NAS Word Usage – Total:

1. ninety nine

The Origin of “Ennenekontaennea”

The Greek word “Ennenekontaennea” (pronounced en-ne-ne-kon-ta-en-ne-a) can be broken down into its components for a clearer understanding. The prefix “ennenekonta-” means ninety, and the suffix “-ennea” means nine. Together, “Ennenekontaennea” translates to the number ninety-nine (99).

In Greek, numbers can be written either as words or numerically. It is common in ancient texts, including the Bible, to find numbers written out fully as words. This often signifies importance or emphasis within the text, as the long-form writing of numbers required more effort and thus conveyed a sense of significance.

The Biblical Context of “Ennenekontaennea”

The Parable of the Lost Sheep

One of the most notable appearances of “Ennenekontaennea” is in the New Testament, specifically within the Parable of the Lost Sheep. This parable is found in two main passages: Matthew 18:12-14 and Luke 15:3-7. Both passages tell a similar story, but let’s look at them to understand the usage and importance of “Ennenekontaennea.”

Matthew 18:12-14 (NIV): “What do you think? If a man owns a hundred sheep, and one of them wanders away, will he not leave the ninety-nine on the hills and go to look for the one that wandered off? And if he finds it, truly I tell you, he is happier about that one sheep than about the ninety-nine that did not wander off. In the same way, your Father in heaven is not willing that any of these little ones should perish.”

Luke 15:3-7 (NIV): Then Jesus told them this parable: “Suppose one of you has a hundred sheep and loses one of them. Doesn’t he leave the ninety-nine in the open country and go after the lost sheep until he finds it? And when he finds it, he joyfully puts it on his shoulders and goes home. Then he calls his friends and neighbors together and says, ‘Rejoice with me; I have found my lost sheep.’ I tell you that in the same way there will be more rejoicing in heaven over one sinner who repents than over ninety-nine righteous persons who do not need to repent.”

Understanding the Parable

In both passages, “Ennenekontaennea” (ninety-nine) represents the majority of the flock that remains safe and secure. The parable, told by Jesus, uses the number ninety-nine to emphasize the shepherd’s great concern for even just one lost sheep. The shepherd’s willingness to leave the ninety-nine to search for the one lost sheep illustrates God’s deep care and compassion for every individual.

This story is more than just a tale about sheep; it is a teaching about God’s love and the value of repentance. The focus on the “Ennenekontaennea” highlights the contrast between the many and the one, showing that each individual is precious and worth seeking out.

Symbolism and Lessons from “Ennenekontaennea”

Symbol of God’s Grace

The use of the number ninety-nine in the Bible isn’t just random. It holds symbolic meaning, often representing fullness or completeness minus one. In the context of the parable, the ninety-nine symbolize those who are already righteous or secure in their faith. The act of the shepherd leaving the ninety-nine to find the one lost sheep portrays God’s grace and relentless pursuit of every lost soul.

Importance of Individuals

“Ennenekontaennea” underscores a pivotal message in Christianity: every individual is important to God. The ninety-nine sheep are safe, but the shepherd doesn’t consider his job done while one remains lost. This teaches that no one is unimportant or beyond God’s reach. It is a reminder of the inclusive nature of God’s kingdom, where every person counts.

Repentance and Joy

The parable concludes with rejoicing over the found sheep. Luk 15:7 emphasizes the joy in heaven over one sinner who repents. This highlights the joy and celebration that occurs when someone returns to God. The ninety-nine are important, but the great celebration is reserved for the lost sheep coming home.

Other Instances of Large Numbers in the Bible

While “Ennenekontaennea” itself specifically appears in the context of the Parable of the Lost Sheep, the Bible frequently uses large numbers to convey meaning. Each number carries specific connotations in biblical literature. For example:

• The Number 40: Often signifies a period of testing or trial, such as the Israelites wandering for 40 years in the desert.
• The Number 7: Represents completeness or perfection as in the seven days of creation.

In all these instances, understanding the numerical symbolism helps us grasp the deeper meanings of biblical texts.

Conclusion

Understanding the meaning of “Ennenekontaennea” in Greek within the context of the Bible enriches our comprehension of biblical teachings and emphasizes the overarching messages of God’s love, grace, and the importance of individuals. The Parable of the Lost Sheep, with its focus on the ninety-nine (Ennenekontaennea) and the one lost sheep, beautifully illustrates God’s personal care for each person and the joy that comes with repentance.

Next time you read this parable or encounter large numbers in the Bible, remember that these figures are more than just numerical values; they are imbued with rich meaning and significance designed to teach and inspire faith.