G3775

Unveiling the Word

The Greek word οὖς (ous) translates to “ear” in English and refers specifically to the organ of hearing. Its significance extends beyond the physical aspect of hearing; it is often associated with the concepts of listening, understanding, and responsiveness to divine messages or teachings. In Matthew 10:27, for example, Jesus speaks about what He has told His disciples in private, indicating that those who have ears (οὖς) should hear the important truths He is imparting. The word reflects not only the biological function of hearing but also the spiritual call to attentiveness and discernment.

Necessary Information

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Greek Word: οὖς (ous) [oos]

Etymology: The term has ancient roots in the Greek language, with cognates found in various Indo-European languages, indicating a common theme of hearing or listening. The word’s etymology underscores the fundamental importance of the sense of hearing in communication and understanding.

Part of Speech: Noun, masculine.

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

Defining Meanings

The primary meanings of οὖς include:

Ear: The most direct translation, referring to the physical organ responsible for hearing.

Hearing: In a broader sense, it can represent the ability to listen and comprehend messages, particularly in spiritual contexts.

Attentiveness: Often used metaphorically to encourage individuals to be attentive to teachings or divine revelations, urging them to act upon what they hear.

Exploring Similar Words

αὐτίκα (aútika) [aw-tee-kah]: Meaning “immediately” or “at once,” this word differs from οὖς, which focuses on the act of hearing rather than the immediacy of action or response.

φωνή (phonḗ) [fo-nee]: This word means “voice” or “sound,” and while it relates to the auditory experience, it emphasizes the source of sound rather than the organ of hearing itself.

ἀκοή (akoí) [ah-koh-ee]: Meaning “hearing” or “auditory perception,” this term highlights the function of listening but is broader in application than the specific anatomical reference of οὖς.

Reviewing the Word’s Morphology

For Nouns:

Case, Number, Gender: οὖς is a masculine noun in the nominative singular case.

Declension: It belongs to the third declension, which includes various forms based on case and number.

Studying Lexicon Insights

A synthesis of insights from various Greek lexicons indicates that οὖς is significant not just in its physical reference to the ear, but also in its spiritual implications. In the New Testament, the word often serves as a prompt for spiritual attentiveness, urging believers to listen and respond to Jesus’ teachings. The theological implications are profound; they underscore the importance of hearing and heeding God’s word. This theme of listening as a spiritual discipline resonates throughout biblical literature, encouraging a posture of humility and openness to divine instruction. The word also appears in classical contexts, highlighting the broader cultural understanding of hearing and its importance in communication and understanding.

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

Tracing Related Scriptures

Matthew 10:27: “What I tell you in the dark, say in the light; and what you hear [οὖς] whispered, proclaim on the housetops.”

Luke 8:8: “And some fell into good soil and grew and yielded a hundredfold.” As he said these things, he called out, “He who has ears [οὖς] to hear, let him hear!”

James 1:19: “Know this, my beloved brothers: let every person be quick to hear [οὖς], slow to speak, slow to anger.”

Analyzing Classical Usage

In classical Greek literature, οὖς is employed in various contexts relating to the act of hearing.

Example 1: Plato, Phaedrus: “The ears [οὖς] are the portals through which wisdom enters the soul.”

Example 2: Aristotle, Rhetoric: “A skilled speaker must appeal to the ears [οὖς] of his audience, ensuring his words resonate.”

Example 3: Sophocles, Oedipus Rex: “With ears [οὖς] attuned to truth, one can discern the hidden realities.”

Septuagint Example 1: Exodus 15:26: “He said, ‘If you will diligently listen [οὖς] to the voice of the Lord your God and do that which is right in his eyes…’”

Septuagint Example 2: Psalms 78:1: “Give ear [οὖς], O my people, to my teaching; incline your ears to the words of my mouth.”

Septuagint Example 3: Isaiah 42:20: “You see many things, but do not observe; your ears [οὖς] are open, but none hears.”

Noteworthy Summary

The Greek word οὖς serves as a significant term in both biblical and classical texts, referring to the ear and embodying themes of hearing, understanding, and attentiveness. Its usage encourages a deeper engagement with spiritual teachings and underscores the importance of listening as a fundamental aspect of faith.

Did You Know?

1. The phrase “he who has ears to hear” appears frequently in the New Testament, emphasizing the necessity of spiritual discernment among believers.

2. In ancient Greek culture, listening was considered a vital skill, essential for learning and personal growth.

3. The connection between the ear and moral conduct is a recurring theme in biblical literature, linking attentiveness with righteousness and understanding.

Strong’s G3775: οὖς (ous) translates as “ear,” highlighting the importance of hearing and understanding, particularly in spiritual contexts that encourage attentiveness to divine messages.