Brief Overview of θυμιατήριον (Strong’s G2369: thymiaterion)

Introduction

Understanding Greek words in biblical studies is crucial for interpreting the New Testament and grasping the cultural and religious nuances of ancient Greek society. The Greek word θυμιατήριον (thymiaterion), meaning “censer” or “altar of incense,” is particularly significant in both Jewish and early Christian contexts. This term is closely related to worship practices and the symbolism of prayers rising to God, as seen in the imagery used in the Book of Revelation and the Epistle to the Hebrews.

Key Information

• The Greek Word: θυμιατήριον (thymiaterion) [thy-mee-ah-TAY-ree-on]
• Etymology: Derived from θυμίαμα (thymiama), meaning “incense,” which in turn comes from θύω (thyo), meaning “to burn” or “to sacrifice.”
• Part of Speech: Noun, Neuter (second declension).
• The F.O.G Word Choice: Coming Soon.

Primary Meanings

• A censer, a vessel for burning incense.
• An altar of incense, a place where incense is burned during religious ceremonies.

Similar Words: θυσιαστήριον (thysiastērion) [thy-see-as-TAY-ree-on] refers to the “altar” in general, where sacrifices or offerings are made. While θυμιατήριον specifically denotes an “altar of incense” or a “censer” for burning incense, θυσιαστήριον is broader, often used for altars where both incense and animal sacrifices occur.

Further Insights: θυμιατήριον is a neuter noun of the second declension, commonly appearing in the dative case to denote the location or instrumentality of an action. The word highlights the connection between the physical act of burning incense and the symbolic representation of prayers ascending to heaven. Here is the declension table for θυμιατήριον:

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Lexicon Insights

BDAG: Describes θυμιατήριον as a censer or an altar of incense, emphasizing its ritual use in both Jewish temple worship and early Christian liturgies. It also highlights the word’s metaphorical use as a symbol for prayers ascending to God, especially in the context of Hebrews 9:4.

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Thayers: Defines θυμιατήριον as “a place for burning incense,” often referring to the golden altar located in the Holy of Holies of the tabernacle or temple. Thayer’s lexicon also notes its New Testament appearances, primarily in the Epistle to the Hebrews.

Vines: Focuses on the theological significance of θυμιατήριον as representing the prayers of the saints. The term is commonly associated with the incense used in the Jewish temple rituals and its adoption in Christian practices.

LSJ: Points out that θυμιατήριον was used broadly in ancient Greek literature to denote any vessel or place where incense is burned, whether in secular or religious contexts. The lexicon also highlights its usage in the Septuagint and other Hellenistic Jewish writings.

Strong’s Exhaustive Concordance: Defines θυμιατήριον as a “censer” or an “altar of incense.” Strong’s emphasizes its liturgical function, particularly in passages that deal with the tabernacle or temple rituals, such as Hebrews 9:4.

Related Scripture References

• Hebrews 9:4 – “Having a golden altar of incense [θυμιατήριον] and the ark of the covenant covered on all sides with gold, in which was a golden jar holding the manna, and Aaron’s rod which budded, and the tablets of the covenant.”
• Revelation 8:3 – “Another angel came and stood at the altar, holding a golden censer [θυμιατήριον]; and much incense was given to him, so that he might add it to the prayers of all the saints on the golden altar which was before the throne.”

Classical Usage

Summary of θυμιατήριον (G2369)

θυμιατήριον (thymiaterion) is a word of significant religious and liturgical importance in both Jewish and early Christian contexts. It denotes a “censer” or “altar of incense,” where fragrant offerings were made as symbols of prayer and supplication. This word is especially prominent in Hebrews and Revelation, where it serves as a symbolic element in worship and divine communication. Its usage in the Septuagint and other Hellenistic Jewish writings further underscores its importance in understanding ancient worship practices and theological concepts.

Did You Know?

In ancient Greek and Jewish worship, the θυμιατήριον was not just a liturgical tool but also a symbol of purification and divine presence. The fragrance of incense was believed to carry prayers to heaven, creating a bridge between the earthly and divine realms. In the Book of Revelation, the imagery of the golden censer filled with incense symbolizes the prayers of the saints rising to God, reflecting an enduring tradition that transcended from Jewish to early Christian worship practices.