Brief Overview of κύριος (Strong’s G2962: kyrios)

Unveiling the Word

Understanding Greek words in Biblical studies is crucial because it reveals deeper layers of meaning and context that can be lost in translation. The word κύριος (kyrios) is particularly significant as it is one of the most frequently used terms in the New Testament, appearing over 700 times. It carries meanings ranging from “lord” to “master” and is often used to refer to both human authority figures and divine entities, including God and Jesus Christ. In the New Testament, understanding the nuances of κύριος provides insight into early Christian theology, Christology, and social structures within the Greco-Roman world.

Necessary Information

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Greek Word: κύριος (kyrios) [KEE-ree-os]

Etymology: The term κύριος originates from the Greek root κυρ- (kyr-), which means “power” or “authority.” The word is related to κῦρος (kŷros), signifying might or strength. As such, κύριος conveys the idea of someone who holds authority or command, whether over people, property, or spiritual realms.

Part of Speech: Noun. κύριος is a masculine noun that primarily functions to denote an individual with authority or control. It can also function as an adjective when used in compound words or phrases. In its noun form, it follows the second declension pattern in Greek grammar.

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Defining Meanings

Meaning 1: Lord or Master
The primary meaning of κύριος is “lord” or “master,” indicating one who possesses authority over others. This term is often used to refer to a sovereign, such as a king, or a master in a household setting who exercises control over servants or slaves.

Meaning 2: Owner or Proprietor
Another meaning of κύριος involves being the owner or proprietor of property. This usage emphasizes legal ownership and the authority that comes with it, particularly in contexts where one has control over land, goods, or possessions.

Meaning 3: Divine Title for God or Christ
In the New Testament, κύριος is frequently used as a divine title for God or Jesus Christ, highlighting their supreme authority and lordship over all creation. This usage is especially significant in early Christian confessions and liturgical expressions where Jesus is acknowledged as “Lord” (Kyrios), aligning with Old Testament references to Yahweh.

Exploring Similar Words

δεσπότης (despotēs) [des-PO-tees]: This word also means “lord” or “master,” but with a more emphatic connotation of absolute authority or control. It is often used in contexts where the master’s power is unquestioned, such as in descriptions of God’s sovereignty.

ἄρχων (archōn) [AR-khown]: Meaning “ruler” or “leader,” this term implies one who leads or governs, often with a focus on public office or civic duty, rather than personal ownership or mastery.

οἰκοδεσπότης (oikodespotēs) [oy-ko-des-PO-tees]: Literally meaning “master of the house,” this word combines the idea of household authority with governance, emphasizing a more localized or specific form of lordship.

Reviewing the Word’s Morphology

For Nouns/Adjectives:

• Case, Number, Gender: As a masculine noun, κύριος can appear in various cases (nominative, genitive, dative, accusative) and numbers (singular, plural) depending on its syntactical role in a sentence.
• Declension: κύριος follows the second declension pattern. Here is a declension table for the word in the singular form:

For more information on Greek nouns, Click here for a beginners guide to reading Greek.

Studying Lexicon Insights

The word κύριος is understood differently across various contexts in both New Testament and classical Greek literature. It is not merely a term for authority but also reflects relational dynamics—such as the relationship between a master and servant, a ruler and subjects, or God and humanity. Theologically, it conveys the divinity of Christ and the allegiance of believers to their divine Lord. In classical Greek texts, it is used for gods, kings, and authoritative figures, further emphasizing its versatility and depth.

This overview synthesizes insights from BDAG, Thayer’s, LSJ, Vine’s, Strong’s, LEH, and Moulton and Milligan.

Tracing Related Scriptures

Matthew 1:20: “But as he considered these things, behold, an angel of the Lord [κύριος] appeared to him in a dream, saying, ‘Joseph, son of David, do not fear to take Mary as your wife…'”
Luke 1:43: “And why is this granted to me that the mother of my Lord [κύριος] should come to me?”
Romans 10:9: “If you confess with your mouth that Jesus is Lord [κύριος] and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved.”

Analyzing Classical Usage

Noteworthy Summary

The Greek word κύριος (kyrios) is a powerful and multifaceted term used in both secular and sacred contexts to denote authority, ownership, and divinity. In Biblical literature, it serves as a key descriptor of God and Christ, revealing both their roles and relationships with humanity. Its rich history in classical literature also emphasizes its importance in understanding cultural and theological developments.

Did You Know?

• Did you know? The term κύριος is used in the Septuagint to translate the Hebrew name Yahweh, emphasizing the divine authority of God.
• Did you know? Early Christians proclaimed “Jesus is Lord” as a declaration of faith that defied Roman political power, where only Caesar was seen as “Lord.”
• Did you know? In Greek household settings, the κύριος was not only the master but also the protector and provider, giving further depth to its New Testament applications to Christ.