Unveiling the Word

Understanding Greek words in Biblical studies is essential for grasping the full depth of the New Testament’s message. The Greek word κολλούριον (kollourion), which appears first in Revelation 3:18, is particularly significant. This term refers to an “eye salve” or ointment, used metaphorically by Jesus to admonish the church in Laodicea to gain true spiritual sight. In ancient Greek culture, kollourion was commonly used in medical practices, underscoring the Bible’s integration of familiar cultural references to convey spiritual truths. Its usage in Revelation enriches our understanding of the text’s spiritual and cultural context.

Necessary Information

Greek Word: κολλούριον, transliterated as kollourion [kol-LOO-ree-on].

Etymology: The word kollourion is derived from the diminutive form of the Greek word κόλλυρα (kollura), which means a “small cake” or “roll.” The name reflects the shape of the eye salve or poultice that was rolled and applied to the eyes.

Part of Speech: Noun, neuter. As a noun, it is used to refer specifically to a substance applied to the eyes. It belongs to the second declension in Greek grammar, where its form changes according to case, number, and function within a sentence.

The F.O.G Word Choice: Coming Soon.

Defining Meanings

1. Eye Salve or Ointment: The primary meaning of kollourion is an ointment or salve specifically used for treating the eyes. In Revelation 3:18, it is used metaphorically to represent spiritual insight or clarity that the church in Laodicea needs.
2. Metaphorical Use for Spiritual Healing: Beyond its literal sense, kollourion is employed in Revelation to signify the need for spiritual enlightenment. Just as physical salve heals the eyes, spiritual “eye salve” allows believers to see the truth more clearly.

Exploring Similar Words

1. ἀλοιφή (aloiphē) [a-loy-FAY]: Refers to ointment or salve in general. Unlike kollourion, which is specific to eye treatments, aloiphē can be used for various purposes, including healing wounds or anointing the body.
2. φαρμακον (pharmakon) [FAR-ma-kon]: Refers broadly to a “drug” or “medicine.” This term includes not only healing substances but also poisons, differing from the specific and beneficial connotation of kollourion.
3. πῶμα (pōma) [POH-mah]: Refers to a “poultice” or “compress,” a term more general than kollourion, which describes any substance applied to an area for healing purposes, including but not limited to the eyes.

Reviewing the Word’s Morphology

Case, Number, Gender: Kollourion is a neuter noun and follows the second declension pattern in Greek. It can appear in different cases depending on its grammatical function:

• Nominative Singular: κολλούριον
• Genitive Singular: κολλουρίου
• Dative Singular: κολλουρίῳ
• Accusative Singular: κολλούριον

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Studying Lexicon Insights

The use of kollourion in Revelation 3:18 as a metaphorical eye salve is notable in Biblical lexicons. In New Testament contexts, this term is used uniquely to describe a spiritual remedy for blindness, emphasizing the need for the Laodiceans to regain spiritual clarity. In ancient contexts, kollourion is understood more literally as an eye ointment that was widely recognized for its healing properties. This blend of literal and metaphorical uses enhances the theological depth of the Biblical text, highlighting the physical need for vision and its spiritual counterpart. This overview synthesizes insights from BDAG, Thayer’s, LSJ, Vine’s, Strong’s, LEH, and Moulton and Milligan.

Tracing Related Scriptures

1. Revelation 3:18: “I counsel you to buy from Me gold refined by fire, so that you may become rich; and white garments so that you may clothe yourself, and that the shame of your nakedness will not be revealed; and eye salve [κολλούριον] to anoint your eyes so that you may see.”

Analyzing Classical Usage

Noteworthy Summary

The Greek term kollourion carries both literal and metaphorical significance in the Bible. Its primary meaning as an eye salve underlines the metaphorical use in Revelation 3:18, where it symbolizes the need for spiritual sight. This understanding is enriched by its classical use in medical texts, demonstrating its historical background in eye treatment. By examining kollourion in its various contexts, one gains a fuller understanding of its layered meanings in both ancient and Biblical Greek literature.

Did You Know?

1. The city of Laodicea, where the message in Revelation 3:18 was addressed, was famous for its medical school and the production of an eye salve similar to kollourion.
2. In ancient Greek medicine, kollourion was often used in combination with other herbs and minerals to enhance its healing properties.
3. The term kollourion is not found in the Hebrew Bible, highlighting its unique presence in the New Testament and classical Greek texts.