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Introduction
Understanding Greek words is essential for biblical studies because it provides insights into the original meanings and nuances found in ancient texts. The Greek word Ἰάρετ (Iaret) is particularly significant as it appears in genealogical contexts within the New Testament. Exploring the meaning and usage of Ἰάρετ offers a deeper understanding of the historical and cultural layers embedded in the Bible.
Key Information
- The Greek Word: Ἰάρετ, transliterated as Iaret [ee-AH-ret].
- Etymology: Derived from Hebrew origins, likely related to the Hebrew name יֶרֶד (Yered), which means “descent.”
- Part of Speech: Proper noun, masculine; indeclinable.
- The F.O.G Word Choice: Coming Soon.
Primary Meanings
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- Iaret: A proper name mentioned in genealogies, indicating a person in a lineage. It is the Greek transliteration of the Hebrew name Yared.
Similar Words: Ἰάρετ is closely related to other genealogical names, such as Ἰακώβ (Iakob, Jacob) and Ἰωσήφ (Ioseph, Joseph). These names are similarly transliterated from Hebrew into Greek and appear in the biblical genealogies to establish lineage and heritage.
Further Insights: Ἰάρετ is a proper noun used specifically in genealogical contexts, and as such, it is indeclinable. It does not follow standard declension patterns like many Greek nouns. This characteristic simplifies its usage but limits its grammatical flexibility.
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Lexicon Insights
BDAG: Ἰάρετ is identified as a proper name appearing in the genealogy of Jesus Christ. The lexicon does not provide a broader definition as the name is primarily used as an identifier in genealogical records.
Thayers: Thayer’s lexicon notes that Ἰάρετ corresponds to the Hebrew יֶרֶד (Yered) and appears in genealogical lists. It suggests that the significance lies in its place within the lineage rather than any specific meaning attached to the name itself.
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Vines: Vines Expository Dictionary does not provide a separate entry for Ἰάρετ, as it considers it a transliteration of a Hebrew name and not a term with theological or doctrinal significance.
LSJ: The LSJ lexicon identifies Ἰάρετ as a personal name and does not expand on its usage beyond what is presented in biblical genealogies.
Strong’s Exhaustive Concordance: Strong’s Concordance lists Ἰάρετ as G2391 and links it to its Hebrew origin. It identifies the name as one found in genealogies, specifically noting its occurrence in the context of New Testament lineage listings.
Related Scripture References
- Luke 3:37: “The son of Methuselah, the son of Enoch, the son of Jared [Ἰάρετ], the son of Mahalaleel, the son of Cainan.”
Classical Usage
The term Ἰάρετ does not appear widely in classical Greek literature, as it is a transliteration of a Hebrew name specifically tied to biblical texts. Its primary usage is within the Septuagint and early Christian writings that recount biblical genealogies.
| Author | Name of Work | English Text |
|---|---|---|
| Septuagint | Genesis 5:15 | “When Mahalalel had lived sixty-five years, he became the father of Jared (Ἰάρετ).” |
| Septuagint | 1 Chronicles 1:2 | “Kenan, Mahalalel, Jared (Ἰάρετ), Enoch, Methuselah, Lamech.” |
| Septuagint | Jubilees 4:16 (pseudepigrapha) | “And in the days of Jared (Ἰάρετ), Enoch his son was taken up to heaven.” |
Summary of Ἰάρετ (G2391)
The Greek word Ἰάρετ (Iaret) serves as a transliteration of the Hebrew name Yared, used primarily in genealogical records in the Bible. As a proper noun, it is indeclinable and holds significance due to its appearance in the lineage of Jesus Christ, emphasizing the continuity of biblical heritage. While its presence is limited to genealogical contexts, Ἰάρετ remains an essential link in understanding the ancestral lineages recorded in biblical texts.
Did You Know?
- Did You Know? The name Ἰάρετ appears in both the Old Testament genealogies and the New Testament genealogy of Jesus, demonstrating continuity between the Hebrew Scriptures and the Greek New Testament.
- Did You Know? The Hebrew origin of Ἰάρετ (Yared) is derived from the verb יָרַד (yarad), meaning “to descend,” symbolically connecting to the concept of heritage and descent.
This comprehensive overview of Ἰάρετ provides insight into its limited but significant usage in biblical texts and genealogical records, highlighting its importance in tracing lineages and understanding biblical history.
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