Introduction:

In Biblical studies, understanding the Greek word εἰκών (eikṓn) is essential for grasping the theological concepts that underpin New Testament teachings. The term εἰκών, meaning “image” or “likeness,” is deeply rooted in the Greek language and culture, influencing how early Christians understood their relationship with God, Jesus Christ, and the concept of divine representation. This word appears in key New Testament passages that discuss the nature of Christ, the image of God in humanity, and the ethical implications of being conformed to that image. By exploring εἰκών, we can better appreciate its significance in both the ancient world and Christian theology.

Key Information:

• Greek Word: εἰκών (eikṓn) [ay-KOHN]
• Etymology: Derived from the verb εἴκω (eíkō), meaning “to be like” or “to resemble,” indicating a representation or likeness.
• Part of Speech: Noun (feminine, third declension)
• The F.O.G Word Choice: Coming Soon

Primary Meanings:

• Image
• Likeness
• Representation, especially in a spiritual or symbolic sense

Similar Words:

• ὁμοίωμα (homóiōma) [ho-MOY-oh-mah]: A noun meaning “likeness” or “form,” often used to describe a similarity in appearance or nature.
• μορφή (morphḗ) [mor-FAY]: Meaning “form” or “shape,” this word emphasizes the external appearance or structure, but can also imply the inherent nature or essence.
• τύπος (týpos) [TOO-pos]: Translated as “type” or “model,” this word refers to a pattern or example that others are meant to follow or resemble.

Further Insights:

• Morphology:
• εἰκών is a feminine noun that follows the third declension pattern in Greek. It is used to denote an image or representation, particularly in a spiritual or metaphorical context.
• Noun Declension: As a third declension noun, εἰκών exhibits variations based on case and number.

Lexicon Insights:

BDAG:
BDAG defines εἰκών as “image” or “likeness,” emphasizing its use in the New Testament to describe the relationship between Christ and God, as well as between believers and Christ. The lexicon notes that εἰκών often carries a deeper, spiritual meaning beyond mere physical resemblance.

Thayer’s:
Thayer’s lexicon highlights that εἰκών refers to an image or representation that mirrors the reality of the original. Thayer’s points out that this word is used to describe Christ as the image of God and believers as being conformed to the image of Christ.

Vine’s:
Vine’s Expository Dictionary discusses εἰκών in the context of its theological significance, particularly in passages like Colossians 1:15, where Christ is described as the “image of the invisible God.” Vine’s emphasizes that εἰκών implies not only a visual likeness but also a reflection of character and nature.

LSJ (Liddell-Scott-Jones):
The LSJ lexicon traces εἰκών to its classical Greek roots, where it was used to describe statues, portraits, and other representations of people or deities. The lexicon notes that in philosophical and religious contexts, εἰκών could also signify a more abstract likeness or reflection of a higher reality.

Strong’s Exhaustive Concordance:
Strong’s Concordance lists εἰκών as a noun meaning “image” or “likeness,” noting its use in the New Testament to describe both physical and spiritual representations. Strong’s highlights its importance in understanding key theological concepts, particularly in the Pauline epistles.

Scripture References:

• Colossians 1:15: “He is the image (εἰκών) of the invisible God, the firstborn of all creation.”
• Romans 8:29: “For those whom he foreknew he also predestined to be conformed to the image (εἰκών) of his Son.”
• 2 Corinthians 4:4: “In their case the god of this world has blinded the minds of the unbelievers, to keep them from seeing the light of the gospel of the glory of Christ, who is the image (εἰκών) of God.”

Classical Usage:

Summary of εἰκών (G1504: eikṓn)

The Greek word εἰκών (eikṓn), meaning “image” or “likeness,” holds a central place in both the New Testament and classical Greek literature. In the New Testament, εἰκών is used to describe the relationship between Christ and God, emphasizing that Christ is the visible representation of the invisible God. It also refers to the transformative process in believers, who are called to be conformed to the image of Christ. Understanding εἰκών provides valuable insights into early Christian theology, particularly regarding the nature of divine representation and the moral implications of reflecting God’s image in the world.

Did You Know?

The concept of εἰκών was not only important in religious contexts but also played a significant role in ancient Greek art and philosophy. Greek artists and sculptors were highly skilled in creating εἰκόνες—statues and images that captured the likenesses of gods, heroes, and prominent figures. In philosophy, the idea of εἰκών extended to abstract representations, where images were seen as reflections or manifestations of deeper truths. This duality of meaning—both physical and spiritual—continues to influence Christian theology and iconography today.