Brief Overview of Σαμαρίτης (Strong’s G4541: Samaritēs)

Strong’s G4541: From Σαμάρεια (Samaria), denoting an inhabitant of Samaria. In New Testament usage, represents both an ethnic and religious group distinct from Jews and Gentiles, often used in contexts highlighting Jesus’s ministry of breaking down cultural barriers and extending God’s grace beyond traditional boundaries.

U- Unveiling the Word

The term Σαμαρίτης first appears in Matthew 10:5 as part of Jesus’s initial mission instructions. While initially excluded from the apostles’ early ministry, Samaritans later become key recipients of the gospel, symbolizing the breaking down of religious and ethnic barriers. Jesus’s interactions with Samaritans, particularly in Luke and John, demonstrate God’s inclusive love. Early church fathers saw in this term a reminder that the gospel transcends cultural boundaries. Today, Σαμαρίτης challenges us to overcome prejudice and extend Christ’s love to all people.

N – Necessary Information

• Greek Word: Σαμαρίτης, Samaritēs, /sam-ar-ee’-tace/
• Pronunciation Guide: “sam” (like ‘sam’), “ar” (like ‘are’), “ee” (like ‘ee’), “tace” (like ‘taste’)
• Part of Speech: Noun

Etymology:

• From Σαμάρεια (Samaria)
• Root: שֹׁמְרוֹן (Shomron)
• Suffix: -ίτης (-itēs) indicating inhabitant/member
• Combined meaning: inhabitant of Samaria

D – Defining Meanings

• Inhabitant of Samaria
• Member of Samaritan religious group
• Person of mixed Jewish-Gentile ancestry
• Adherent of Samaritan traditions

For compound words:
Not a compound word, but uses demonym suffix -ίτης

Translation Options:

• “Samaritan” – traditional translation
• “Samarite” – literal transliteration
• “Person from Samaria” – descriptive translation

E – Exploring Similar Words

• Ἰσραηλίτης (Israēlitēs) /is-rah-ale-ee’-tace/ – Israelite See G2475 – parallel formation
• ἐθνικός (ethnikos) /eth-nee-kos’/ – Gentile See G1482 – contrasting group
• Ἰουδαῖος (Ioudaios) /ee-oo-dah’-yos/ – Jew See G2453 – contrasting group

R – Reviewing the Word’s Morphology

Morphological features as a noun:

• Case: Nominative, Genitive, Dative, Accusative
• Number: Singular, Plural
• Gender: Masculine
• Declension: First declension

Example forms:

• Nominative singular: Σαμαρίτης
• Genitive singular: Σαμαρίτου
• Dative singular: Σαμαρίτῃ
• Accusative singular: Σαμαρίτην
• Genitive plural: Σαμαριτῶν

Cross-references:

• Related adjective: Σαμαρειτικός (Samaritan)
• Related feminine: Σαμαρῖτις (Samaritan woman)

S – Studying Lexicon Insights

BDAG emphasizes both ethnic and religious aspects. Thayer’s details historical background. LSJ documents usage in wider literature. Vine’s highlights gospel significance. Strong’s connects to geographical origins. LEH notes Septuagint usage. Moulton and Milligan show social context.

T – Tracing the Scriptures

First appearance:

These twelve Jesus sent out after instructing them: “Do not go in the way of the Gentiles, and do not enter any city of the Samaritans (Matthew 10:5)

Additional References:
Luke 10:33
Luke 17:16
John 4:9
John 8:48

A – Analyzing Classical Usage

N – Noteworthy Summary

The word Σαμαρίτης powerfully demonstrates how King Jesus breaks down cultural and religious barriers. From initial exclusion to ultimate inclusion, Samaritans represent how Christ’s kingdom transcends human prejudices. This proclaims the good news that salvation is available to all people, regardless of ethnic or religious background.

D – Did You Know?

1. Samaritans maintained their own version of the Pentateuch.
2. They considered themselves true followers of Moses.
3. A small community of Samaritans still exists today.

Strong’s G4541: From Σαμάρεια (Samaria), denoting an inhabitant of Samaria. In New Testament usage, represents both an ethnic and religious group distinct from Jews and Gentiles, often used in contexts highlighting Jesus’s ministry of breaking down cultural barriers and extending God’s grace beyond traditional boundaries.

Part of speech: Noun

Tags: Samaritan, ethnic groups, religious identity, cultural barriers, gospel inclusion, Matthew’s Gospel, Luke’s Gospel, John’s Gospel, prejudice, reconciliation​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​