Brief Overview of ἐρυθρός (Strong’s G2063: erythros)

Introduction

Understanding Greek words is essential in Biblical studies as it provides deeper insight into the meanings, nuances, and cultural contexts of the original texts. The Greek word ἐρυθρός (erythros) is particularly significant because it means “red” and is often associated with important biblical locations and symbols, such as the “Red Sea” (Ἐρυθρὰ Θάλασσα). The term also appears in various contexts within ancient Greek literature, where color symbolism held cultural and philosophical importance.

Key Information

• The Greek Word: ἐρυθρός (erythros) [eh-ROO-thros]
• Etymology: Possibly derived from a Proto-Indo-European root h₁rudhrós, meaning “red,” connected to color terms in many Indo-European languages.
• Part of Speech: Adjective; second declension.
• The F.O.G Word Choice: Coming Soon.

Primary Meanings

• Red: Refers to the color red, often used to describe objects, clothing, or natural elements.
• Scarlet: Used interchangeably with “red” in some contexts, especially in describing fabric or dye.
• Red Sea: A specific geographical reference, the “Red Sea” (Ἐρυθρὰ Θάλασσα), significant in biblical and historical contexts.

Similar Words: πορφυροῦς (porphyroús) [por-FY-roos] means “purple” and often denotes a different but similarly rich color used in ancient dyeing. While ἐρυθρός (erythros) is specifically “red,” πορφυροῦς (porphyroús) refers to a color that is closer to purple or crimson, and was often associated with royalty or wealth.

Further Insights: The adjective ἐρυθρός (erythros) follows the second declension pattern for masculine and feminine forms, with a slight variation for the neuter form. Below is the full declension chart for ἐρυθρός:

Click here for a beginner’s guide to reading Greek.

Lexicon Insights

BDAG: ἐρυθρός is defined as “red,” often used in the context of describing the “Red Sea” (Ἐρυθρὰ Θάλασσα). It highlights the term’s geographical significance and possible symbolism in ancient literature and biblical narratives.

Use code: FOG20 here for a 20% discount.

Thayer’s: Describes ἐρυθρός as “red” or “ruddy,” particularly focusing on its use to describe the Red Sea in biblical texts. Thayer also notes its metaphorical uses in descriptions of wine, blood, or garments.

Vine’s Expository Dictionary: Focuses on ἐρυθρός as meaning “red,” particularly in relation to the Red Sea and other natural elements that carry symbolic meanings in Scripture. Vine’s discusses the importance of color symbolism in ancient texts.

LSJ (Liddell-Scott-Jones): Lists ἐρυθρός as “red,” with extensive examples from classical Greek literature where the term describes various red objects, such as stones, flowers, or clothing. It also notes its use in geographic contexts.

Strong’s Exhaustive Concordance: Defines ἐρυθρός as “red” and emphasizes its use in references to the Red Sea in the Bible. Strong’s points out the etymological roots and its occurrence in other classical and biblical texts.

Related Scripture References

• Acts 7:36: “This man led them out, performing wonders and signs in Egypt and at the Red Sea [ἐρυθρᾷ Θαλάσσῃ] and in the wilderness for forty years.”
• Hebrews 11:29: “By faith the people crossed the Red Sea [ἐρυθρὰν Θάλασσαν] as on dry land, but the Egyptians, when they attempted to do the same, were drowned.”

Classical Usage

Septuagint Examples:

Summary of ἐρυθρός (G2063)

In summary, ἐρυθρός (erythros) is a Greek adjective meaning “red.” It is used in the New Testament and the Septuagint to describe the Red Sea, a significant geographical and symbolic location in biblical history. The term is also found in classical Greek literature to describe various red objects, such as garments, natural elements, and celestial phenomena. Understanding the word ἐρυθρός is essential for interpreting biblical texts that use color symbolism, as well as for gaining insights into ancient cultural perceptions of color and its meanings.

Did You Know?

Did you know that the term ἐρυθρός (erythros) is the root for many modern English words related to the color red, such as “erythrocyte” (a type of red blood cell)? This connection illustrates the continuity of language and its enduring influence on modern scientific and medical terminology.