Brief Overview of Σκύθης (Strong’s G4658: Skythēs)

Strong’s G4658: A noun referring to a Scythian, a member of nomadic tribes north of the Black Sea. In ancient Greek culture, Scythians represented the epitome of barbarism. Paul uses this term in Colossians to emphasize that all cultural barriers are abolished in Christ.

U- Unveiling the Word

Σκύθης represents more than just an ethnic designation in the New Testament context. In Greco-Roman culture, Scythians were considered the most barbaric and uncivilized of all peoples, often used as the ultimate example of cultural otherness. Paul’s inclusion of this term in Colossians 3:11 carries profound theological significance, emphasizing that even those considered most “outside” human civilization are welcomed into Christ’s body. Early church fathers used this reference to demonstrate the universal scope of the Gospel. Today, it remains a powerful reminder that no cultural, ethnic, or social barriers exist in Christ.

N – Necessary Information

• Greek Word: Σκύθης, Skythēs, /skoo’-thace/
• Detailed pronunciation: ‘skoo’ as in “school,” ‘thace’ as in “face” with ‘th’ sound
• Part of Speech: Noun (Masculine)

Etymology:

• Root: Σκυθ- (Skyth-) – possibly from Proto-Indo-European root referring to archer or shooter
• Suffix: -ης (-ēs) – common Greek masculine noun ending
• Name likely derived from their reputation as skilled archers

D – Defining Meanings

• A Scythian (member of Scythian tribes)
• Representative of utmost barbarism
• Cultural outsider or uncivilized person

For compound words: Not a compound word, but an ethnonym

Translation Options:

• “Scythian” – Direct transliteration preserving historical context
• “Barbarian” – Captures cultural connotation
• “Ultimate outsider” – Conveys social significance in context

E – Exploring Similar Words

• βάρβαρος (barbaros) /bar’-bar-os/ – foreigner, non-Greek speaker See G915
• ἔθνος (ethnos) /eth’-nos/ – nation, people group See G1484
• ἀλλογενής (allogenēs) /al-log-en-ace’/ – foreigner, of another race See G241

R – Reviewing the Word’s Morphology

As a masculine noun:

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

Examples:

• Nominative: Σκύθης (a Scythian)
• Genitive: Σκύθου (of a Scythian)
• Dative: Σκύθῃ (to/for a Scythian)
• Accusative: Σκύθην (Scythian as object)

S – Studying Lexicon Insights

BDAG emphasizes the cultural stereotype of Scythians as ultimate barbarians. Thayer’s notes their reputation for savagery. LSJ provides extensive classical references depicting Scythian customs. Vine’s highlights Paul’s use to show Christ’s abolition of cultural barriers. Strong’s connects it to ancient nomadic peoples. Moulton and Milligan document its use as a byword for uncivilized behavior. LEH notes its rare appearance in Jewish literature.

T – Tracing the Scriptures

First appearance:
“Where there is neither Greek nor Jew, circumcision nor uncircumcision, Barbarian, Scythian [Σκύθης], bond nor free: but Christ is all, and in all.” Colossians 3:11

Additional References:
This is the only occurrence in the New Testament.

A – Analyzing Classical Usage

N – Noteworthy Summary

Σκύθης powerfully illustrates the radical inclusivity of the Gospel. By using this term representing the ultimate cultural outsider, Paul emphasizes that Christ’s salvation transcends all human boundaries. This promotes the Gospel by declaring that no one is too far from God’s reach, and in Christ’s body, all social, ethnic, and cultural divisions are abolished.

D – Did You Know?

1. Scythians were known for their innovative horseback archery techniques.
2. Ancient Greeks often used “Scythian” as shorthand for any northern barbarian tribe.
3. Archaeological evidence shows Scythians had sophisticated artistic and metalworking skills despite their reputation.

Strong’s G4658: A noun denoting a Scythian, member of nomadic tribes considered the most barbaric by Greco-Roman standards. Paul uses this extreme example to demonstrate that in Christ, even the most significant cultural and social barriers are abolished, emphasizing the Gospel’s universal scope.

Part of speech: Noun (Masculine)

Tags: scythian, barbarian, cultural-barriers, unity-in-christ, paul, colossians, ethnicity, inclusion, social-divisions, reconciliation, gospel-universality, biblical-greek, new-testament, cultural-transformation​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​