Brief Overview of ἔκστασις (Strong’s G1611: ekstasis)

Introduction

Understanding Greek words in Biblical studies is crucial for gaining deeper insights into the texts of the New Testament. Greek, the original language of much of the New Testament, is rich with nuances that can significantly influence how we interpret scripture. One such word is ἔκστασις (ekstasis), which is fascinating due to its complex and multifaceted meanings. This word, often translated as “ecstasy” or “amazement,” holds significance not only in the realm of religious experiences but also in how ancient Greek culture understood states of mind and perception. Its use in the New Testament provides a window into how early Christians viewed extraordinary spiritual experiences and their impact on faith and understanding.

Key Information

• Greek Word: ἔκστασις (ekstasis) [EK-stah-sis]
• Etymology: Derived from the verb ἐξίστημι (existēmi), which means “to stand out” or “to be displaced.” The noun form ἔκστασις literally conveys a state of being outside oneself.
• Part of Speech: Noun (Feminine, Third Declension)
• The F.O.G Word Choice: Coming Soon

Primary Meanings

• Ecstasy – A state of being carried away by overwhelming emotion or spiritual experience.
• Astonishment – A state of being struck with amazement or wonder, often in response to something extraordinary.
• Displacement – A metaphorical or literal movement from one’s usual place or state, often implying a form of transformation.

Similar Words:

• θαῦμα (thauma): Meaning “wonder” or “marvel,” this word is often used similarly to express a reaction of amazement but lacks the connotation of an altered state of consciousness.
• ἔκπληξις (ekplēxis): While this word also conveys astonishment, it tends to emphasize shock or surprise rather than a profound, transformative experience as ἔκστασις does.

Further Insights:

• Morphology: The noun ἔκστασις is part of the third declension, which is characterized by a variety of stem endings in different cases. The word captures a state of being that is not merely emotional but involves a profound alteration of perception or consciousness. Below is the declension chart for ἔκστασις:

Lexicon Insights

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• BDAG: Describes ἔκστασις as an “amazement” or “ecstasy,” emphasizing its use in contexts where individuals experience a profound psychological or spiritual shift, often leading to revelations or visions.
• Thayers: Focuses on the psychological aspect of ἔκστασις, explaining it as a displacement of normal consciousness, often leading to visions or deep spiritual insight. It is linked with divine encounters or overwhelming spiritual experiences.
• Vines: Points out that ἔκστασις is used in the New Testament not only to describe astonishment but also the altered state that accompanies spiritual visions, highlighting the depth of the experience.
• LSJ: Notes that in classical Greek, ἔκστασις could refer to any form of being “out of place” or “standing outside oneself,” but it later took on more specific connotations of ecstatic religious experience.
• Strongs Exhaustive Concordance: Defines ἔκστασις primarily as “amazement” and “ecstasy,” linking it to experiences where individuals are temporarily removed from their normal state of mind.

Scripture References

• Mark 5:42 – “And immediately the girl arose and walked, for she was twelve years of age. And they were overcome with great amazement (ἔκστασις).”
• Acts 10:10 – “And he became hungry and wanted something to eat, but while they were preparing it, he fell into a trance (ἔκστασις).”
• Acts 22:17 – “When I had returned to Jerusalem and was praying in the temple, I fell into a trance (ἔκστασις).”

Classical Usage

Summary of ἔκστασις (G1611: ekstasis)

The Greek word ἔκστασις (ekstasis) is a powerful term that captures the essence of extraordinary spiritual and emotional experiences. It is more than just astonishment; it represents a state where one is transported beyond ordinary perception, often leading to revelations or profound insights. In the New Testament, ἔκστασις is used to describe moments of divine encounter and intense spiritual experiences, making it a key term in understanding how early Christians interpreted and recorded such events. Its use in classical literature also reveals a deep cultural understanding of altered states of consciousness and their significance.

Did You Know?

The concept of ἔκστασις was not only significant in religious contexts but also in Greek philosophy, where it was often discussed in relation to the soul’s ability to transcend the physical world and achieve higher forms of knowledge.