Introduction

Understanding Greek words is vital for deepening one’s comprehension of Biblical texts, as the original Greek often carries nuanced meanings that may not always be fully conveyed in translation. The Greek word ἱερός (hieros) is particularly significant because it pertains to what is “holy” or “sacred.” This term is commonly used to refer to temples, priesthood, and sacred rites, making it a crucial concept for understanding both New Testament teachings and ancient Greek culture, where religion and the sacred played central roles in society.

Key Information

• The Greek Word: ἱερός, transliterated as hieros [hee-er-OS].
• Etymology: The root of ἱερός is associated with what is considered sacred or consecrated, though its exact etymology is debated. It is often connected to ideas of divinity and religious ritual.
• Part of Speech: Adjective.
• Grammatical Details: ἱερός follows the first/second declension pattern in Greek.
• The F.O.G Word Choice: Coming Soon.

Primary Meanings

• Sacred: Refers to something that is dedicated or consecrated to a deity or divine purpose.
• Holy: Denotes purity or a set-apart nature, often related to divine law or worship.
• Belonging to a Temple: Specifically indicates something that pertains to a temple or religious setting.

Similar Words: ἱερός (hieros) is related to words like ἅγιος (hagios), meaning “holy” or “set apart,” and θρησκευτός (threskeutos), meaning “religious” or “devout.” While ἱερός often refers to something specifically related to a temple or a sacred object, ἅγιος can be more general, referring to holiness or saintliness in people and things. θρησκευτός emphasizes personal religious devotion rather than the sacredness of an object or place.

Further Insights: ἱερός is an adjective that follows the first/second declension in Greek grammar. Here is the declension of ἱερός:

Click here for a beginners guide to reading Greek: Click here for a beginners guide to reading Greek.

Lexicon Insights

BDAG: The BDAG lexicon defines ἱερός as “pertaining to what is holy,” with emphasis on what is associated with the divine, such as temples, rites, and priesthoods.

Thayers: Thayer’s lexicon provides the meaning of ἱερός as “sacred,” particularly in reference to temples or places and objects dedicated to divine service.

Vines: Vine’s Expository Dictionary describes ἱερός as “holy” or “sacred,” used to denote things that are dedicated to God or connected with worship.

LSJ: The Liddell-Scott-Jones lexicon expands on the term by including broader secular uses, such as “public” or “imperial,” indicating its adaptation in later Greek and Roman contexts.

Strong’s Exhaustive Concordance: Strong’s Concordance defines ἱερός (G2413) as “sacred, holy,” typically used to describe things belonging to a temple or religious service.

Related Scripture References

• 2 Timothy 3:15: “And how from infancy you have known the Holy (ἱερὰ) Scriptures, which are able to make you wise for salvation through faith in Christ Jesus.”
• Acts 19:37: “For you have brought these men here who are neither robbers of temples (ἱεροσύλους) nor blasphemers of our goddess.”

Classical Usage

Summary of ἱερός (G2413)

The Greek word ἱερός (hieros) is essential for understanding the concept of holiness and sacredness in both the New Testament and classical Greek literature. Its primary meanings encompass ideas related to what is sacred, holy, or set apart for divine purposes. In the Bible, ἱερός frequently appears in contexts referring to sacred places, scriptures, and actions associated with religious rites. Understanding this term allows for a more nuanced interpretation of Biblical texts and their emphasis on the divine and holy.

Did You Know?

• Did You Know? The word ἱερός was often used in ancient Greece to describe temples, signifying the cultural importance of these places as both religious and social centers.
• Did You Know? While ἱερός typically means “sacred,” its derivatives like ἱερόθυτος (meaning “offered to the gods”) were used to refer to sacrificial offerings, further emphasizing its religious connotations.
• Did You Know? The usage of ἱερός in the New Testament is limited, but it appears in key passages discussing sacred writings or holy actions, which have shaped theological understandings of divine law and worship.

This comprehensive overview provides readers with an understanding of the depth and significance of ἱερός (hieros) in both Biblical and classical texts, offering insights into its usage and implications for interpreting sacred writings and religious practices.