative message of salvation through Jesus Christ. Its use by heralds in both secular and sacred contexts highlights its importance as a vehicle for divine and public communication.
Did You Know?
The word κήρυγμα was often used in ancient Greece for proclamations made in public squares, similar to announcements today over loudspeakers or on public bulletins.
In early Christian communities, the act of κήρυγμα was central to spreading the faith and establishing the church, with the apostles often described as engaging in κήρυγμα.
The term is sometimes translated as “preaching,” but its roots emphasize the declarative and authoritative nature of the message rather than just the act of speaking or teaching.
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