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Unveiling the Word

Understanding Greek words is crucial for Biblical studies, as it helps to capture the deeper meanings and contexts often lost in translation. The Greek word κλάσις (klasis) is particularly significant because it is related to the breaking or dividing of bread, a practice that carries profound theological and cultural importance in both New Testament teachings and ancient Greek traditions. In the New Testament, κλάσις is often used in the context of communal meals or Eucharistic celebrations, symbolizing fellowship, remembrance, and the unity of believers. In understanding this word, we gain insight into the spiritual and cultural practices of early Christians and their Jewish roots.

Necessary Information

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Greek Word: κλάσις, transliterated as klasis [KLAH-sis].

Etymology: The word κλάσις comes from the root verb κλάω (klaō), meaning “to break.” This etymology reflects the action of breaking bread, which was a common practice during meals and religious gatherings in ancient Jewish and early Christian contexts.

Part of Speech: Noun (feminine). As a noun, κλάσις is used to denote an act or instance of breaking, particularly of bread. It follows the first declension pattern for feminine nouns in Greek.

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Defining Meanings

1. Breaking (of Bread): The primary meaning of κλάσις is the “breaking” or “fracture” of bread. This action was a fundamental part of meals and religious rituals, symbolizing sharing, fellowship, and the body of Christ in Christian theology.
2. Communion Meal: By extension, κλάσις also refers to the communal meal shared among early Christians, often called “breaking of bread.” This term captures not only the physical act but also the spiritual and communal aspect of early Christian gatherings.
3. Division: In a broader sense, κλάσις can mean any form of division or separation, though it is rarely used in this way in the New Testament.

Exploring Similar Words

1. κλάσμα (klasma) [KLAH-smah]: This word also means a “fragment” or “piece,” often of something broken, such as bread. It focuses more on the result (the pieces) rather than the action (the breaking).
2. διαίρεσις (diairesis) [dee-EH-reh-sis]: Refers to a “division” or “separation” but is more technical and less specific to the context of meals or bread-breaking. It is often used in logical or philosophical contexts.
3. μερισμός (merismos) [meh-rees-MOS]: Meaning “division” or “distribution,” this word can be used in broader contexts, including the distribution of resources or spiritual gifts.

Reviewing the Word’s Morphology

Case, Number, Gender:
κλάσις is a feminine noun of the first declension. It can appear in singular or plural forms and in various cases depending on its grammatical role in the sentence:

• Nominative (Singular): κλάσις – “breaking” (subject)
• Genitive (Singular): κλάσεως – “of breaking” (possessive)
• Dative (Singular): κλάσει – “to/for breaking” (indirect object)
• Accusative (Singular): κλάσιν – “breaking” (direct object)

For more on Greek grammar, Click here for a beginners guide to reading Greek.

Studying Lexicon Insights

The word κλάσις is often associated with early Christian practices, especially in the context of the Last Supper and the Eucharist, where breaking bread symbolizes sharing in the body of Christ. In Luke 24:35, it is used to describe the moment when Jesus is recognized by the disciples in Emmaus as He breaks bread with them. The word implies both a literal and symbolic action that reflects fellowship and remembrance. In classical Greek literature, κλάσις retains its literal meaning of “breaking” or “fracture.” This overview synthesizes insights from BDAG, Thayer’s, LSJ, Vine’s, Strong’s, LEH, and Moulton and Milligan.

Tracing Related Scriptures

1. Luke 24:35: “Then they told what had happened on the road, and how He was known to them in the breaking [κλάσει] of the bread.”
2. Acts 2:42: “They devoted themselves to the apostles’ teaching and fellowship, to the breaking [κλάσει] of bread and the prayers.”
3. Acts 20:7: “On the first day of the week, when we were gathered together to break [κλάσαι] bread, Paul talked with them.”

Analyzing Classical Usage

Noteworthy Summary

The word κλάσις (klasis) is significant in Biblical studies for its association with the breaking of bread, a central practice in Christian liturgy and communal life. Understanding its use in both the New Testament and classical literature helps to shed light on the symbolic and practical aspects of fellowship, sharing, and remembrance in early Christian communities.

Did You Know?

1. The “breaking of bread” was not only a meal but a way of establishing community and covenant among early Christians.
2. The term κλάσις is used metaphorically in early Christian writings to signify unity among believers, as they “break” one loaf together.
3. In ancient Greek culture, breaking bread together was seen as a sign of hospitality and trust, which carried over into early Christian practices.