Brief Overview of Ἰσκαριώθ (Strong’s G2469: Iskariōth)

Introduction

Understanding Greek words such as Ἰσκαριώθ (Iskariōth) is essential in Biblical studies as it provides deeper insights into the characters and places within the New Testament. Ἰσκαριώθ is significant because it is often associated with Judas Iscariot, a prominent yet controversial figure in the New Testament, whose actions had profound implications on the narrative of the Gospels.

Key Information

• The Greek Word: Ἰσκαριώθ, transliterated as Iskariōth [is-kar-ee-OHTH].
• Etymology: Derived from the Hebrew phrase ‘Ish Q’riyoth, meaning “man of Kerioth,” likely referring to a town in Judea.
• Part of Speech: Proper noun (nominative singular masculine)
• The F.O.G Word Choice: Coming Soon.

Primary Meanings

• Judas Iscariot (a disciple of Jesus)
• Possibly a reference to his hometown, Kerioth.

Similar Words: Ἰσκαριώτης (Iskariōtēs) [is-kar-ee-OH-tees], another form referring to Judas Iscariot, emphasizes his association with the town Kerioth, which adds more specificity to his identity.

Further Insights: The word Ἰσκαριώθ is a proper noun used primarily to identify Judas Iscariot. Morphologically, it follows the typical patterns of Greek nouns for a masculine singular name. The term suggests a geographical connection, likely identifying Judas by his origins, thus differentiating him from other individuals named Judas.
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Lexicon Insights

• BDAG: Notes Ἰσκαριώθ as the surname for Judas, with the suggestion of his origin from Kerioth.
• Thayers: Describes it as referring to “a man of Kerioth,” highlighting its probable geographical association.
• Vines: Identifies it specifically in the context of Judas Iscariot, discussing the various interpretations of the surname.
• LSJ: Acknowledges its use in biblical and historical contexts, particularly to denote a person from Kerioth.
• Strong’s Exhaustive Concordance: Lists it as a proper noun meaning “Iscariot,” with connections to the town of Kerioth.

Related Scripture References

• Matthew 10:4: “Simon the Zealot, and Judas Iscariot [Ἰσκαριώθ], who also betrayed Him.”
• Mark 3:19: “And Judas Iscariot [Ἰσκαριώθ], who also betrayed Him.”
• John 12:4: “But Judas Iscariot [Ἰσκαριώθ], one of His disciples, who was intending to betray Him, said.”

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Classical Usage

Since Ἰσκαριώθ is a unique proper noun with specific biblical references, it is not found in classical Greek texts but is used in Septuagint translations and later Christian writings.

Summary of Ἰσκαριώθ (G2469)

The Greek word Ἰσκαριώθ (Iskariōth) is a proper noun commonly associated with Judas Iscariot, the disciple of Jesus who betrayed him. The term likely denotes his origin from the town of Kerioth in Judea, setting Judas apart from others named Judas in the New Testament. This identification has shaped both the historical and theological interpretations of Judas Iscariot’s role in Christian teachings.

Did You Know?

Did you know that “Iscariot” is often thought to signify “man of Kerioth,” indicating a potential origin from a town in Judea, which would have differentiated Judas from other disciples named Judas?

This overview highlights the importance of understanding the word Ἰσκαριώθ in the context of New Testament studies and its implications for understanding the historical and cultural backdrop of the Gospels.