NAS Word Usage – Total: 4

1. adapted to the genius or customs of a people, peculiar to a people, national
2. suited to the manners or language of foreigners, strange, foreign
3. in the NT savouring of the nature of pagans, alien to the worship of the true God, heathenish
   1. of the pagan, the Gentile

Understanding “Ethnikos” in Greek

The Bible, originally written in Hebrew and Greek, contains a rich tapestry of words and phrases that give insight into the cultures and beliefs of ancient societies. One such word is “Ethnikos,” a Greek term that appears in several New Testament passages. To truly appreciate its significance, we need to dissect its meaning, its context in Greek scriptures, and its implications for modern readers.

Etymology and Basic Meaning

The Greek word “Ethnikos” (ἔθνηκος) derives from the root word “ethnos” (ἔθνος), which means “nation” or “people.” In a broad sense, “Ethnikos” can be translated as “national” or “pertaining to a group or nation.” However, when it comes to its usage in the Bible, its meaning becomes more specific and nuanced.

“Ethnikos” in the Context of the Bible

In the Old and New Testaments, “Ethnikos” is typically used to refer to non-Jewish people or Gentiles. In ancient Jewish culture, there was a strong distinction between the Jewish people, who were seen as God’s chosen nation, and the Gentiles. The term “Ethnikos” thus often carried connotations of foreignness, paganism, or non-conformity to Jewish laws and customs.

For instance, in the Gospel of Matthew 18:17, Jesus says, “And if he shall neglect to hear them, tell it unto the church: but if he neglect to hear the church, let him be unto thee as an heathen man and a publican.” The word “heathen man” here is translated from “Ethnikos.” This usage emphasizes exclusion from the religious community.

How “Ethnikos” Shapes Biblical Interpretation

Understanding the word “Ethnikos” helps us grasp the cultural and religious dynamics of biblical times. Jews saw themselves distinct from “Ethnikos” which underscores passages in the Bible dealing with issues like purity, worship, and community relations.

The Apostolic Outreach to the Gentiles

One of the key shifts in the New Testament is the outreach to the Gentiles. The Apostle Paul, in particular, championed the idea that the message of Jesus Christ was for all people, including “Ethnikos.” Passages like Galatians 3:28 resonate with this egalitarian view: “There is neither Jew nor Greek, there is neither bond nor free, there is neither male nor female: for ye are all one in Christ Jesus.”

Jesus’ Teachings

Jesus himself interacted with “Ethnikos” in ways that were sometimes surprising to his followers. The encounter with the Syrophoenician woman (Mark 7:24–30) is a notable example. Initially, Jesus seems to express the Jewish perspective of separation, but ultimately he extends his healing power to a Gentile, signaling a broader mission.

The Role of “Ethnikos” in Early Christian Communities

Early Christian writers grappled with the inclusion of “Ethnikos” into what had been predominantly a Jewish religious movement. The Jerusalem Council (Acts 15) addressed whether Gentile converts needed to adhere to Jewish law. The resolution, influenced by Peter and James, suggested that faith in Christ, rather than cultural identity, was the core of this new community.

“Ethnikos” in Historical and Cultural Context

To fully appreciate “Ethnikos,” we must consider the broader Greco-Roman world. The Roman Empire comprised various “ethnoi” (nations), each with its customs and religions. Jews, who were a minority in many cities, often found themselves navigating a multicultural environment. The term “Ethnikos” thus embodied the tension between maintaining a distinct identity and engaging with a pluralistic society.

Theological Implications

The transition from seeing Gentiles as outsiders (“Ethnikos”) to embracing them as part of God’s plan marks a pivotal theological shift. This change underscores key Christian themes like grace, mercy, and the universality of salvation. By understanding the original context of “Ethnikos,” modern readers can better appreciate these theological principles.

Modern Reflections

In contemporary times, the discussion around “Ethnikos” invites us to reflect on issues of inclusion and diversity within faith communities. The early church’s move toward inclusivity serves as a guiding principle for modern believers, urging them to transcend cultural and ethnic boundaries in their worship and fellowship.

Conclusion

The Greek word “Ethnikos,” while seemingly straightforward, contains layers of meaning and significance in the context of the Bible. From its roots in Greek culture to its nuanced usage in Jewish and Christian texts, understanding “Ethnikos” enriches our reading and appreciation of the Scriptures. It helps us to comprehend the historical and religious settings of the Bible, the transformative message of the New Testament, and the enduring call for inclusivity and unity in faith communities. By exploring the meaning of “Ethnikos” in the Bible, we gain deeper insight into the power and purpose of these ancient, yet timeless, sacred texts.