Brief Overview of δέρμα (G1192: dérma)

Dérma (pronounced DER-ma) is a Greek noun that means “skin” or “hide.” The word is used in both literal and figurative contexts, primarily to refer to the outer covering of an animal or, by extension, of humans. The term δέρμα is derived from the Greek root δέρω (dérō), which means “to skin” or “to flay,” indicating the process of removing the outer layer of skin or hide from an animal. The word δέρμα is closely associated with the materials used in ancient times for various practical purposes, such as making parchment, clothing, or other items from animal hides.

Root Word and Part of Speech:

• Root Word: δέρω (dérō), meaning “to skin” or “to flay.”
• Part of Speech: Noun, Neuter.

Primary Meanings:

• Skin: The most direct meaning of δέρμα is “skin,” referring to the outer layer of an animal or human body.
• Hide: The term is also used to refer to the hide of an animal, particularly in contexts where the skin has been removed and prepared for use in making leather goods, parchment, or other items.

Scripture References

δέρμα does not directly appear in the canonical texts of the New Testament. However, its root word δέρω (dérō) is used in contexts related to the act of skinning or flaying, which is conceptually related to δέρμα.

Detailed Description

BDAG (A Greek-English Lexicon of the New Testament and Other Early Christian Literature) defines δέρμα as “skin” or “hide,” focusing on its use in describing the outer covering of an animal or human. BDAG emphasizes that δέρμα is closely related to the act of flaying or removing the skin, which is where the term derives its meaning. The lexicon also notes that δέρμα could be used metaphorically to describe something superficial or external, though this is less common.

Thayer’s Greek Lexicon provides a similar definition, describing δέρμα as “skin” or “hide,” particularly in contexts where it refers to the material used for practical purposes, such as making leather or parchment. Thayer’s highlights the connection between δέρμα and its root verb δέρω, which involves the act of skinning.

Vine’s Expository Dictionary supports this understanding, noting that δέρμα is primarily used to refer to the skin or hide of an animal. Vine’s also explains that in ancient times, δέρμα was a valuable resource for making various goods, and the process of flaying animals to obtain their hides was a common practice.

Strong’s Exhaustive Concordance provides a concise definition of δέρμα as “skin” or “hide,” focusing on its literal meaning and connection to the process of flaying or removing the skin from an animal.

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Usage in Classical Greek Literature

1. Homer’s “Iliad”: The term δέρμα is used in the context of describing the armor or coverings made from animal hides. The use of animal skins for protection or clothing is mentioned in several instances throughout the epic.
2. Herodotus’ “Histories”: Herodotus describes the use of animal hides in various cultural practices, including the making of shields, tents, and clothing. The term δέρμα would be applicable in these descriptions of ancient life.
3. Aristophanes’ “The Clouds”: In this comedy, Aristophanes uses δέρμα metaphorically to describe the outward appearance of a character, playing on the idea of superficiality and what lies beneath the surface.

Summary

Dérma (G1192) is a Greek noun meaning “skin” or “hide,” derived from the root verb δέρω (dérō), which means “to skin” or “to flay.” The term is used primarily to describe the outer covering of an animal or human body and is closely associated with the process of removing and preparing animal skins for practical use, such as making leather goods or parchment. While δέρμα does not appear directly in the New Testament, it is a significant term in understanding ancient practices related to animal husbandry and the production of materials from animal hides. Classical Greek literature reflects the importance of δέρμα in various contexts, from practical uses to metaphorical expressions, highlighting its role in both everyday life and literary symbolism.