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Unveiling the Word

Understanding Greek words is essential in Biblical studies to unlock the nuances of the original texts and gain deeper insights into the message and cultural context. The Greek word ὀκτώ (oktō), meaning “eight,” is a prime example of a simple numerical term carrying significant meaning in various contexts. In Luke 2:21, it refers to the eighth day, the day on which Jewish boys were circumcised according to the law. This day held theological importance, symbolizing covenantal faithfulness and identity. Exploring this word helps us appreciate the role numbers played in biblical texts and their theological implications in both Jewish and early Christian traditions.

Necessary Information

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Greek Word: ὀκτώ (oktō), pronounced ok-TOH.

Etymology: The word ὀκτώ stems from ancient Indo-European roots for the number eight, which is a significant number in many cultures, including Greek and Hebrew traditions. In the Jewish context, the eighth day is traditionally associated with circumcision and new beginnings, rooted in God’s covenant with Abraham.

Part of Speech: Oktō is a cardinal numeral. As a number, it functions adjectivally, modifying nouns by indicating quantity. In the case of Luke 2:21, it is used to specify the day on which Jesus was circumcised, in accordance with Jewish law.

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Defining Meanings

1. Eight (as a number): The primary meaning of oktō is the number eight. It can refer to anything counted in sets of eight, whether objects, days, or people.

2. The eighth day: In Jewish tradition, the eighth day is highly significant as it marks the day for circumcision (Genesis 17:12). This day became synonymous with entering into the Abrahamic covenant and signifies a spiritual new beginning.

Exploring Similar Words

1. ἑπτά (hepta) [pronunciation: hep-TA]: Meaning “seven,” this word signifies completeness or perfection in Jewish and early Christian numerology, differing from oktō, which often signifies renewal or continuation beyond completion.

2. ἕν (hen) [pronunciation: hen]: Meaning “one,” hen is the basic unit and often represents unity or singularity, contrasting with oktō, which is higher on the numerical scale and represents larger quantities or significant periods of time, like the eighth day.

3. δύο (dyo) [pronunciation: DY-oh]: Meaning “two,” dyo refers to duality or partnership, which also contrasts numerically and symbolically with the implications of oktō, especially in its theological contexts.

Reviewing the Word’s Morphology

Since oktō is a numeral, its grammatical usage is relatively straightforward. It does not decline and remains in its root form regardless of its grammatical function in a sentence. It simply serves as a modifier, indicating the number eight. Numerals like oktō can modify singular or plural nouns depending on the context and are most often used in their base form.

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Studying Lexicon Insights

When studying oktō across various lexicons, its meaning as a cardinal number is consistent throughout Greek literature. However, the theological significance of “the eighth day” is a rich concept that appears not only in the Bible but also in later Christian writings. The eighth day symbolizes resurrection and new beginnings, particularly with respect to Christ rising on the first day of the new week (which can also be considered the “eighth day”). This deepens the significance of oktō in Christian theological contexts, representing eternal life and a new creation. Additionally, oktō in classical Greek literature frequently appeared in descriptions of time, cycles, and rituals.

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

Tracing Related Scriptures

1. Luke 2:21: “And when eight [ὀκτώ] days were completed for the circumcision of the child, His name was called Jesus.”

2. Genesis 17:12 (LXX): “And every male among you who is eight [ὀκτώ] days old shall be circumcised.”

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

Analyzing Classical Usage

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

Homer Iliad “Eight (ὀκτώ) ships of men were sent to Troy.”

Herodotus Histories “After eight (ὀκτώ) days of travel, they reached the city.”

Septuagint Genesis 17:12 “Every male child eight (ὀκτώ) days old shall be circumcised.”

Noteworthy Summary

The Greek word ὀκτώ (oktō), meaning “eight,” is more than a simple numeral in the biblical context. In passages such as Luke 2:21, it highlights the importance of the eighth day for circumcision, symbolizing entry into God’s covenant. The word also carries deeper theological connotations, especially in early Christian thought, where the “eighth day” represents new creation, resurrection, and eternal life. Exploring oktō not only aids in understanding specific biblical passages but also opens doors to appreciating broader theological concepts within both Jewish and Christian traditions.

Did You Know?

1. The concept of the “eighth day” became a powerful symbol in early Christianity, often representing the resurrection of Jesus and the beginning of a new creation.

2. The word oktō is derived from ancient Indo-European languages, making it a linguistic bridge to understanding both ancient Greek and Hebrew cultural contexts.

3. In classical Greek literature, oktō was often used to describe time intervals, showing how numbers were integral to organizing life, ritual, and society in the ancient world.