Introduction

Understanding Greek words in Biblical studies is crucial for comprehending the context and deeper meanings within the New Testament. Ἰτουραῖος (Itouraios), translated as “Ituraean,” is significant for its reference to the people of Ituraea, a region mentioned in the Bible. Knowing the cultural and geographical implications of such terms can help illuminate the socio-political dynamics of the early Christian era.

Key Information

• The Greek Word: Ἰτουραῖος, transliterated as Itouraios [ee-too-RAH-yos].
• Etymology: Derived from the name Ἰτουραία (Ituraea), referring to a specific region.
• Part of Speech: Adjective (masculine), describing something related to Ituraea.
• The F.O.G Word Choice: Coming Soon.

Primary Meanings

• Ituraean: Pertaining to Ituraea, a region located northeast of Galilee in ancient Palestine.

Similar Words: Σαμαρεῖτης (Samareites) [sam-ah-RAY-ites] refers to a “Samaritan,” or someone from Samaria. While Ἰτουραῖος is specifically about the Ituraean region, Σαμαρεῖτης focuses on Samaria, emphasizing the different regional and cultural identities within the broader landscape of the New Testament.

Further Insights: The word Ἰτουραῖος is an adjective used to describe the inhabitants or the region of Ituraea. It follows a standard Greek declension pattern for masculine, feminine, and neuter forms, allowing it to modify various nouns in different grammatical contexts.

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Lexicon Insights

• BDAG: Defines Ἰτουραῖος as an adjective referring to something or someone from Ituraea, a region noted for its role in the socio-political landscape of ancient Palestine.
• Thayers: Highlights Ἰτουραῖος as an adjective from Ἰτουραία, indicating an inhabitant of Ituraea.
• Vines: Discusses Ἰτουραῖος in relation to the Ituraeans, known for their semi-nomadic lifestyle and involvement in regional conflicts during the New Testament era.
• LSJ: Provides classical usage, noting Ἰτουραῖος as an ethnic adjective.
• Strong’s Exhaustive Concordance: Lists Ἰτουραῖος simply as “Ituraean,” with references to its appearance in the New Testament.

Related Scripture References

• Luke 3:1: “Now in the fifteenth year of the reign of Tiberius Caesar, Pontius Pilate being governor of Judaea, and Herod being tetrarch of Galilee, and his brother Philip tetrarch of the region of Ituraea [Ἰτουραίας] and Trachonitis, and Lysanias tetrarch of Abilene.”

Classical Usage

Summary of Ἰτουραῖος (G2484)

The word Ἰτουραῖος (Itouraios), referring to something or someone from the region of Ituraea, holds significant value in understanding the cultural and geographical dynamics of the New Testament. This term sheds light on the regional identities and their implications on the socio-political narrative of early Christianity. With its appearance in Luke 3:1, it becomes clear how the Roman administrative divisions influenced the context of Jesus’ ministry and early Christian communities.

Did You Know?

• Did you know that Ituraea was a region northeast of Galilee, known for its rugged terrain and semi-nomadic people?
• Did you know that the Ituraeans were famed for their archery skills and played a significant role in regional conflicts during the New Testament period?
• Did you know that understanding terms like Ἰτουραῖος provides valuable insights into the historical and political landscape of first-century Judea?

This comprehensive overview offers a well-rounded understanding of Ἰτουραῖος, its usage, and its significance in both the New Testament and classical Greek literature.