Introduction

Understanding the Greek word ἴσος (isos) is crucial in Biblical studies for grasping concepts related to equality and fairness. This term is often used to describe balance and equivalence in various contexts within the New Testament. Its use also sheds light on social, ethical, and theological dimensions of early Christian teachings and broader Greek culture.

Key Information

• The Greek Word: ἴσος, transliterated as isos [EE-sos].
• Etymology: Derived from Proto-Indo-European ey- (to go), implying “equal,” “same,” or “fair.”
• Part of Speech: Adjective (2-1-2 declension pattern in Greek grammar).
• The F.O.G Word Choice: Coming Soon.

Primary Meanings

• Equal or equivalent in size, number, or status.
• Fair or impartial, often in legal or moral contexts.

Similar Words: ἰσότης (isotēs) [ee-SOH-tes], meaning “equality” or “fairness,” extends the concept of ἴσος to more abstract forms, emphasizing the state of equality rather than the adjective form.

Further Insights: The word ἴσος is a second declension adjective and can be used to modify nouns of different genders. Morphologically, it follows a typical 2-1-2 pattern where the masculine and neuter forms share endings. This flexibility allows it to describe equality in various contexts, from physical measurements to metaphorical fairness.
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Lexicon Insights

• BDAG: Describes ἴσος as meaning “equal” or “alike,” often used in relational and comparative senses.
• Thayers: Defines it as “equal” or “like,” particularly in reference to status or value.
• Vines: Focuses on the idea of equivalence, both in physical and non-physical senses.
• LSJ: Provides contexts where ἴσος denotes equality, balance, or fairness.
• Strong’s Exhaustive Concordance: Marks ἴσος as “equal,” noting its appearances in New Testament passages where fairness and justice are emphasized.

Related Scripture References

• Philippians 2:6: “Who, being in very nature God, did not consider equality [ἴσος] with God something to be grasped.”
• John 5:18: “For this reason, the Jews were seeking all the more to kill Him, because He was not only breaking the Sabbath but was also calling God His own Father, making Himself equal [ἴσος] with God.”

Classical Usage

Summary of ἴσος (G2470)

The Greek word ἴσος (isos) is a versatile adjective used to convey equality, fairness, and equivalence in the New Testament and classical Greek literature. Its application ranges from physical dimensions to ethical principles, providing valuable insight into early Christian concepts of justice and equity.

Did You Know?

Did you know that the Greek word ἴσος is the root for several English words like “isometric,” which describes objects of equal dimensions, or “isothermal,” which relates to equal temperatures?

This overview illustrates how the term ἴσος is foundational for understanding key Biblical and classical Greek concepts related to equality and justice.