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Unveiling the Word

In Biblical studies, understanding the Greek words used in the New Testament helps to provide a deeper appreciation of the cultural, historical, and theological contexts of Scripture. The Greek word κιθάρα (kithara) is particularly significant because it refers to a musical instrument that played an essential role in both ancient Greek culture and early Christian worship. The use of κιθάρα in 1 Corinthians 14:7 emphasizes the importance of clarity and distinction in communication, much like the clear and distinct notes of a musical instrument. This word’s study sheds light on both the New Testament’s didactic use of music metaphors and the broader cultural practices of music in the ancient world.

Necessary Information

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Greek Word: κιθάρα, transliterated as kithara [kee-THAH-rah].

Etymology: The word κιθάρα is derived from the ancient Greek root that refers to a type of stringed musical instrument. It is related to the Hebrew word “kinnor,” often translated as “harp” or “lyre,” which appears in the Old Testament.

Part of Speech: κιθάρα is a feminine noun. In terms of grammatical details, it appears primarily in the nominative, genitive, dative, and accusative cases, and it adheres to the patterns of first declension nouns in Greek.

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Defining Meanings

The primary meaning of κιθάρα is a “lyre” or “harp,” a stringed musical instrument used in both sacred and secular settings. The instrument was commonly played during worship, celebrations, and various cultural events, symbolizing joy, worship, and sometimes lament.

Another meaning relates to the usage of κιθάρα in metaphorical contexts within the New Testament. The word symbolizes harmony and order, as it is often used to illustrate how Christians should communicate clearly and harmoniously.

Additionally, in some classical and later contexts, κιθάρα could also refer to any stringed instrument, though the lyre and harp were the most common associations in ancient Greek and early Christian literature.

Exploring Similar Words

The word ψαλτήριον (psaltērion) [psal-TAY-ree-on] is a similar Greek word meaning “psaltery” or another type of stringed instrument. While κιθάρα typically referred to the lyre or harp, ψαλτήριον was often used for an instrument with a different construction, such as a trapezoidal form and more strings.

Another similar word is λύρα (lyra) [LEE-rah], which specifically denotes a “lyre.” The κιθάρα was a more complex and larger instrument than the simpler lyra, often associated with professional musicians and formal settings.

The term ὄργανον (organon) [OR-gan-on] means “instrument” more generally, including both musical and non-musical instruments. Unlike κιθάρα, which specifically refers to a stringed instrument, ὄργανον encompasses a broader range of tools and devices.

Reviewing the Word’s Morphology

Case, Number, Gender: κιθάρα is a feminine noun. It follows the first declension pattern in Greek. It can be used in various cases: nominative, genitive, dative, and accusative, both in singular and plural forms.

Declension: Below is the declension table for the noun κιθάρα:

For a more detailed exploration of Greek grammar, Click here for a beginners guide to reading Greek.

Studying Lexicon Insights

κιθάρα, as referenced in the New Testament, is often used metaphorically to describe clarity, order, and harmony, much like a well-tuned musical instrument. In classical literature, κιθάρα primarily denotes the lyre, a significant part of Greek musical culture. Theologically, the word emphasizes the need for clear communication in worship and teaching within the Christian community. κιθάρα is employed to illustrate the importance of edification and understanding, which were central to the apostolic teachings of the early church. This overview synthesizes insights from BDAG, Thayer’s, LSJ, Vine’s, Strong’s, LEH, and Moulton and Milligan.

Tracing Related Scriptures

1 Corinthians 14:7: “Even things without life giving sound, whether pipe or harp [κιθάρα], except they give a distinction in the sounds, how shall it be known what is piped or harped?”

Revelation 5:8: “And when he had taken the book, the four beasts and four and twenty elders fell down before the Lamb, having every one of them harps [κιθάρας], and golden vials full of odors, which are the prayers of saints.”

Revelation 14:2: “And I heard a voice from heaven, as the voice of many waters, and as the voice of a great thunder: and I heard the voice of harpers [κιθαρῳδῶν] harping with their harps [κιθάραις].”

Analyzing Classical Usage

Noteworthy Summary

The Greek word κιθάρα offers a profound look into both the cultural and theological dimensions of early Christian and ancient Greek life. Whether used literally to refer to a musical instrument or metaphorically to emphasize clarity and harmony, κιθάρα embodies the blend of music, worship, and communication that is central to the biblical narrative.

Did You Know?

The κιθάρα was a professional musician’s instrument, more elaborate than the simpler lyre, often played at formal events and in worship.

In Revelation, the κιθάρα is depicted as a heavenly instrument, indicating its importance not only in earthly worship but also in the eschatological visions of John.

Greek philosophers like Plato considered music, including the κιθάρα, essential to education, reflecting its cultural significance beyond religious contexts.