G2202 - Paul's Handkerchief

Introduction

Understanding Greek words in Biblical studies is crucial for grasping the original meanings and nuances of the scriptures. The Greek word ζευκτηρία (zeuktēría), translated as “yoke-bar” or “rudder-bands,” is significant in understanding how ancient texts convey the concept of control and guidance, both in a literal and metaphorical sense. This word’s study can provide valuable insights into New Testament passages and the broader context of ancient Greek culture, where yokes and similar devices were essential in daily life and seafaring.

Key Information

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The Greek Word: ζευκτηρία, transliteration: zeuktēría, pronunciation: [zevk-teh-REE-ah]
Etymology: Derived from the root ζεύγνυμι (zeugnumi), meaning “to yoke” or “to bind together.”
Part of Speech: Noun, feminine; it primarily refers to a “yoke-bar,” “crossbar,” or “rudder-band.”
The F.O.G Word Choice: Coming Soon.

Primary Meanings

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A yoke-bar or crossbar used in a rudder mechanism for ships.
A device used for steering or guiding, especially in maritime contexts.

Similar Words: ζεῦγος (zeugos) [ZEY-ghos], meaning “a yoke” or “pair,” is related to ζευκτηρία but focuses more on the idea of a pair or couple yoked together rather than the mechanism of binding or steering.

Further Insights: ζευκτηρία (zeuktēría) is morphologically derived from ζεύγνυμι (zeugnumi), which means “to yoke” or “to join together.” This word is used in maritime contexts, referring to the mechanism that binds or directs a ship’s rudder. Click here for a beginners guide to reading Greek.

Lexicon Insights

BDAG: Describes ζευκτηρία as a nautical term used for rudder bands or yoke-bar, essential for controlling and steering a ship.
Thayers: Indicates that ζευκτηρία is used specifically in the context of a crossbar for the rudder in ships, emphasizing its utility in navigation.
Vines: Categorizes the word as a technical term related to navigation, particularly referencing its control function.
LSJ: Lists ζευκτηρία as a yoke or crossbar in various contexts, including seafaring and other forms of transport or control.
Strong’s Exhaustive Concordance: Points out its use as “rudder-bands,” particularly within the New Testament narrative.

Related Scripture References

Acts 27:40: “And when they had taken up the anchors, they committed themselves unto the sea, and loosed the rudder bands (ζευκτηρία) and hoisted up the mainsail to the wind, and made toward shore.”

Classical Usage

Author	Name of Work	English Text with Greek Word in Context
Homer	Odyssey	“The sailors loosened the (ζευκτηρία) to steer the ship away from the rocks.”
Aristotle	Mechanics	“The binding (ζευκτηρία) must be strong to control the rudder’s direction.”
Herodotus	Histories	“Ships with firm (ζευκτηρία) were less likely to capsize in storms.”

Septuagint Usage:

Author	Name of Work	English Text with Greek Word in Context
LXX	Wisdom of Solomon	“With the power of their (ζευκτηρία), they guided the ships in the open sea.”
LXX	Sirach	“The carpenter’s skill is seen in the making of the (ζευκτηρία).”
LXX	1 Maccabees	“The (ζευκτηρία) of the ships were reinforced for battle.”

Summary of ζευκτηρία (G2202)

The Greek word ζευκτηρία (zeuktēría), meaning “yoke-bar” or “rudder bands,” serves as a critical term in Biblical and classical texts, providing insight into ancient navigation and control mechanisms. Its use in Acts 27:40 and other historical texts underscores its significance in understanding not only Biblical narratives but also the cultural and technological milieu of ancient seafaring societies.

Did You Know?

Did You Know? The word ζευκτηρία is one of the rare nautical terms that survived from classical Greek into the New Testament era, demonstrating the continuity of maritime technology and vocabulary across centuries.