Introduction

Understanding Greek words in Biblical studies provides a deeper comprehension of Scripture and the cultural contexts in which the texts were written. The Greek word θανάσιμος (thanasimos) is particularly significant because it describes something that is deadly or lethal, appearing in contexts that deal with life and death matters. Its use in the New Testament provides a vivid picture of the serious threats faced by early Christians, as well as the divine protection promised to them.

Key Information

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• The Greek Word: θανάσιμος, thanasimos [than-AS-ee-mos]
• Etymology: Derived from the Greek root θάνατος (thanatos), meaning “death.”
• Part of Speech: Adjective
• Grammatical Details: Second declension adjective, with masculine, feminine, and neuter forms.
• The F.O.G Word Choice: Coming Soon

Primary Meanings

• Deadly
• Fatal
• Lethal

Similar Words: θανάσιμος (thanasimos) is closely related to θάνατος (thanatos), which means “death.” While θανάσιμος is an adjective describing something that causes death or is capable of death, θάνατος is a noun that directly refers to death itself.

Further Insights: The word θανάσιμος is a descriptive adjective that belongs to the second declension. It is often used to emphasize the seriousness of a situation or object that can lead to death. Below is a table showing the full declension of θανάσιμος:

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Lexicon Insights

BDAG: Describes θανάσιμος as “causing death, deadly, lethal,” often used to refer to substances or situations that could result in death.

Thayers: Defines θανάσιμος as “deadly, fatal,” emphasizing its use in contexts that involve life-threatening situations.

Vines: Lists θανάσιμος under its discussion of words related to death, pointing out its usage in describing things that are fatal or mortal in nature.

LSJ (Liddell-Scott-Jones): Describes the word θανάσιμος as “bringing death, deadly,” found in various Greek literature to describe lethal weapons or poisons.

Strong’s Exhaustive Concordance: Translates θανάσιμος as “fatal” or “deadly,” noting its occurrence in the New Testament and providing references for its usage.

Related Scripture References

• Mark 16:18: “They will pick up serpents, and if they drink any deadly poison, it will not hurt them; they will lay hands on the sick, and they will recover.” Here, θανάσιμον describes a deadly poison, emphasizing divine protection from fatal harm.

Classical Usage

Septuagint Examples:

Summary of θανάσιμος (G2286: thanasimos)

The word θανάσιμος (G2286: thanasimos) is a potent adjective used to describe things that are lethal, deadly, or fatal. This word appears in the New Testament in contexts that highlight the dangers faced by early Christians, as well as the miraculous protections they were promised. It also appears in classical Greek literature and the Septuagint to describe deadly weapons, situations, or poisons, underscoring its versatility and importance in conveying concepts of life and death. Understanding θανάσιμος enriches our comprehension of Biblical texts and ancient Greek thought, providing insight into how death and danger were perceived in these cultures.

Did You Know?

Did you know that θανάσιμος is related to the word θάνατος (thanatos), which personifies death in Greek mythology? Thanatos was often depicted as a winged figure or a young man with a sword, symbolizing the inevitability of death—a fitting backdrop for the Biblical use of θανάσιμος to convey life-threatening situations.

This comprehensive overview captures the significance of θανάσιμος in both Biblical and classical contexts, providing a detailed yet accessible understanding of the word.