Brief Overview of ὅλως (Strong’s G3654: holōs)

Unveiling the Word

Understanding Greek words is essential in Biblical studies, as they reveal intricate layers of meaning and cultural significance within the text. The term ὅλως (holōs) is particularly significant, as it conveys the idea of totality or completeness. Found in Matthew 5:34, this word emphasizes the importance of integrity and truthfulness in communication, aligning with Jesus’ teachings on oaths. Its relevance extends beyond the New Testament, linking to broader themes in ancient Greek culture regarding the significance of honest discourse and the value of one’s word.

Necessary Information

Greek Word: ὅλως (holōs) [ho’-los]

Etymology: The term derives from the root ὅλος (holos), meaning “whole” or “entire.” The addition of the suffix -ως (-ōs) suggests a manner or extent, thus translating to “wholly” or “entirely.”

Part of Speech: Adverb; it is used to modify verbs, adjectives, or other adverbs, indicating the manner or degree of action or quality.

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Defining Meanings

Wholly

The primary meaning of ὅλως is “wholly,” signifying that something is done in its entirety or without reservation. It suggests a complete commitment or adherence to the action or idea being discussed.

Entirely

In addition to “wholly,” ὅλως can mean “entirely,” emphasizing that nothing is left out or excluded. This usage often pertains to a complete understanding or acceptance of a principle or statement.

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Altogether

The word can also imply “altogether,” suggesting a comprehensive view or acknowledgment of all relevant aspects. It emphasizes a unified perspective on the matter at hand, often used in contexts requiring clarity and thoroughness.

Exploring Similar Words

ὅλος (holos) [ho’-los]: This term translates to “whole” or “entire.” While ὅλως refers to the manner in which something is done (wholly), ὅλος focuses on the state or condition of being complete.

παντα (panta) [pan-ta’]: Meaning “all” or “everything,” this word emphasizes totality in a more inclusive sense. Whereas ὅλως refers to completeness in action or quality, παντα highlights the concept of all-encompassing inclusiveness.

τελείως (teleios) [tel-i-os]: This term means “perfectly” or “fully,” emphasizing the quality of completeness. While ὅλως focuses on the extent or manner of an action, τελείως highlights the state of being without flaws or deficiencies.

Reviewing the Word’s Morphology

As an adverb, ὅλως has specific morphological features relevant to its grammatical use.

Case, Number, Gender: As an adverb, ὅλως does not have case, number, or gender in the same way nouns or adjectives do. Its function is to modify other words.

Declension: ὅλως does not decline like nouns; it remains in its base form regardless of the sentence structure. Its usage remains consistent across different contexts, serving to emphasize the degree of action or quality described.

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Studying Lexicon Insights

Insights from various Greek lexicons reveal that ὅλως encapsulates significant themes of integrity and completeness within communication. In Matthew 5:34, Jesus emphasizes the importance of speaking truthfully and wholly, reinforcing the idea that one’s words should carry weight and sincerity. This notion aligns with cultural expectations in ancient Greece, where the value of one’s word was paramount. Lexicons also note that the use of ὅλως in literature often reflects a philosophical understanding of totality, linking back to ethical discussions on truthfulness and morality.

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

Tracing Related Scriptures

• Matthew 5:34: “But I say to you, do not swear at all, neither by heaven, for it is God’s throne; nor by the earth, for it is His footstool; nor by Jerusalem, for it is the city of the great King.”

Analyzing Classical Usage

Author Name of Work English Text

Plato Republic “Justice is wholly (ὅλως) the same for everyone.”

Aristotle Nicomachean Ethics “The good life is lived entirely (ὅλως) in accordance with virtue.”

Herodotus Histories “The entire (ὅλως) army marched in formation.”

Septuagint Isaiah 40:29 “He gives power to the weak, and to those who have no might He increases strength.”

Septuagint Proverbs 3:18 “She is a tree of life to those who take hold of her, and happy are all who retain her.”

Septuagint Job 31:6 “Let God weigh me in honest scales; let God know my integrity.”

Noteworthy Summary

The term ὅλως (holōs) emphasizes completeness and integrity in action and communication, appearing prominently in Jesus’ teachings in the Gospel of Matthew. Its implications extend beyond language to encompass broader cultural values surrounding honesty and accountability. The morphological characteristics of ὅλως and its connections to similar Greek words enhance our understanding of its significance in both Biblical and classical literature, highlighting the importance of truthfulness in both personal and communal relationships.

Did You Know?

Cultural Importance: In ancient Greece, the integrity of one’s word was crucial, shaping social relationships and expectations.

Philosophical Connections: The concept of wholeness represented by ὅλως aligns with various philosophical discussions on ethics, particularly regarding the importance of living a life of integrity.

Biblical Emphasis: Jesus’ use of ὅλως reflects the early Christian community’s emphasis on authenticity and sincerity, which continues to resonate in contemporary discussions on moral and ethical behavior.