Brief Overview of ἱερατεία (Strong’s G2405: hierateia)

Introduction

Understanding Greek words is essential in Biblical studies for interpreting scripture accurately and gaining a deeper insight into ancient Greek culture. The Greek word ἱερατεία (hierateia) is particularly significant as it relates to the concept of the priesthood in Biblical contexts. This term, used in the New Testament, reflects the cultural and religious structures of ancient societies, offering key insights into the roles, functions, and significance of priesthood both in Jewish and early Christian traditions.

Key Information

• The Greek Word: ἱερατεία, transliterated as hierateia [hee-eh-rah-TAY-ah].
• Etymology: Derived from the root ἱερεύς (hiereus), meaning “priest,” combined with the suffix -εία (-eia), which denotes a state, quality, or office. Therefore, ἱερατεία means “priesthood” or “the office of a priest.”
• Part of Speech: Noun, feminine.
• The F.O.G Word Choice: Coming Soon.

Primary Meanings

• Priesthood: Refers to the office or position of a priest.
• Priestly Service: Refers to the duties, functions, or acts performed by a priest.

Similar Words: ἱερατεία is related to other words that derive from ἱερεύς (hiereus), such as ἱερατεύω (hierateuō), which means “to officiate as a priest,” or ἱερατικός (hieratikos), meaning “priestly” or “pertaining to a priest.” While ἱερατεία specifically refers to the office or function of a priesthood, ἱερατεύω emphasizes the act of performing priestly duties.

Further Insights: ἱερατεία is a feminine noun and follows the standard first declension pattern in Ancient Greek. Below is the declension table:

Click here for a beginners guide to reading Greek: Click here for a beginners guide to reading Greek.

Lexicon Insights

BDAG: Defines ἱερατεία as “priesthood” or “the office of a priest,” particularly in reference to the duties and privileges associated with the Levitical priesthood and its administration in the Jewish temple.

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Thayers: Thayer’s lexicon describes ἱερατεία as “priestly office,” emphasizing its use in the New Testament to denote the institution or order of the priesthood, especially in relation to Jewish religious structures.

Vines: Vines Expository Dictionary elaborates on ἱερατεία by focusing on its specific use for the Levitical priesthood in Jewish tradition, highlighting its sacred responsibilities and rites.

LSJ: The Liddell-Scott-Jones lexicon mentions ἱερατεία as a term for “priesthood,” particularly in ancient Greek literature, where it refers to both the office and function of priests in religious ceremonies and rituals.

Strong’s Exhaustive Concordance: Strong’s defines ἱερατεία (G2405) as “priesthood” or “priest’s office,” providing context for its use in Luke 1:9, where it describes the priestly duties of Zechariah in the temple.

Related Scripture References

• Luke 1:9: “According to the custom of the priestly office [ἱερατεία], he was chosen by lot to enter the temple of the Lord and burn incense.”

Classical Usage

ἱερατεία appears in both classical Greek literature and the Septuagint, primarily to describe priestly roles and functions within various religious contexts. Below are examples from historical references:

Summary of ἱερατεία (G2405)

The Greek word ἱερατεία (hierateia) refers to the priesthood or the office and duties associated with being a priest. It holds significant meaning in the context of Biblical studies as it highlights the structured religious roles within Jewish tradition and early Christian thought. The term also reveals the continuity of sacred duties and the importance of priestly functions in ancient cultures.

Did You Know?

• Did You Know? The term ἱερατεία not only denotes the office of a priest but also the spiritual responsibilities tied to that role, reflecting the sacredness of the priesthood in both Jewish and early Christian contexts.
• Did You Know? In ancient Israel, the priesthood was inherited through the lineage of Aaron, with specific duties performed in the temple, such as burning incense, as mentioned in Luke 1:9.
• Did You Know? The concept of ἱερατεία extends beyond mere title or office; it encompasses a lifelong commitment to serving the divine and the community, as emphasized in Jewish and early Christian writings.

This comprehensive overview of ἱερατεία (hierateia) provides a detailed understanding of its significance in Biblical texts and ancient religious practices, highlighting its cultural and theological importance.