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Unveiling the Word

In Biblical studies, understanding Greek words like νομίμως (nomimōs) provides essential insight into the text’s original meaning and nuances. This term appears in 1 Timothy 1:8, a letter where Paul provides pastoral instructions. The word nomimōs is important for comprehending the lawful application of rules and conduct, especially in relation to God’s law. It reflects the concept of living and acting “lawfully” or “according to the law,” which has significant theological and cultural implications within both New Testament and ancient Greek contexts.

Necessary Information

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Greek Word: νομίμως (nomimōs), pronounced no-MEE-mos.

Etymology: νομίμως is derived from the root νόμος (nomos), which means “law” or “custom.” The adverbial suffix -ως indicates action in a manner related to the law, signifying “lawfully” or “in accordance with the law.”

Part of Speech: νομίμως is an adverb, describing how an action is performed, particularly in reference to adhering to the law or behaving lawfully.

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Defining Meanings

1. Lawfully or According to the Law: The primary meaning of νομίμως refers to acting in accordance with the law. In 1 Timothy 1:8, Paul uses this term to stress the correct, lawful use of the law, distinguishing between the proper and improper application of God’s commands.

2. Rightfully or Legitimately: The term can also imply doing something rightfully, implying a legitimate or authorized manner of action in accordance with legal or moral standards.

3. Obedient to Law: νομίμως also conveys the idea of acting in obedience to established laws or regulations, emphasizing compliance and submission to authority.

Exploring Similar Words

1. δίκαιος (dikaios) [pronunciation: DEE-kai-os]: Meaning “righteous” or “just,” this word is related to living in a manner that aligns with God’s justice and standards. While νομίμως focuses on legal adherence, δίκαιος emphasizes moral righteousness.

2. ἔννομος (ennomos) [pronunciation: EN-no-mos]: This word, meaning “within the law,” highlights being subject to or living under the law, often used to describe someone under the jurisdiction of the law.

3. νόμιμος (nomimos) [pronunciation: NO-mee-mos]: Similar to νομίμως, this adjective means “legal” or “according to the law,” focusing on the law’s authority over specific actions or persons.

Reviewing the Word’s Morphology

As an adverb, νομίμως modifies verbs, describing how actions should be conducted according to the law. Adverbs in Greek typically do not change their form according to case, number, or gender, and νομίμως follows this pattern. The word retains its singular form, without declension or conjugation, and functions to convey the manner of an action.

For more information on Greek grammar, click here for a beginner’s guide to reading Greek.

Studying Lexicon Insights

According to various Greek lexicons, νομίμως is consistently defined as acting in accordance with the law or in a lawful manner. In classical Greek, the term was often used to indicate proper legal conduct in civic life. In the New Testament, νομίμως carries theological weight, especially in pastoral letters like 1 Timothy. It emphasizes the need for Christians to handle the law correctly, aligning their actions with God’s will and instructions. Lexicons further note that νομίμως draws attention to the legitimacy of action, whether in religious or civic contexts, and can also imply compliance with both divine and human law.

This overview synthesizes insights from BDAG, Thayer’s, LSJ, Vine’s, Strong’s, LEH, and Moulton and Milligan.

Tracing Related Scriptures

1. 1 Timothy 1:8: “But we know that the law is good if one uses it lawfully [νομίμως].”

2. 2 Timothy 2:5: “And also if anyone competes in athletics, he is not crowned unless he competes according to the rules [νομίμως].”

Analyzing Classical Usage

Author Name of Work Text

Plato The Republic “In order for the city to function lawfully [νομίμως], all citizens must adhere to the laws.”

Herodotus Histories “The king ruled lawfully [νομίμως], in accordance with the customs of his people.”

Septuagint Deuteronomy 17:18 “The king shall write for himself a copy of this law lawfully [νομίμως], observing all of it.”

Noteworthy Summary

The word νομίμως in the New Testament carries significant weight, especially when considering its theological implications in pastoral teachings. It emphasizes living and acting in accordance with both divine law and societal regulations. Its occurrences in 1 Timothy 1:8 and 2 Timothy 2:5 highlight the necessity of lawful and rule-abiding behavior for believers, drawing a connection between spiritual obedience and lawful conduct. The word also extends to classical Greek texts, where it represented civic and legal responsibility.

Did You Know?

1. νομίμως was commonly used in classical Greek literature to describe the behavior of citizens who adhered to civic laws and regulations.

2. The New Testament usage of νομίμως emphasizes lawful conduct not only in civil matters but also in relation to God’s law.

3. In athletic competitions of ancient Greece, competing νομίμως—according to the rules—was a key requirement for receiving the victor’s crown, as referenced in 2 Timothy 2:5.