G3816

Unveiling the Word

The Greek word παῖς (pais) translates to “child” or “boy” in English, capturing the essence of youth and innocence. It encompasses a range of meanings, from a young child to a servant, and even a young man in certain contexts. This word is significant in both everyday Greek and biblical texts, where it emphasizes the vulnerability, innocence, and dependence associated with childhood. The biblical usage often points toward themes of faith, humility, and the importance of childlike qualities in spiritual life. In Matthew 2:16, it specifically refers to the young boys in Bethlehem whom King Herod sought to eliminate, highlighting the word’s weight in contexts of protection and sacrifice.

Necessary Information

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Greek Word: παῖς, pronounced [paɪs].

Etymology: The word is rooted in the ancient Greek concept of childhood, which includes not just physical youth but also the behaviors and attributes associated with being a child.

Part of Speech: παῖς is a noun and is typically used in the singular form, but it can also appear in the plural as “παῖδες” (paides), meaning “children.”

Defining Meanings

Child: The primary meaning of παῖς refers to a young child, emphasizing the innocence and vulnerability of youth.

Servant: In some contexts, the term can refer to a servant or slave, particularly a young one, reflecting the social structures of the time.

Young Man: Occasionally, παῖς is used to describe a young man, especially in situations where youthfulness or immaturity is highlighted.

Exploring Similar Words

παιδίον (paidion) [paɪ-dē-on]: This term means “little child” or “infant.” It emphasizes smaller children or toddlers, making it a diminutive form of παῖς.

παίς (pais) [paɪs]: While this is essentially the same word, in some contexts, it can denote a slave or servant, highlighting the diverse usage of the term in different social classes.

παῖς (paidos) [paɪ-dōs]: This variation refers to the genitive case of παῖς, often used to denote possession or relationship, such as “of the child.”

Reviewing the Word’s Morphology

For Nouns:

• Case, Number, Gender: παῖς is a masculine noun that can appear in both singular (παῖς) and plural (παῖδες) forms.

• Declension: It belongs to the third declension, which involves specific endings for different cases (nominative, genitive, dative, accusative).

Studying Lexicon Insights

In various Greek lexicons, παῖς is frequently analyzed within its cultural and theological implications. It is often linked with the themes of faith and humility, particularly in the teachings of Jesus, who highlighted the importance of becoming like children (Matthew 18:3). Its usage in the New Testament indicates the value placed on children within the community and the responsibilities of adults to protect and nurture them. The word reflects not just a physical age but a spiritual state, suggesting that humility and receptivity are virtues to aspire to.

This overview synthesizes insights from BDAG, Thayer’s, LSJ, Vine’s, Strong’s, LEH, and Moulton and Milligan.

Tracing Related Scriptures

Matthew 2:16: “Then Herod, when he saw that he had been deceived by the wise men, was furious, and he sent and killed all the male children [παῖς] who were in Bethlehem and in all that region who were two years old or under.”

Matthew 18:3: “And said, ‘Truly, I say to you, unless you turn and become like children [παῖς], you will never enter the kingdom of heaven.’”

Luke 7:32: “They are like children [παῖς] sitting in the marketplace and calling to one another, ‘We played the flute for you, and you did not dance; we sang a dirge, and you did not weep.’”

Analyzing Classical Usage

Example 1: Plato, The Republic: “They who are guardians must be children [παῖς] in spirit, always learning and never ceasing to question.”

Example 2: Aristotle, Nicomachean Ethics: “The young men [παῖς] should be instructed in virtue and the arts, for their minds are still pliable.”

Example 3: Homer, The Iliad: “Achilles lamented the loss of his young companion, the child [παῖς] of his heart.”

Septuagint Example 1: Exodus 12:26: “And when your children [παῖς] say to you, ‘What do you mean by this service?’ you shall say, ‘It is the sacrifice of the Lord’s Passover.’”

Septuagint Example 2: Genesis 21:4: “And Abraham circumcised his son [παῖς] Isaac when he was eight days old, as God had commanded him.”

Septuagint Example 3: 1 Samuel 3:1: “Now the boy [παῖς] Samuel was ministering to the Lord in the presence of Eli.”

Noteworthy Summary

The term παῖς is rich with cultural and theological significance, emphasizing the importance of childhood, innocence, and humility in biblical narratives. Its implications extend beyond mere age, reflecting the virtues of faith and the responsibilities of adults towards the young.

Did You Know?

1. In ancient Greek culture, children [παῖς] were often regarded as symbols of hope and the future, highlighting their importance in family and society.

2. The New Testament frequently uses the term to illustrate spiritual lessons, emphasizing the need for believers to embody the qualities of a child.

3. The historical context of the term also reflects societal views on children, who were often seen as property or future contributors to the family or household.

Strong’s G3816: παῖς (pais) refers to “child” or “boy,” highlighting themes of innocence and the need for nurturing within both familial and spiritual contexts.