Introduction

Understanding Greek words is crucial in Biblical studies as it allows us to grasp the depth and nuance of the original texts. The Greek word ἦχος (ēchos) is particularly significant because it is frequently used to convey concepts related to sound, noise, or echo. Its usage spans both literal and metaphorical senses, which provides a deeper understanding of how sound and communication were perceived in ancient Greek culture and the New Testament.

Key Information

• The Greek Word: ἦχος (ēchos), pronounced [AY-khos].
• Etymology: Derived from the root verb ἠχέω (ēcheō), meaning “to sound” or “to resound,” which relates to the idea of an echo or reverberation.
• Part of Speech: Noun (Masculine). It is a second declension noun.
• The F.O.G Word Choice: Coming Soon.

Primary Meanings

• Sound: Refers to a generic sound or noise.
• Echo: A reverberation or reflected sound.
• Report: Can also mean a message or news that spreads like sound.

Similar Words: ἦχος (ēchos) is similar to φωνή (phōnē), pronounced [fo-NEH], which means “voice” or “sound.” While φωνή often refers to a more specific vocal sound or speech, ἦχος is more general, covering a range of auditory phenomena, including non-verbal sounds and echoes. Another related term is βοή (boē), pronounced [bo-EH], which means “a loud cry” or “shout,” emphasizing a more forceful or sudden sound compared to the reverberating quality of ἦχος.

Further Insights: ἦχος (ēchos) is a masculine noun in the second declension. Here is the full declension of ἦχος:

Click here for a beginners guide to reading Greek.

Lexicon Insights

BDAG: The BDAG lexicon defines ἦχος (ēchos) primarily as “sound” or “noise,” with secondary meanings such as “echo” or “reverberation.” It is used in contexts where the focus is on the auditory aspect of events or messages, highlighting the effect of sound as it carries through an area or a narrative.

Thayers: Thayer’s Lexicon describes ἦχος (ēchos) as “a sound, a noise, or a report,” indicating a broad usage that can encompass both literal sounds and metaphorical references to information spreading like an echo.

Vines: Vine’s Expository Dictionary mentions ἦχος (ēchos) in the context of its usage to describe not only physical sounds but also the spreading of news or reports. It emphasizes the connotation of echo and resonance in its usage in the New Testament.

LSJ: The Liddell-Scott-Jones Lexicon provides definitions for ἦχος (ēchos) as “sound” and “echo,” and extends its meaning to “noise” and “report.” It discusses its application in both everyday language and more poetic or metaphorical senses in ancient Greek literature.

Strong’s Exhaustive Concordance: Strong’s Concordance lists ἦχος (ēchos) under G2279, translating it as “sound” or “echo.” It notes the variety of contexts where it can describe everything from literal sounds in nature to the echoing of voices or news.

Related Scripture References

• Luke 4:37: “And the fame [ἦχος] of Him went out into every place of the country round about.”
  (Here, ἦχος is used metaphorically to describe the spreading reputation or news about Jesus, emphasizing its resonating impact.)
• Acts 2:2: “And suddenly there came a sound [ἦχος] from heaven as of a rushing mighty wind, and it filled all the house where they were sitting.”
  (In this verse, ἦχος is used literally to describe the audible phenomenon accompanying the coming of the Holy Spirit.)

Classical Usage

Summary of ἦχος (G2279: ēchos)

The Greek word ἦχος (ēchos) is a noun meaning “sound,” “noise,” or “echo.” It is used in both the New Testament and classical Greek literature to convey not only literal auditory phenomena but also metaphorical ideas of resonance, reverberation, and the spread of news or fame. The study of ἦχος offers insights into the cultural and linguistic nuances of how sound and information were understood to travel and impact both physical and metaphorical landscapes.

Did You Know?

• ἦχος (ēchos) is the root word from which the English word “echo” is derived.
• In ancient Greek literature, ἦχος was often used to describe both natural phenomena like thunder and the resonating effects of spoken words or music.
• The word ἦχος captures the ancient Greek fascination with acoustics and the nature of sound, which influenced early scientific thought about sound waves and resonance.

This overview of ἦχος (ēchos) demonstrates its significance in both Biblical and classical contexts, helping readers appreciate the depth and range of meaning contained within this powerful Greek term.