Introduction

Understanding Greek words in Biblical studies provides profound insights into the original meaning and context of scripture. The Greek word Ἰωήλ (Iōḗl) is significant as it refers to the prophet Joel, one of the twelve minor prophets in the Old Testament. Studying this word is crucial for comprehending the prophecies and teachings of Joel, especially his proclamations about the “Day of the Lord” and the coming of the Spirit, which are essential for New Testament interpretation and early Christian thought.

Key Information

• The Greek Word: Ἰωήλ (Iōḗl), pronounced [ee-oh-AYL].
• Etymology: The name Ἰωήλ is derived from the Hebrew יואל (Yo’el), which means “Yahweh is God.” It combines the Hebrew words for “Yahweh” (YHWH) and “God” (El).
• Part of Speech: Proper noun, masculine.
• Declension: Third declension, following Greek proper noun patterns.
• The F.O.G Word Choice: Coming Soon.

Primary Meanings

• Joel: The prophet Joel, known for his prophecies concerning repentance, the outpouring of God’s Spirit, and judgment.

Similar Words: Ἰησοῦς (Iēsoûs) [ee-ay-SOOS] – Refers to Jesus, whose name is also derived from Hebrew. While Ἰωήλ (Joel) emphasizes the sovereignty of God, Ἰησοῦς signifies “Yahweh saves.” The similarity lies in their Hebrew origins and their significance in salvation history.

Further Insights: The name Ἰωήλ follows the third declension in Greek grammar, which involves variations in endings based on case. The word shows the transliteration of Hebrew sounds into Greek characters, revealing how early Greek-speaking Jews and Christians adapted Hebrew names. Below is a declension chart for Ἰωήλ:

Click here for a beginners guide to reading Greek.

Lexicon Insights

• BDAG: Defines Ἰωήλ as the Greek form of the Hebrew prophet Joel, known for his prophetic writings in the Old Testament that emphasize repentance and divine judgment.
• Thayers: Explains the Hebrew roots of Ἰωήλ, focusing on the meaning “Yahweh is God” and Joel’s role as a prophetic voice calling Israel to repentance.
• Vines: Highlights the prophetic significance of Joel, particularly his prediction of the outpouring of the Holy Spirit, as quoted in Acts 2.
• LSJ: Mentions the adoption of Ἰωήλ into Greek, used to refer to the prophet in Biblical and early Christian texts.
• Strong’s Exhaustive Concordance: Lists the occurrences of Joel in the New Testament, particularly emphasizing his prophecy’s fulfillment in the book of Acts.

Related Scripture References

• Acts 2:16-17 – “But this is what was spoken of through the prophet Joel [Ἰωήλ]: ‘And it shall be in the last days,’ God says, ‘That I will pour forth of My Spirit on all mankind…'”
• Romans 10:13 – “For ‘Whoever will call on the name of the Lord will be saved,’ as spoken by the prophet Joel [Ἰωήλ].”
• Luke 3:30 – “…the son of Simeon, the son of Judah, the son of Joseph, the son of Jonan, the son of Eliakim.”

Classical Usage

Summary of Ἰωήλ (G2493: Iōḗl)

The Greek word Ἰωήλ (Iōḗl) refers to the prophet Joel, a pivotal figure in both Old and New Testament theology. His message, emphasizing repentance, divine judgment, and the promise of the Holy Spirit, has profound implications for understanding God’s relationship with His people. The usage of Ἰωήλ in both Hebrew and Greek contexts reveals the continuity of prophetic literature and its influence on early Christian thought.

Did You Know?

• Joel is one of the earliest prophets to mention the “Day of the Lord,” a theme that recurs throughout the prophetic books.
• Joel’s prophecy of the outpouring of the Holy Spirit is directly cited by Peter during his sermon at Pentecost in Acts 2.
• The Book of Joel is considered unique among the prophetic books for its focus on both immediate and eschatological events.

This overview provides a comprehensive understanding of Ἰωήλ and its significance in Biblical literature.