Introduction

Understanding Greek words is crucial in Biblical studies as it helps to unlock the depth and richness of the original texts. The Greek word ἑρμηνεία (hermēneía) is particularly significant because it refers to “interpretation” or “explanation,” concepts that are foundational to both New Testament theology and hermeneutics—the art and science of interpreting scripture. Understanding ἑρμηνεία is essential not only for interpreting the New Testament but also for comprehending how ancient Greek culture approached the understanding of texts, language, and meaning.

Key Information

• The Greek Word: ἑρμηνεία (hermēneía) [her-may-NAY-ah]
• Etymology: Derived from ἑρμηνεύω (hermēneúō), meaning “to interpret” or “to explain,” which is linked to Hermes, the Greek god associated with communication and interpretation.
• Part of Speech: Noun (feminine); first declension.
• The F.O.G Word Choice: Coming Soon.

Primary Meanings

• Interpretation: The act of explaining or translating spoken or written words from one language to another.
• Explanation: The process of making something clear or comprehensible.
• Translation: Rendering a message from one language into another.

Similar Words: ἐξήγησις (exēgēsis) [ex-ay-GAY-sis] also means “explanation” or “interpretation,” especially of texts. However, while ἑρμηνεία (hermēneía) often focuses on translation or interpretation from one language to another, ἐξήγησις (exēgēsis) is more concerned with a detailed, critical explanation of a text.

Further Insights: The noun ἑρμηνεία (hermēneía) follows the first declension pattern for feminine nouns in Greek. Understanding its morphology can enhance comprehension of other related words. Below is the full declension chart for ἑρμηνεία:

Click here for a beginner’s guide to reading Greek.

Lexicon Insights

BDAG: ἑρμηνεία is defined as “interpretation” or “translation.” It is used in contexts where clarity of communication, especially across different languages, is emphasized. The term is especially important in discussing the spiritual gift of interpreting tongues.

Thayer’s: Describes ἑρμηνεία as “interpretation,” particularly in the sense of translating or explaining something that is obscure or not understood. The word is associated with the gift of interpreting spoken languages in the New Testament.

Vine’s Expository Dictionary: Focuses on ἑρμηνεία as meaning “interpretation” or “explanation,” particularly in the context of making something clear that would otherwise be obscure or hidden. It is often linked to the spiritual gift of interpretation of tongues.

LSJ (Liddell-Scott-Jones): Lists ἑρμηνεία as “interpretation,” “explanation,” or “translation,” noting its broad use in both literary and philosophical contexts in classical Greek literature.

Strong’s Exhaustive Concordance: Identifies ἑρμηνεία as “interpretation” or “explanation,” pointing out its usage in discussing the spiritual gift of interpreting tongues. The concordance underscores its importance in understanding early Christian worship practices.

Related Scripture References

• 1 Corinthians 12:10: “To another the working of miracles, to another prophecy, to another the ability to distinguish between spirits, to another various kinds of tongues, to another the interpretation [ἑρμηνεία] of tongues.”
• 1 Corinthians 14:26: “What then, brothers? When you come together, each one has a hymn, a lesson, a revelation, a tongue, or an interpretation [ἑρμηνεία]. Let all things be done for building up.”

Classical Usage

Septuagint Examples:

Summary of ἑρμηνεία (G2058)

In summary, ἑρμηνεία (hermēneía) is a Greek noun meaning “interpretation” or “explanation.” It is used in the New Testament primarily in the context of spiritual gifts, where it refers to the interpretation of tongues. The term also appears in classical Greek literature, where it is associated with the explanation of dreams, omens, and philosophical texts. Understanding the word ἑρμηνεία provides important insights into early Christian practices, hermeneutics, and the broader cultural approaches to interpreting sacred and secular texts in antiquity.

Did You Know?

Did you know that the word ἑρμηνεία (hermēneía) is related to Hermes, the Greek god known as the messenger of the gods and a deity of communication and interpretation? This connection highlights the ancient Greeks’ view of Hermes as a divine intermediary, making ἑρμηνεία a fitting term for describing the act of interpretation or translating messages across different languages and contexts.