NAS Word Usage – Total: 163

1. a multitude (whether of men or of beasts) associated or living together
   1. a company, troop, swarm
2. a multitude of individuals of the same nature or genus
   1. the human family
3. a tribe, nation, people group
4. in the OT, foreign nations not worshipping the true God, pagans, Gentiles
5. Paul uses the term for Gentile Christians

The Linguistic Roots of “Ethnos”

To answer the question “What does ethnos in Greek mean in Greek in context of the Bible?” we need to start by exploring its linguistic roots. The term “ethnos” (ἔθνος) originates from ancient Greek, where it was used to refer to a group or a nation. It is closely related to the Latin word “natio,” which also means a nation or people.

In classical Greek literature, “ethnos” was used to describe a group of people who shared a common culture, language, and identity. It wasn’t limited to just a political state or territory, but rather emphasized the collective identity and shared customs of the people.

Ethnos in the Old Testament

Before the New Testament, understanding of the term “ethnos” can be traced back to its Hebrew counterpart “goyim” (גּוֹיִם), which means nations or peoples. In the Old Testament, “goyim” is frequently used to refer to the non-Israelite nations, indicating a separation between the people of Israel and other ethnic groups. For instance, in Genesis 10, the descendants of Noah are divided into different “nations” or “ethnos,” establishing a genealogical framework for various peoples.

The use of “goyim” sets the stage for later New Testament writers, who would often translate this term using “ethnos.” This translation choice helps maintain the continuity between Hebrew and Greek scriptures in referring to various peoples outside of Israel.

Ethnos in the New Testament

In the New Testament, the term “ethnos” appears many times, underscoring its prevalence and importance. A notable usage is found in the Great Commission in Matthew 28:19: “Therefore go and make disciples of all nations (ethnos), baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit.” Here, Jesus commands his disciples to spread the gospel to all nations, indicating that salvation and discipleship are to be extended beyond the Jewish people to all ethnic groups.

Another significant instance is found in Acts 10, where Peter receives a vision that leads him to understand that God’s message is for everyone, not just the Jews. Peter says in Acts 10:34-35, “I now realize how true it is that God does not show favoritism but accepts from every nation (ethnos) the one who fears him and does what is right.” This broadened understanding breaks down ethnic and cultural barriers, promoting the universality of the Christian message.

Theological Implications of Ethnos

The prevalent use of “ethnos” in the New Testament highlights a theological shift from the Old Testament perspective. In the Old Testament, the people of Israel were often seen as a distinct, chosen group in contrast to other nations. However, with the advent of Christ and the spread of the gospel, “ethnos” signifies the embrace of all humanity, transcending ethnic boundaries.

Paul’s letters further emphasize this shift. In Galatians 3:28, Paul writes, “There is neither Jew nor Gentile (ethnos), neither slave nor free, nor is there male and female, for you are all one in Christ Jesus.” Here, “ethnos” represents the inclusion of Gentiles, who were previously seen as outside the covenantal relationship with God. The universal application of Christ’s message signifies the breaking down of divisions and the creation of a new, inclusive community of believers.

Cultural and Social Contexts

Understanding “ethnos” also requires considering the cultural and social contexts of the time. The Roman Empire, which ruled during the New Testament period, was home to a vast diversity of peoples and cultures. The use of “ethnos” reflects the reality of this multicultural environment, where different groups coexisted under Roman authority.

The early Christians, many of whom were Jewish, initially grappled with the inclusion of Gentiles into their faith community. This inclusion sparked various theological debates, as seen in the Council of Jerusalem (Acts 15), where the early Church leaders decided that Gentile converts did not need to fully adhere to Jewish law. The decision underscored the acceptance of different “ethnos,” showcasing the Church’s developing understanding of unity within diversity.

Modern Interpretations and Relevance

The exploration of “ethnos” in the Bible continues to offer valuable insights for contemporary readers, especially in our increasingly globalized world. The biblical emphasis on the inclusion and acceptance of all nations challenges modern communities to embrace diversity and promote unity.

The concept of “ethnos” calls for recognition of different cultural identities while affirming the equal value of all people. This perspective can influence how we approach issues of ethnicity, race, and inclusion in our societies today. Reflecting on the biblical texts, we can strive to build communities that reflect the inclusive love and justice promoted by the teachings of Jesus.

Conclusion

So, what does “ethnos” in Greek mean in Greek in the context of the Bible? It is a term that bridges linguistic, cultural, and theological understandings of people and nations. From its classical Greek roots to its significant role in the New Testament, “ethnos” has shaped our interpretation of the diverse and inclusive nature of the Christian message.

By studying “ethnos,” we gain deeper insights into the biblical call for unity among diverse peoples and the transformative power of the gospel that transcends ethnic boundaries. This understanding continues to resonate with and challenge us to build inclusive communities that reflect the love and acceptance found in the teachings of the Bible.