Summary
Quick facts
- Strong’s Number
- G5215
- Original Word
- ὕμνος
- Transliteration
- hýmnos
- Pronunciation
- hoom'-nos
- Part of Speech
- noun
- Category
- Unique Words
- Root / Etymology
- apparently from a simpler (obsolete) form of (to celebrate;
- Frequency
- 2×
- Gematria
- 760
Where it appears
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Definition
Strong 1890 probably akin to G103 (ᾄδω); compare H05667); a "hymn" or religious ode (one of the Psalms)
hymn
apparently from a simpler (obsolete) form of (to celebrate;

Commentary
Contributors: · · · ·
Sacred Songs: ὕμνος (Strong's G5215: hymnos) - Divine Musical Expression
Strong's G5215: A solemn song of praise or celebration directed to God, derived from ancient Greek worship traditions. Originally denoting songs to deities or heroes, in Christian context specifically refers to songs expressing direct praise to God. Significant in early church worship practices and continues to shape Christian musical expression.
U- Unveiling the Word
The word ὕμνος (hymnos) represents a specific genre of sacred music that carries deep theological significance. In its primary meaning, it refers to a song of praise specifically directed to deity. While in classical Greek it could refer to songs honoring gods or heroes, in Christian usage it became exclusively associated with songs praising the one true God. The early church adopted this term to distinguish sacred songs that directly addressed and praised God from other forms of musical expression. This understanding continues to influence modern Christian worship, where hymns maintain their distinct character as vehicles for direct divine praise, combining theological depth with musical artistry.
N - Necessary Information
Etymology:
D - Defining Meanings
For compound words: Not applicable as this is a simple noun
Translation Options:
E - Exploring Similar Words
See G5568
See G5603
R - Reviewing the Word's Morphology
Noun Morphological Features:
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In English, the word would transform:
S - Studying Lexicon Insights
The lexicons provide a rich understanding of ὕμνος. BDAG emphasizes its distinctly religious character in Christian usage, while Thayer's highlights its transition from pagan to Christian contexts. LSJ provides extensive classical usage examples, showing its development from general praise songs to specifically religious compositions. Vine's emphasizes its connection to direct praise of God, while Strong's notes its probable derivation from a root meaning "to celebrate." Moulton and Milligan's papyri evidence shows its continued religious significance in Hellenistic culture.
T - Tracing the Scriptures
First appearance:
Ephesians 5:19: "Speaking to yourselves in psalms and [hymns] ὕμνος and spiritual songs, singing and making melody in your heart to the Lord"
Additional References:
Colossians 3:16
A - Analyzing Classical Usage
N - Noteworthy Summary
The ὕμνος represents a crucial element in Christian worship, embodying the church's highest expression of praise to God. Its transformation from a general religious song to a specifically Christian form of worship demonstrates how early believers adapted cultural forms to express their faith in the one true God. The good news of King Jesus is reflected in how hymns continue to proclaim His glory, death, resurrection, and return, making complex theological truths accessible through musical expression.
D - Did You Know?
Strong's G5215: A solemn song of praise or celebration directed to God, derived from ancient Greek worship traditions. Originally denoting songs to deities or heroes, in Christian context specifically refers to songs expressing direct praise to God. Significant in early church worship practices and continues to shape Christian musical expression.