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Unveiling the Word

In Biblical studies, understanding the original Greek words can provide deeper insights into Scripture, offering context and clarity that may be lost in translation. One such word is ὀκταήμερος (oktaēmeros), which appears in Philippians 3:5, where Paul describes his Jewish heritage, stating that he was circumcised on the eighth day. This specific reference holds significance not only in understanding Paul’s adherence to Jewish law but also in understanding the broader cultural and religious practices of ancient Israel. The term helps connect the reader with the importance of circumcision in the Jewish faith and its role in covenantal identity.

Necessary Information

Greek Word: ὀκταήμερος (oktaēmeros), pronounced ok-ta-AY-mer-os.

Etymology: The word is a compound of two Greek root words: ὀκτώ (oktō), meaning “eight,” and ἡμέρα (hēmera), meaning “day.” Combined, ὀκταήμερος literally means “of the eighth day.”

Part of Speech: Oktaēmeros is an adjective, typically describing the timing or condition of an event or action occurring on the eighth day, as is seen in the context of circumcision on the eighth day of a boy’s life, which was a practice commanded in Jewish law (Leviticus 12:3).

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

Defining Meanings

1. On the eighth day: This is the primary and most straightforward meaning of ὀκταήμερος. It denotes something happening specifically on the eighth day, with particular reference to the practice of circumcision in Jewish culture. This was significant in identifying one as a member of the covenant community of Israel.

2. Pertaining to the eighth day: In a broader sense, oktaēmeros can describe anything related to the eighth day, whether in religious ceremonies or temporal events. In the Jewish tradition, the eighth day carried symbolic importance, especially in terms of purity and completion.

Exploring Similar Words

1. ἑπταήμερος (heptaēmeros) [pronunciation: hep-ta-AY-mer-os]: This word means “on the seventh day” or “pertaining to the seventh day.” It differs from oktaēmeros by focusing on the number seven, which is commonly associated with Sabbath rest in Jewish tradition.

2. ἡμέρα (hēmera) [pronunciation: hay-MER-ah]: Simply means “day.” It is the root word for oktaēmeros but without the specific numerical connotation of the eighth day.

3. πρωτότοκος (prōtotokos) [pronunciation: pro-TOT-o-kos]: Meaning “firstborn,” it reflects another important aspect of Jewish identity, with specific religious and cultural connotations related to birth and inheritance, though it does not specifically reference timing as oktaēmeros does.

Reviewing the Word’s Morphology

Case, Number, Gender: Oktaēmeros is an adjective that follows the typical patterns of Greek adjectives. It can appear in the nominative, genitive, dative, or accusative cases and can modify masculine, feminine, or neuter nouns, depending on the context of the sentence.

Declension: This word belongs to the second declension in Greek. In its masculine form, oktaēmeros is used in the nominative case, while its endings change appropriately based on case and number when used in various grammatical constructions.

Click here for a beginners guide to reading Greek.

Studying Lexicon Insights

In examining ὀκταήμερος across lexicons, we consistently see that the term directly refers to events happening on the eighth day, particularly in the Jewish context of circumcision. The theological implications are significant, as circumcision on the eighth day was a sign of inclusion into the Abrahamic covenant. The word serves as an identifier of religious observance and faithfulness to the Mosaic Law, with implications for both cultural and theological discussions in the New Testament. Paul’s use of this word in Philippians 3:5 highlights his identity as a Jew fully committed to the law from birth.

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

Tracing Related Scriptures

1. Philippians 3:5: “Circumcised the eighth day [ὀκταήμερος], of the stock of Israel, of the tribe of Benjamin, a Hebrew of the Hebrews; as touching the law, a Pharisee.”

2. Genesis 17:12 (LXX): “And he that is eight days [ὀκταήμερος] old shall be circumcised among you, every male in your generations, he that is born in the house, or bought with money of any stranger, which is not of thy seed.”

3. Leviticus 12:3 (LXX): “And on the eighth day [ὀκταήμερος] the flesh of his foreskin shall be circumcised.”

Analyzing Classical Usage

Author Name of Work English text with the Greek word in parentheses

Philo of Alexandria Special Laws “The circumcision on the eighth day (ὀκταήμερος) symbolizes spiritual purification.”

Josephus Antiquities “Circumcision was ordained to take place on the eighth day (ὀκταήμερος).”

Septuagint Genesis 17:12 “And he that is eight days old (ὀκταήμερος) shall be circumcised.”

Noteworthy Summary

The word ὀκταήμερος (oktaēmeros), meaning “on the eighth day,” is deeply rooted in Jewish religious practices, specifically in the covenantal rite of circumcision. Its use in Philippians 3:5 by Paul underscores his adherence to Jewish law and his qualifications as a Pharisee. The word also reflects broader cultural and religious themes of purification, dedication, and identity in the Jewish tradition. Understanding this term enriches our comprehension of the religious context in which the New Testament was written.

Did You Know?

1. The eighth day for circumcision was believed to be medically significant, as it was thought to be the day when a newborn’s blood clotting ability reached its peak.

2. The Jewish practice of circumcision on the eighth day is one of the oldest known religious rituals, still observed by Jewish communities around the world.

3. Paul’s reference to being circumcised on the eighth day in Philippians 3:5 was a key part of his argument to show his legitimacy and strict observance of Jewish customs.