The Greek term ἀντίθεσις (antithesis) generally means “opposition” or “contrast.” It is derived from the prefix ἀντί (anti), meaning “against,” and the noun θέσις (thesis), which means “placing” or “position.” The term is used to describe a setting where ideas, arguments, or positions are placed in opposition to one another, highlighting their contrasts.

Detailed Overview

1. Strong’s Concordance: Strong’s defines ἀντίθεσις as “opposition,” emphasizing its use to denote the contrast or setting of one idea or argument against another. It suggests a direct opposition between two contrasting elements.
2. Bauer-Danker-Arndt-Gingrich (BDAG) Greek-English Lexicon: BDAG provides a more comprehensive definition, describing ἀντίθεσις as “a contrast or opposition.” It refers to situations where there is a clear opposition or contrast between different ideas, arguments, or statements. BDAG emphasizes the term’s role in identifying and highlighting oppositional relationships.
3. Liddell-Scott-Jones (LSJ) Greek-English Lexicon: LSJ defines ἀντίθεσις as “a setting in opposition” or “contrast.” It reflects the term’s use in classical literature to describe the placement of contrasting elements against each other.
4. Thayer’s Greek-English Lexicon: Thayer’s lexicon describes ἀντίθεσις as “a contrast” or “opposition.” It indicates the use of the term in contexts where there is a clear opposition between ideas or arguments.

In summary, ἀντίθεσις (antithesis) refers to “opposition” or “contrast,” highlighting the placement of contrasting ideas or arguments against each other. Strong’s provides a basic definition, while BDAG, LSJ, and Thayer’s offer detailed insights into its application in various contexts of opposition and contrast.