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Unveiling the Word

Understanding Greek words in biblical studies is crucial for interpreting the New Testament accurately and grasping the cultural and historical contexts of the ancient world. The Greek word λόγχη (logchē) appears only once in the New Testament, in John 19:34, where it describes the spear used to pierce Jesus’ side after His crucifixion. This word is significant for its theological implications, as it fulfills the prophecy that not one of His bones would be broken and shows the reality of Jesus’ death. Additionally, studying λόγχη provides insight into ancient Greek and Roman weaponry, offering a deeper understanding of how such terms were used in everyday language and literature.

Necessary Information

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Greek Word: λόγχη (logchē) [pronunciation: LO-ng-khay].

Etymology: The word λόγχη comes from the Greek root word λόγχη, meaning “spear” or “lance.” There are no known compounds or derivatives of this word, which directly describes a specific type of weapon used by soldiers.

Part of Speech: Noun. λόγχη is a feminine noun and belongs to the first declension in Greek grammar. It generally refers to a spear or lance, especially one used in close combat.

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Defining Meanings

1. Spear or Lance: The primary meaning of λόγχη is “spear” or “lance.” This refers to a long pole weapon with a pointed end, typically used by soldiers in ancient Greek and Roman armies. The spear was an essential weapon for both thrusting in combat and throwing at a distance.

Exploring Similar Words

1. δόρυ (doron) [pronunciation: DO-roo]: Unlike λόγχη, which specifically refers to a spear or lance, δόρυ more generally denotes a tree or anything made of wood, including longer spears or javelins.
2. ἀκόντιον (akontion) [pronunciation: ah-KON-tee-on]: This word refers specifically to a dart or javelin, which is lighter and shorter than a λόγχη and typically used for throwing rather than thrusting.
3. ξιφός (xiphos) [pronunciation: KSEE-fohs]: ξιφός denotes a double-edged short sword used by Greek soldiers in close combat, contrasting with λόγχη, which is a longer, pole-like weapon.

Reviewing the Word’s Morphology

Case, Number, Gender:
λόγχη is a feminine noun in the first declension. Here is a breakdown of its forms:

• Nominative Singular: λόγχη (logchē) – used as the subject of a sentence.
• Genitive Singular: λόγχης (logchēs) – indicates possession, “of the spear.”
• Dative Singular: λόγχῃ (logchēi) – used for indirect objects, “to/for the spear.”
• Accusative Singular: λόγχην (logchēn) – used as the direct object of a sentence.
• Nominative Plural: λόγχαι (logchai) – plural form as the subject.
• Genitive Plural: λογχῶν (logchōn) – plural possessive form.
• Dative Plural: λόγχαις (logchais) – plural indirect object.
• Accusative Plural: λόγχας (logchas) – plural direct object.

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Studying Lexicon Insights

The word λόγχη appears only once in the New Testament, in John 19:34, where it describes the spear used to pierce Jesus’ side. This action fulfilled Old Testament prophecies, highlighting the theological significance of the word. The use of λόγχη emphasizes both the physical reality of Christ’s death and the fulfillment of the Scriptures. In classical Greek literature, λόγχη frequently refers to weapons used in battle, underscoring its military connotations. In theological discussions, the spear’s piercing of Jesus’ side symbolizes His sacrificial death and the outpouring of blood and water, signifying salvation and purification for believers.
This overview synthesizes insights from BDAG, Thayer’s, LSJ, Vine’s, Strong’s, LEH, and Moulton and Milligan.

Tracing Related Scriptures

• John 19:34 – “But one of the soldiers pierced His side with a spear ([λόγχη]), and immediately blood and water came out.”

Analyzing Classical Usage

Noteworthy Summary

λόγχη (logchē), meaning “spear” or “lance,” is a significant term in both biblical and classical contexts. Its appearance in John 19:34 marks a critical moment in the New Testament, fulfilling prophecy and symbolizing Jesus’ sacrificial death. Understanding this word enriches one’s comprehension of ancient military practices and theological concepts, bridging the gap between historical events and spiritual insights.

Did You Know?

• Fact 1: The Greek word λόγχη is believed to have been borrowed from military terminology in everyday Greek, reflecting the prevalence of warfare in ancient cultures.
• Fact 2: In medieval Christian art, the spear, or λόγχη, that pierced Christ’s side became known as the “Holy Lance” or “Spear of Destiny.”
• Fact 3: The flowing of blood and water from Jesus’ side after being pierced by the λόγχη is often interpreted as a symbol of the sacraments of the Eucharist and Baptism in Christian theology.