Brief Overview of ἀνάθημα (Strong’s G334:)

ἀνάθημα (anáthēma) is a Greek noun that primarily means:

1. Accursed Thing: In biblical contexts, it refers to something that is devoted to destruction or dedicated to God in a way that is considered irrevocable or cursed.
2. Curse or Excommunication: It can denote a curse or excommunication, especially in religious or ceremonial contexts.

Detailed Overview with Concordances

1. BDAG (A Greek-English Lexicon of the New Testament and Other Early Christian Literature):

• BDAG defines ἀνάθημα as “a thing devoted or dedicated to God, especially under a ban” or “a curse.” It highlights the term’s use in contexts where something is set apart for destruction or dedicated in a manner that excludes it from normal use. This can imply both a dedication that leads to destruction and a formal curse.

2. LSJ (Liddell-Scott-Jones Greek-English Lexicon):

• LSJ describes ἀνάθημα as “something devoted to destruction” or “a curse.” The lexicon notes that it can also mean something dedicated to God in such a way that it is removed from ordinary use, often implying a strong negative connotation.

3. Thayer’s Greek Lexicon:

• Thayer defines ἀνάθημα as “a thing accursed” or “a curse.” He explains that it refers to something dedicated or devoted in a manner that leads to its destruction or exclusion, reflecting its use in contexts of severe dedication or curse.

4. Strong’s Concordance:

• Strong’s Concordance lists ἀνάθημα as G334 and defines it as “an accursed thing” or “a curse.” It emphasizes the term’s application to things devoted to destruction or set apart in a way that implies condemnation.

Summary:
ἀνάθημα (anáthēma) primarily means “an accursed thing” or “a curse.” BDAG, LSJ, Thayer’s Greek Lexicon, and Strong’s Concordance all highlight its use in contexts involving severe dedication, destruction, or condemnation. The term reflects something that is devoted to God in a manner that excludes it from regular use, often implying a curse or irrevocable ban.

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