Introduction
Understanding Greek words like Ἔφεσος (Ephesos, Strong’s G2181) is crucial in Biblical studies, as it provides insight into significant historical and cultural contexts. Ἔφεσος, or Ephesus, was one of the most prominent cities in the ancient world, located in Asia Minor (modern-day Turkey). Ephesus is frequently mentioned in the New Testament as a center for early Christian evangelism, including the apostle Paul’s missionary journeys. Exploring the meaning and usage of Ἔφεσος enhances our comprehension of New Testament writings and the socio-religious landscape of the ancient world.
Key Information
- The Greek Word: Ἔφεσος (Ephesos) [EH-feh-sos]
- Etymology: The origin of the word is uncertain, but it is believed to derive from a pre-Greek or Luwian word meaning “bee” or “honey,” reflecting the city’s rich cultural and religious symbolism.
- Part of Speech: Noun, proper noun (feminine).
- The F.O.G Word Choice: Coming Soon.
Primary Meanings
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- Ephesus: A city in Asia Minor, known as a major center for trade, culture, and religion.
- A prominent city in the Roman province of Asia: Ephesus served as the provincial capital and was famous for its Temple of Artemis, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World.
Similar Words: Ἐφεσῖνος (Ephesinos) [e-fe-SI-nos] and Ἐφέσιος (Ephesios) [e-FE-sios] are adjectives that relate to Ephesus or its inhabitants. While Ἔφεσος refers specifically to the city itself, Ἐφεσῖνος and Ἐφέσιος describe things or people originating from or associated with Ephesus.
Further Insights: The word Ἔφεσος is a proper noun that follows the first declension pattern in Greek. Below is the full declension of Ἔφεσος:
| Case / Number | Feminine Singular |
|---|---|
| Nominative | Ἔφεσος |
| Genitive | Ἐφέσου |
| Dative | Ἐφέσῳ |
| Accusative | Ἔφεσον |
| Vocative | Ἔφεσε |
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Lexicon Insights
- BDAG: Defines Ἔφεσος as “Ephesus,” a prominent city in Asia Minor, known for its large population, strategic location, and the Temple of Artemis. It highlights the city’s role in early Christian history and its significance in Paul’s missionary journeys.
- Thayer’s: Notes that Ἔφεσος refers to the capital of the Roman province of Asia. The lexicon emphasizes Ephesus as a bustling commercial and religious hub during the New Testament period, particularly significant in the spread of early Christianity.
- Vine’s: Discusses Ἔφεσος as a major city of Asia Minor and the center of worship for the goddess Artemis. It explains the strategic importance of Ephesus for the apostles, especially Paul, in the early Christian missionary efforts.
- LSJ: Describes Ἔφεσος as a historic and cultural landmark. The lexicon details the city’s development from ancient times through the Roman period, emphasizing its political, economic, and religious influence.
- Strong’s Exhaustive Concordance: Defines Ἔφεσος as “Ephesus,” focusing on its identity as a leading city in Asia Minor and its frequent mentions in the New Testament.
Related Scripture References
- Acts 18:19 – “And they came to Ephesus [Ἔφεσος], and he left them there. Now he himself entered the synagogue and reasoned with the Jews.”
- Acts 19:1 – “It happened that while Apollos was at Corinth, Paul passed through the upper country and came to Ephesus [Ἔφεσον], and found some disciples.”
- Revelation 2:1 – “To the angel of the church in Ephesus [Ἐφέσῳ] write: The One who holds the seven stars in His right hand, the One who walks among the seven golden lampstands, says this.”
Classical Usage
| Author | Name of Work | English Text |
|---|---|---|
| Herodotus | “Histories” | “In Ephesus [Ἔφεσος], the temple of Artemis stood as a marvel among all wonders of the ancient world.” |
| Strabo | “Geography” | “Ephesus [Ἔφεσος] was not only a great city but also an important religious center, dedicated to Artemis.” |
| Pausanias | “Description of Greece” | “Ephesus [Ἔφεσος], renowned for its magnificent temple, attracts pilgrims from far and wide.” |
| Septuagint | “1 Maccabees 15:23” | “The letters were sent to Ephesus [Ἔφεσος] and other cities for support against their enemies.” |
| Septuagint | “2 Maccabees 4:19” | “The games at Ephesus [Ἔφεσος] were attended by Jews who came from the surrounding regions.” |
| Septuagint | “3 Maccabees 6:1” | “The Jews living in Ephesus [Ἔφεσον] maintained their customs amidst a foreign culture.” |
Summary of Ἔφεσος (G2181: Ephesos)
The Greek word Ἔφεσος (Ephesos, Strong’s G2181) refers to the ancient city of Ephesus, a major hub of culture, religion, and commerce in Asia Minor. This city played a crucial role in early Christian history, serving as a focal point for Paul’s missionary work and the spread of the Gospel. Understanding the historical and cultural significance of Ephesus helps illuminate many New Testament passages and provides a richer context for interpreting the Biblical narrative. The city’s legacy continues to impact religious and historical studies, especially in understanding early Christian communities’ dynamics.
Did You Know?
Did you know that the Temple of Artemis in Ephesus, referred to by the Greek word Ἔφεσος, was considered one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World? This temple was so famous that it became a pilgrimage site for ancient worshippers, rivaling even the pyramids of Egypt in terms of cultural importance.
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