Brief Overview of σπίλος (Strong’s G4696: spilos)

Strong’s G4696: A masculine noun meaning spot, stain, or blemish. In New Testament usage, it carries both literal and moral significance, particularly in contexts of spiritual purity. Its appearance in Ephesians describes what the church should be without, while 2 Peter uses it to describe moral defects.

U- Unveiling the Word

Σπίλος represents both physical and moral imperfection. In Ephesians 5:27, it appears in Paul’s description of the church that the Messiah is preparing for Himself – one without spot or wrinkle. This imagery draws from marriage customs where the bride would be presented unblemished. In 2 Peter 2:13, it describes moral blemishes in the community. The early church saw this dual usage as emphasizing both the present need for moral purity and the future perfection promised in the Messiah. Today, it continues to remind us of our call to holiness and Christ’s purifying work.

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N – Necessary Information

• Greek Word: σπίλος, spilos, /ˈspi.los/
• Pronunciation Guide: “SPEE-los”
• Part of Speech: Masculine Noun

Etymology:

• Root: σπιλ- (spil-) related to marking or staining
• Suffix: -ος (-os) nominal ending
• Related to Proto-Indo-European *spel- (“to split, tear”)

D – Defining Meanings

• Primary meaning: Spot or stain
• Secondary meaning: Moral blemish
• Tertiary meaning: Physical defect

Translation Options:

• Spot – Most common translation
• Blemish – Especially in moral contexts
• Stain – Emphasizing permanent marking

E – Exploring Similar Words

• μῶμος (mōmos) /ˈmɔː.mos/ – Blame, disgrace – See G3470
• ῥυπαρία (rhuparia) /rhy.paˈri.a/ – Filthiness – See G4507
• ἄμωμος (amōmos) /ˈa.mɔː.mos/ – Without blemish – See G299

R – Reviewing the Word’s Morphology

Morphological Features:

• Case: Nominative, Accusative, Genitive, Dative
• Number: Singular, Plural
• Gender: Masculine
• Declension: Second declension

Examples:

• Nominative: σπίλος (spilos)
• Genitive: σπίλου (spilou)
• Dative: σπίλῳ (spilō)
• Plural: σπίλοι (spiloi)

S – Studying Lexicon Insights

BDAG emphasizes both physical and moral applications. Thayer’s notes its use in marriage contexts. LSJ traces its development in classical Greek. Vine’s highlights its significance in ecclesiological contexts. Moulton and Milligan document its use in commercial contexts regarding damaged goods.

T – Tracing the Scriptures

First Appearance:
Ephesians 5:27: “that He might present her to Himself a glorious church, not having spot [σπίλος] or wrinkle or any such thing, but that she should be holy and without blemish.”

Additional References:
2 Peter 2:13

A – Analyzing Classical Usage

N – Noteworthy Summary

Σπίλος reminds us of both our present call to holiness and the Messiah’s promise to present His church spotless. While exposing our imperfections, it ultimately points to Jesus’ transforming work, making us pure and blameless before Him.

D – Did You Know?

• The word was used in ancient textile trade for describing fabric quality
• Early Christian baptismal liturgies referenced removal of spiritual σπίλοι
• It influenced development of Christian perfection doctrines

Strong’s G4696: A masculine noun denoting spot or blemish, used both literally and metaphorically in the New Testament. It appears in contexts emphasizing the church’s call to purity and the Messiah’s work of sanctification.

Part of speech: Masculine Noun

Tags: purity, holiness, church, sanctification, blemish, marriage, Ephesians, Peter, spiritual growth, perfection​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​