G3585

Unveiling the Word

Understanding Greek words in biblical studies enhances the depth and clarity of scripture interpretation. The word ξύλινος (xylinos), occurring in 2 Timothy 2:20, is particularly significant because it refers to something made of wood. In the context of this verse, it helps to illuminate Paul’s metaphorical teaching on the different vessels in a great house, emphasizing the distinction between materials of higher and lower value. Studying xylinos sheds light not only on biblical interpretation but also on ancient Greek culture and daily life, where wooden objects were ubiquitous and held various levels of significance depending on their purpose.

Necessary Information

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Greek Word: ξύλινος (xylinos), pronounced ksoo-lee-nos.

Etymology: Xylinos is derived from the Greek root ξύλον (xylon), meaning “wood” or “tree.” This root is found in several biblical and non-biblical contexts, often referring to items or structures made of wood, including tools, objects, or even trees themselves.

Part of Speech: Xylinos is an adjective used to describe something that is wooden or made of wood. In 2 Timothy 2:20, it describes vessels made of wood as part of a broader metaphor contrasting vessels of honor (gold and silver) with vessels of common use (wood and clay).

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Defining Meanings

1. Made of Wood: The primary and most straightforward meaning of xylinos is “made of wood.” It describes objects, tools, or vessels that are crafted from wood. In 2 Timothy 2:20, it refers to vessels in a household that are made of wood, implying their lesser value compared to those made of gold or silver.

2. Symbolizing the Common or Ordinary: Metaphorically, in the context of 2 Timothy 2:20, xylinos symbolizes something common or ordinary, especially when contrasted with vessels made of precious materials. The wooden vessels represent items used for less distinguished purposes, while the more precious materials are associated with honorable, more esteemed purposes.

Exploring Similar Words

1. ξύλον (xylon) [pronunciation: ksoo-lon]: This is the root noun from which xylinos derives. Xylon generally refers to wood, a tree, or something made of wood. While xylinos is an adjective, xylon functions as a noun and is often used in contexts like the “wood” of the cross.

2. συντρίβω (syntribō) [pronunciation: soon-tree-boh]: While not directly related to xylinos, this word, meaning “to crush” or “to break,” is often used in contexts involving wooden objects being destroyed or broken down, which can involve items described as xylinos.

3. ξύστης (xystēs) [pronunciation: ksoos-tehs]: A similar-sounding word, though unrelated in meaning, xystēs refers to a polished or planed surface, sometimes associated with woodworking or carpentry.

Reviewing the Word’s Morphology

Case, Number, Gender: Xylinos is an adjective that can modify nouns of various genders, numbers, and cases. For example, in 2 Timothy 2:20, it is used in the nominative singular masculine form (ξύλινον), describing a vessel made of wood. It can be adapted to match the gender and number of the noun it modifies.

Declension: Xylinos follows the regular pattern for second declension adjectives in Greek. Its endings change according to the case and gender of the noun it describes.

For a detailed guide to understanding Greek grammar, click here for a beginners guide to reading Greek.

Studying Lexicon Insights

The word xylinos appears in various contexts throughout biblical and non-biblical Greek literature, where it is used to describe wooden objects or structures. In 2 Timothy 2:20, xylinos forms part of a metaphor contrasting materials that represent different levels of value and honor. Lexicons such as BDAG and LSJ emphasize how xylinos often describes items made for common, everyday use, in contrast to more precious materials like gold and silver. This distinction is important in Paul’s teaching, where xylinos helps to convey the idea of ordinary, perhaps even disposable, items.

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

Tracing Related Scriptures

1. 2 Timothy 2:20: “But in a great house there are not only vessels of gold and silver, but also of wood [ξύλινα] and clay; some for honor and some for dishonor.”

2. Revelation 18:12: “Cargoes of gold, silver, precious stones and pearls; fine linen, purple, silk and scarlet cloth; every sort of citron wood [ξύλου].”

Analyzing Classical Usage

Author Name of Work Text

Herodotus Histories “They built ships of wood (ξύλινος), ready for battle.”

Plato Laws “The city used vessels of wood (ξύλινα) for their everyday needs.”

Septuagint 1 Kings 6:15 “And he lined the walls of the house with boards of cedar (ξύλου).”

Noteworthy Summary

The Greek word xylinos (Strong’s G3585) describes objects made of wood, and in 2 Timothy 2:20, it plays a key role in Paul’s metaphor contrasting vessels of honor with those of lesser value. The word not only provides insight into ancient material culture but also deepens the theological meaning of the text, where it symbolizes something ordinary or common. By understanding the significance of xylinos within its biblical and historical contexts, readers can grasp its layered implications in both everyday life and spiritual teaching.

Did You Know?

1. Xylinos is related to the Greek word xylon, which is used to describe the wood of the cross on which Jesus was crucified.

2. Wooden vessels, often described as xylinos, were common in both Greek and Roman households, used for everyday purposes like carrying water or storing food.

3. The adjective xylinos can also be found in classical Greek texts, where it refers to ships, tools, and other wooden constructions.