Introduction

In Biblical studies, understanding Greek words is vital to accurately interpreting the New Testament and appreciating the depth of ancient Greek culture. The Greek word ἥμισυς (hēmisys) is particularly significant as it refers to a concept that is foundational both mathematically and metaphorically—meaning “half” or “one-half.” This word provides insight into the way ancient Greeks perceived and expressed fractions, portions, and divisions. In the New Testament, understanding this word helps clarify passages that deal with measurements, time, and the allocation of resources.

Key Information

• The Greek Word: ἥμισυς (hēmisys), pronounced [HAY-mee-soos].
• Etymology: Derived from the Greek root ἡμισῠ- (hēmi-), meaning “half,” related to the Proto-Indo-European root semi-.
• Part of Speech: Adjective; it is a compound and varies in form depending on its usage (neuter: ἥμισυ, feminine: ἡμίσεια).
• The F.O.G Word Choice: Coming Soon.

Primary Meanings

• Half: Used to denote one half of a whole.
• One-half of a quantity or time: Indicates an equal division into two parts.

Similar Words: ἡμιώριον (hēmiōrion), pronounced [hay-mee-O-ree-on], is another Greek word meaning “half an hour.” It specifies a precise division of time, whereas ἥμισυς (hēmisys) can refer to half of any entity or amount.

Further Insights: ἥμισυς (hēmisys), as an adjective, is primarily used to modify nouns to indicate one half of a particular object or quantity. It is a descriptive term that can take on different forms depending on gender, number, and case. Below is the declension chart for the adjective:

Click here for a beginners guide to reading Greek.

Lexicon Insights

BDAG: ἥμισυς (hēmisys) is listed as meaning “half” and is often used in Greek literature and mathematical texts to denote a division of something into two equal parts.

Thayers: Thayer’s Lexicon identifies ἥμισυς (hēmisys) as an adjective commonly found in the Septuagint and classical Greek texts. It conveys the idea of something being incomplete or divided into two.

Vines: Vine’s Expository Dictionary of New Testament Words mentions ἥμισυς (hēmisys) in the context of passages dealing with time and measurement, highlighting its importance in quantifying half of a duration or quantity.

LSJ: The Liddell-Scott-Jones Lexicon describes ἥμισυς (hēmisys) as a versatile word that appears in a wide range of Greek literature from mathematical works to poetry, used to describe halves of tangible objects or abstract concepts.

Strong’s Exhaustive Concordance: Strong’s Concordance lists ἥμισυς (hēmisys) under G2255 and translates it as “half,” emphasizing its role in indicating a division of something into two equal portions.

Related Scripture References

• Revelation 8:1: “When He opened the seventh seal, there was silence in heaven for about half (ἥμισυ) an hour.”
• Mark 6:23: “And he swore to her, ‘Whatever you ask of me, I will give you, up to half (ἥμισυ) of my kingdom.'”

Classical Usage

Summary of ἥμισυς (G2255: hēmisys)

The Greek word ἥμισυς (hēmisys) is an adjective that means “half” and is used to describe the division of an object, quantity, or time into two equal parts. It is essential in both New Testament passages and classical Greek literature to convey the idea of a balanced division. The word’s presence in both mathematical and narrative contexts highlights its versatility and importance in expressing fractions or portions. In Biblical studies, understanding ἥμισυς (hēmisys) is crucial for interpreting verses that deal with measures, allocations, or divisions.

Did You Know?

• The word ἥμισυς (hēmisys) is related to the English prefix “semi-,” which also denotes half, as seen in words like “semicircle.”
• In ancient Greek mathematics, ἥμισυς (hēmisys) was frequently used to discuss geometric properties, proportions, and ratios.
• The concept of “half” was not only significant in a mathematical sense but also in ethical discussions, where justice and fairness often involved an equitable division or sharing.

Understanding ἥμισυς (hēmisys) gives us deeper insight into both the mathematical and philosophical thought of ancient Greek culture and helps clarify Biblical passages involving portions and measurements.