Brief Overview of κιννάμωμον (Strong’s G2792: kinnámōmon)

Unveiling the Word

Understanding Greek words in Biblical studies is essential for a deeper exploration of scripture. The Greek word κιννάμωμον (kinnámōmon), translated as “cinnamon,” is particularly significant due to its connection with wealth, trade, and religious rituals in the ancient world. Mentioned in Revelation 18:13, κιννάμωμον is part of a list of luxury goods that symbolically represent the wealth of the fallen city of Babylon. The mention of κιννάμωμον in the New Testament highlights the cultural and economic context of the Roman Empire and provides insights into the socio-economic background of the early Christian communities.

Necessary Information

Greek Word: κιννάμωμον, transliterated as kinnámōmon [keen-NAH-mo-mon].

Etymology: The word κιννάμωμον is borrowed from Hebrew (qinnāmōn), which itself likely came from a South Asian language due to the origin of cinnamon in Sri Lanka and India. The term reached Greek and subsequently Roman usage as trade with the East became more prevalent.

Part of Speech: κιννάμωμον is a noun in the neuter gender. It is a second declension noun in Greek, following a typical pattern for neuter nouns. It does not have a plural form in the biblical context, as it generally refers to a substance in bulk or an uncountable good.

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Defining Meanings

The primary meaning of κιννάμωμον is “cinnamon,” a fragrant spice derived from the bark of trees in the genus Cinnamomum. In ancient times, cinnamon was highly valued for its use in perfumes, anointing oils, and incense, as well as for its medicinal properties.

The second meaning relates to its symbolic use in the Bible and ancient texts, where cinnamon often represented luxury, wealth, and trade. It was one of the precious commodities brought from distant lands, emphasizing its value and rarity.

A third, more nuanced meaning connects cinnamon with religious and ritualistic practices, as it was an ingredient in the holy anointing oil used in the Tabernacle and Temple, symbolizing sanctity and divine favor.

Exploring Similar Words

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The Greek word θυμίαμα (thymíama) [thy-MEE-ah-ma], meaning “incense,” shares a conceptual connection with κιννάμωμον. Both terms are associated with fragrant substances used in religious rituals. However, θυμίαμα specifically refers to incense burned for its aromatic smoke, while κιννάμωμον is the spice itself.

Another related word is μύρον (mýron) [MOO-ron], meaning “perfume” or “ointment.” Like κιννάμωμον, μύρον is linked to fragrance and was used in anointing and burial practices. However, μύρον can refer to a broader range of aromatic oils and ointments, not just cinnamon.

A third similar term is στακτή (staktḗ) [stak-TEE], meaning “myrrh.” Both κιννάμωμον and στακτή were used in the preparation of sacred anointing oils, but myrrh comes from a resin and has a different scent and symbolic meaning in religious texts.

Reviewing the Word’s Morphology

Case, Number, Gender: κιννάμωμον is a neuter noun and follows the second declension pattern. The cases in singular are:

• Nominative Singular: κιννάμωμον (cinnamon)
• Genitive Singular: κινναμώμου (of cinnamon)
• Dative Singular: κινναμώμῳ (to cinnamon)
• Accusative Singular: κιννάμωμον (cinnamon)

Declension: The declension of κιννάμωμον is as follows:

For a more detailed understanding of Greek grammar, Click here for a beginners guide to reading Greek.

Studying Lexicon Insights

κιννάμωμον is uniformly recognized in lexicons as “cinnamon,” a highly valued spice in antiquity. In the New Testament, it is part of a list of luxury items that symbolize the wealth and opulence of Babylon, as mentioned in Revelation 18:13. The inclusion of κιννάμωμον in this list highlights the extensive trade networks of the Roman Empire and the allure of exotic goods from far-off lands. Theologically, κιννάμωμον represents not just material wealth but also the fleeting nature of earthly riches in contrast to eternal spiritual values. This overview synthesizes insights from BDAG, Thayer’s, LSJ, Vine’s, Strong’s, LEH, and Moulton and Milligan.

Tracing Related Scriptures

Revelation 18:13: “Cargos of cinnamon [κιννάμωμον], spice, incense, myrrh, frankincense, wine, olive oil, fine flour, wheat, cattle and sheep, horses and carriages, and human beings sold as slaves.”

Analyzing Classical Usage

Noteworthy Summary

The Greek word κιννάμωμον, meaning “cinnamon,” holds significant historical, economic, and theological value in both ancient and biblical contexts. It symbolizes luxury and wealth, illustrating the global trade networks of the Roman Empire, while also appearing in sacred contexts like the anointing oil used in the Tabernacle. Understanding κιννάμωμον provides insights into the economic and spiritual dynamics of the ancient world, particularly within the New Testament narrative.

Did You Know?

Cinnamon was once considered more precious than gold and was often a gift fit for kings and deities in ancient times.

The ancient Egyptians used cinnamon in the embalming process, highlighting its importance in both life and death.

The journey to procure cinnamon was perilous, involving long voyages through desert and sea, which only added to its value in antiquity.