Gramma (γράμμα) is a Greek noun found under Strong’s Concordance number G1121. The word is derived from the Greek verb γράφω (graphō), meaning “to write.” Gramma primarily refers to something that is written or inscribed. The term has a range of meanings, including a letter of the alphabet, a written document, a letter (as in correspondence), or even the written law. In the New Testament, Gramma can refer to sacred writings or the written code of the Law, highlighting its importance in both educational and religious contexts.

Detailed Description from Lexicons

In BDAG (Bauer, Danker, Arndt, and Gingrich), Gramma is described with a range of meanings, from the basic concept of a written character or letter of the alphabet to more complex ideas such as a written document, legal code, or sacred scripture. BDAG emphasizes its use in the New Testament to denote written documents or letters, as well as its figurative use to refer to the written law in opposition to the Spirit (e.g., 2 Corinthians 3:6).

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Thayer’s Lexicon agrees with BDAG, offering a comprehensive definition of Gramma as not only a letter or character of the alphabet but also as an epistle or written document. Thayer’s highlights the term’s use in the New Testament, where it often refers to the written law, particularly in discussions contrasting the written code with the Spirit.

The LSJ (Liddell, Scott, Jones) lexicon supports this interpretation, noting that Gramma can refer to a written character, letter, document, or even a treatise. LSJ particularly emphasizes its educational use in ancient Greece, where Gramma could signify a piece of writing used for instruction.

Strong’s Exhaustive Concordance also describes Gramma as a letter of the alphabet or any written material. It points out that the term is used in various New Testament passages to refer to written letters, documents, and the written law, underscoring the versatility of the word.

Examples of Gramma in the Bible include John 7:15, where it refers to letters or learning, as the Jews marvel at Jesus, saying, “How does this man know letters (γράμματα), having never studied?” In 2 Corinthians 3:6, Paul contrasts the Gramma (written code) with the Spirit, highlighting the limitations of the letter of the law compared to the life-giving Spirit.

Usage in Classical Greek Literature

In classical Greek literature, Gramma is used widely and in various contexts. One notable example is in the works of Plato, where Gramma refers to written characters or letters, often in discussions about language, writing, and education. Plato frequently used the term in philosophical dialogues to explore the nature of writing and knowledge.

Another example is from Aristotle, who also uses Gramma in his treatises to refer to written characters and documents. In his works on logic and rhetoric, Gramma often signifies the building blocks of written language, essential for communication and education.

A third example comes from Herodotus, who employs Gramma to describe written records or inscriptions, highlighting the importance of writing in preserving history and culture. For Herodotus, Gramma is not just a letter but a means of recording and transmitting information across generations.

Summary

Gramma (γράμμα) is a versatile Greek word that primarily refers to something written, whether a single letter of the alphabet, a document, or a written code. Rooted in the verb γράφω (graphō), meaning “to write,” it is used in various contexts within the New Testament, including references to learning, written letters, and the written law. Lexicons like BDAG, Thayer’s, and LSJ describe Gramma as encompassing a broad range of meanings, from the basic elements of writing to complex legal or sacred texts. In classical Greek literature, Gramma plays a significant role in discussions about language, education, and the preservation of knowledge, illustrating its fundamental importance in both everyday life and philosophical discourse. The term’s usage in both biblical and classical contexts underscores its significance as a cornerstone of written communication and instruction.