Ἰεζαβήλ
Jezabel (i.e. Jezebel), a Tyrian woman (used as a synonym of a termagant or false teacher)
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Jezabel (i.e. Jezebel), a Tyrian woman (used as a synonym of a termagant or false teacher)
Ἰεζαβήλ(Iezabḗl)
Strong’s Definition
Jezabel (i.e. Jezebel), a Tyrian woman (used as a synonym of a termagant or false teacher)
of Hebrew origin (H348);
“Notwithstanding I have a few things against thee, because thou sufferest that woman Jezebel, which calleth herself a prophetess, to teach and to seduce my servants to commit fornication, and to eat things sacrificed unto idols.”
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Introduction
Understanding Greek words in Biblical studies is essential for grasping the depth and context of the scriptures. The Greek word Ἰεζάβελ (Iezabel), translated as "Jezebel," is particularly significant due to its strong association with idolatry, manipulation, and rebellion against God. The name Jezebel appears in both the Old Testament, referring to a notorious queen of Israel, and the New Testament, symbolically representing a corrupting influence within the early church. Exploring this word helps us understand the broader narrative of spiritual infidelity and the challenges faced by the early Christian communities.
Key Information
Primary Meanings
Similar Words: Ἰεζάβελ is closely related to words describing idolatry, rebellion, and spiritual corruption. Another related Greek word is ἀποστασία (apostasia), meaning "rebellion" or "defection," which similarly carries the idea of turning away from the true faith.
Further Insights: Ἰεζάβελ is a proper noun and does not have a declension pattern like regular nouns. It appears in both historical narratives (as in the Old Testament) and metaphorical contexts (as in the New Testament). The word carries a significant negative connotation, often used to describe anyone perceived as corrupting or leading others astray from true worship.
Click here for a beginners guide to reading Greek: Click here for a beginners guide to reading Greek.
Lexicon Insights
BDAG: The lexicon defines Ἰεζάβελ as the wife of Ahab, who promoted Baal worship in Israel, becoming synonymous with idolatry and apostasy. In Revelation 2:20, it is used symbolically to refer to a woman in the church at Thyatira who misled believers into immorality and idolatry.
Thayers: Thayer’s lexicon emphasizes the figurative use of Ἰεζάβελ in the New Testament, indicating a person leading others into error and sin. It points out her infamous role in the Old Testament as a queen who caused Israel to stray from worshiping Yahweh.
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Vines: Vines Expository Dictionary highlights that Ἰεζάβελ is often used metaphorically to indicate a spirit of rebellion against divine authority. The entry focuses on her role in the early Christian context, representing a false prophetess who seduced believers.
LSJ: The Liddell-Scott-Jones lexicon provides a more general definition of Ἰεζάβελ as "Jezebel," noting its Biblical associations with wickedness, idolatry, and deception. It emphasizes its usage as a symbol of moral and spiritual corruption.
Strong's Exhaustive Concordance: Strong's defines Ἰεζάβελ (G2403) as a reference to the wife of Ahab in the Old Testament and the symbolic figure in Revelation who leads the church into sin.
Related Scripture References
Classical Usage
The word Ἰεζάβελ does not appear in classical Greek literature but is found in the Septuagint (the Greek translation of the Hebrew Bible). Here are examples from the Septuagint:
Summary of Ἰεζάβελ (G2403)
The Greek word Ἰεζάβελ (Iezabel), meaning "Jezebel," is loaded with negative connotations and historical significance. It symbolizes rebellion against God, idolatry, and moral corruption, stemming from the notorious figure of Queen Jezebel in the Old Testament. In the New Testament, it represents a corrupting influence within the early church, urging believers to stray from true worship. This word provides profound insights into the Biblical portrayal of spiritual fidelity and the dangers of deviating from divine teachings.
Did You Know?
This comprehensive overview of Ἰεζάβελ (Iezabel) offers a detailed understanding of its use, significance, and implications within Biblical texts, serving as a bridge between ancient narratives and contemporary interpretations.