G1350
δίκτυον
[DEEK-too-on]
Introduction
Understanding Greek words in Biblical studies is crucial for grasping the nuances of the original New Testament text and appreciating the broader cultural and historical contexts in which these words were used. The Greek word δίκτυον (diktuon), often translated as “net” or “fishing net,” is a vivid example. This word provides insight into the daily lives of fishermen in ancient Judea and plays a significant role in several New Testament narratives, especially in the Gospels where Jesus’ disciples, many of whom were fishermen, are depicted. Understanding δίκτυον enriches our interpretation of these texts and offers a window into the socio-economic realities of the time.
Key Information
The Greek word is δίκτυον (diktuon), pronounced [DEEK-too-on].
Its etymology traces back to the root word dike, which means “a throw” or “a cast,” reflecting the action associated with fishing nets being thrown or cast into the water.
δίκτυον is a noun of neuter gender. It belongs to the second declension class in Greek grammar.
The F.O.G Word Choice: Fishing net, net.
Primary Meanings
Fishing Net: The most common meaning of δίκτυον in the New Testament and classical Greek literature is a fishing net. It specifically refers to the type of net used for catching fish, particularly in the context of ancient Judean fishing practices.
Net, Generally: In a broader sense, δίκτυον can denote any net-like structure, such as a mesh or trap, beyond just those used for fishing. This usage is less common but still found in various contexts.
Metaphorical Use: Occasionally, the term is used metaphorically to describe a trap or a snare, implying entanglement or capture beyond the literal sense of a fishing net.
Similar Words
ἁμφίβληστρον (amphiblēstron) [am-FEE-blay-stron]: This word specifically refers to a “casting net,” distinct from δίκτυον, which can refer to any type of net. An ἁμφίβληστρον is thrown from the shore or a boat and is designed to spread out and cover a large area.
σαγήνη (sagēnē) [sah-GAY-nay]: Unlike δίκτυον, which can refer to any net, σαγήνη typically denotes a “dragnet.” It is a large net used by fishermen that is dragged through the water or across the sea floor, capturing everything in its path.
παγίς (pagis) [PAH-gees]: A word used more metaphorically or in a literal sense to mean a “trap” or “snare,” such as those used for hunting birds. Pagis emphasizes the idea of entrapment, while δίκτυον focuses on the physical net structure.
Morphological Features
Case, Number, Gender: δίκτυον is a neuter noun. In the singular, its forms are δίκτυον (nominative/accusative), δικτύου (genitive), and δικτύῳ (dative). In the plural, the forms are δίκτυα (nominative/accusative), δικτύων (genitive), and δικτύοις (dative).
Declension: As a second declension noun, δίκτυον follows the standard patterns for neuter nouns in Ancient Greek:
| Case | Singular | Plural |
|---|---|---|
| Nominative | δίκτυον | δίκτυα |
| Genitive | δικτύου | δικτύων |
| Dative | δικτύῳ | δικτύοις |
| Accusative | δίκτυον | δίκτυα |
Click here for a beginners guide to reading Greek.
Lexicon Insights
In New Testament Greek lexicons, δίκτυον is noted primarily for its literal usage related to fishing nets. This word frequently appears in contexts involving fishermen, such as in the Gospels where Jesus calls His disciples, many of whom were fishermen. The term is deeply connected to themes of provision, sustenance, and, metaphorically, evangelism—reflecting Jesus’ call to “fish for people.” In classical literature, the word is used similarly but may also extend to broader, non-fishing contexts, such as a net used in hunting or warfare. These nuances in usage across different texts and contexts underscore the word’s versatility and rich metaphorical potential, particularly in theological discussions about mission and discipleship.
This overview synthesizes insights from BDAG, Thayer’s, LSJ, Vine’s, Strong’s, LEH, and Moulton and Milligan.
Matthew 4:20: “And immediately they left their nets (δίκτυα) and followed Him.”
John 21:6: “And He said to them, ‘Cast the net (δίκτυον) on the right-hand side of the boat, and you will find a catch.’ So they cast, and then they were not able to haul it in because of the great number of fish.”
Luke 5:4: “When He had finished speaking, He said to Simon, ‘Put out into the deep water and let down your nets (δίκτυα) for a catch.'”1 John 4:8: “Whoever does not love does not know God, because God is love [ἀγάπη].”
Classical Usage
| Author | Name of Work | English Text with Greek Word |
|---|---|---|
| Homer | Iliad | “The fisherman cast his net (δίκτυον) into the sea.” |
| Aristotle | Historia Animalium | “They trap birds using nets (δίκτυα).” |
| Herodotus | Histories | “A net (δίκτυον) was spread to ensnare the enemy.” |
| Septuagint | Ecclesiastes 9:12 | “For man also does not know his time: Like fish caught in a cruel net (δίκτυον).” |
| Septuagint | Amos 4:2 | “He will take you away with fishhooks, and the last of you with fishhooks in a net (δίκτυον).” |
| Septuagint | Isaiah 19:8 | “The fishermen will mourn, and all those who cast a hook into the river will lament, and those who spread nets (δίκτυα) on the waters will languish.” |
Summary of δίκτυον
[DEEK-too-on]
δίκτυον (diktuon) is a versatile Greek word that primarily means “net,” specifically a fishing net, with rich connotations in New Testament texts. It is a neuter noun of the second declension, frequently appearing in narratives involving fishermen, providing not only a literal but also a metaphorical understanding of evangelism and discipleship. Its usage in classical literature and the Septuagint shows a broader application beyond fishing, often symbolizing entrapment or ensnaring.
Did You Know?
δίκτυον is one of the words used in the miraculous catch narratives, emphasizing abundance and divine provision.
The word appears frequently in the context of Jesus’ calling of the first disciples, underlining the transformative nature of His call to “fish for people.”
In classical Greek, δίκτυον was not limited to fishing but was also used for hunting and warfare, demonstrating its broader metaphorical significance in ancient texts.
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