Brief Overview of κεφαλίς (Strong’s G2777: kephalís)

Unveiling the Word

Understanding Greek words in biblical studies is crucial as it helps uncover the depth and nuance of the original texts. The Greek word κεφαλίς (kephalís) is particularly significant in this regard. Appearing in Hebrews 10:7, it holds unique importance in New Testament interpretation, especially concerning the concept of sacred writings and scrolls. In ancient Greek culture, κεφαλίς was a term commonly used to describe the end or extremity of an object, such as a roll or scroll, highlighting its literary and textual applications in historical contexts.

Necessary Information

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Greek Word: κεφαλίς, transliterated as kephalís [keh-fah-LEES].

Etymology: The word κεφαλίς is derived from the Greek word κεφαλή (kephalḗ), meaning “head.” It carries the idea of something that is at the top or the end, reflecting the extremity or the cap of an object. In the context of ancient manuscripts, it refers to the end of a roll or a headpiece, emphasizing its connection to physical and metaphorical “heads” or summits.

Part of Speech: κεφαλίς is a feminine noun. It follows the standard morphological pattern of Greek nouns, showing variations based on case (nominative, genitive, dative, accusative), number (singular, plural), and gender (feminine).

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Defining Meanings

The primary meaning of κεφαλίς is “head” or “extremity,” often referring to the end or top part of something. This could range from the end of a scroll to a headpiece, symbolizing the conclusion or summary of a document.

Another meaning is “a small head” or “a roll of a scroll,” where it metaphorically describes the small knob or handle at the end of a scroll. In this sense, it emphasizes the physical part of ancient writing materials, which were rolled and unrolled by the reader.

The word also conveys the idea of “chapter” or “section” in a broader literary context. It could refer to a distinct part or portion of a text, especially when used in manuscripts or compilations of writings.

Exploring Similar Words

The Greek word ἄκρον (akron) [AH-kron] means “end” or “extremity” but focuses more on the outermost point of a location or object. Unlike κεφαλίς, which has a broader textual application, ἄκρον is more confined to physical and geographical extremities.

Another similar term is τόμος (tomos) [TOH-mos], meaning “volume” or “section.” While it can imply being a part of a larger work, it emphasizes a specific portion of writings rather than the extremity or head of a document.

The word κορυφή (koryphḗ) [kor-ee-FAY], meaning “summit” or “peak,” is also related. It represents the highest point but does not carry the same nuanced application to texts and scrolls as κεφαλίς.

Reviewing the Word’s Morphology

Case, Number, Gender: κεφαλίς is a third-declension noun in Greek, feminine in gender. Its cases vary as follows:

Declension: As shown in the table, κεφαλίς follows the third declension pattern in Greek, which is typical for many feminine nouns.

For a deeper understanding of Greek grammar, Click here for a beginners guide to reading Greek.

Studying Lexicon Insights

Insights from various Greek lexicons show that κεφαλίς has a rich usage history across both biblical and classical texts. In the New Testament, specifically Hebrews 10:7, it is used to describe “the head” or “summary” of the scroll, indicating a textual or literary context. In classical Greek literature, κεφαλίς often refers to a cap or end of an object, such as a helmet or a scroll’s handle, demonstrating its broad semantic range. Theological implications arise in biblical contexts where the term is employed to refer to key sections or summaries of sacred texts, emphasizing the importance of scriptural authority.
This overview synthesizes insights from BDAG, Thayer’s, LSJ, Vine’s, Strong’s, LEH, and Moulton and Milligan.

Tracing Related Scriptures

Hebrews 10:7: “Then I said, ‘Behold, I have come to do Your will, O God, as it is written of me in the scroll [κεφαλίδι] of the book.'” This verse uses κεφαλίς metaphorically to refer to the head or summary of the sacred scroll, emphasizing the fulfillment of God’s will as described in Scripture.

Analyzing Classical Usage

Noteworthy Summary

The Greek noun κεφαλίς (kephalís) is integral in both biblical and classical texts, offering a layered understanding of endings, summaries, and physical components of ancient manuscripts. Its use in the New Testament, particularly in Hebrews, is especially significant for understanding how Scripture was referenced and described in early Christian writings. This multifaceted word helps bridge the gap between physical artifacts of literature and their metaphorical, theological implications, providing a richer context for both scholars and students of the Bible.

Did You Know?

In Greek literature, κεφαλίς was often used metaphorically to indicate the concluding part or summary of an argument or speech, providing clarity to the overall discourse.

The word’s application to scrolls and manuscripts highlights its relevance in ancient library collections, where cataloging and labeling played crucial roles.

In some Christian writings, κεφαλίς also carries the nuance of “summary of divine will,” emphasizing its role in discussing God’s overarching plans as written in sacred texts.