properly, comparative of βραχύς, but apparently in the sense of (to wield); the arm, i.e. (figuratively) strength:--arm.
Transliteration:brachíōn
Pronunciation:brakh-ee'-own
Detailed Word Study
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek term βραχίων (brachíōn, `{{G1023}}`) literally denotes "the arm," specifically the upper arm. Etymologically, it is noted as a comparative of βραχύς (brachys, "short"), yet its usage in biblical and classical Greek clearly extends beyond mere anatomical description. Its primary semantic range encompasses the idea of "strength," "power," or "might," particularly as manifested through action. The arm, being the instrument through which physical force is exerted and tasks are accomplished, naturally became a powerful metaphor for active power and capability. In the Septuagint (LXX), βραχίων frequently translates the Hebrew word זְרוֹעַ (zeroa', `{{H2220}}`), which similarly carries both the literal meaning of "arm" and the figurative sense of "strength" or "power," especially divine power. Thus, βραχίων signifies not just potential strength, but strength in operation, power wielded and demonstrated.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the New Testament, βραχίων (brachíōn, `{{G1023}}`) appears only once, in [[John 12:38]]. This solitary occurrence is highly significant as it is a direct quotation from the Septuagint version of [[Isaiah 53:1]]: "Lord, who has believed our report? And to whom has the arm of the Lord been revealed?" The context in John's Gospel describes the culmination of Jesus' public ministry, marked by His signs and teachings, yet also by widespread unbelief among the people. John presents this unbelief as a fulfillment of Isaiah's prophecy. The "arm of the Lord" in this context refers to God's active power and redemptive work, specifically as embodied and manifested in Jesus Christ. Despite the mighty works performed by Jesus, which were clear demonstrations of divine power, many refused to believe. The "revelation" of the arm of the Lord implies a visible, undeniable display of God's salvific might, yet it was not recognized or accepted by those who had closed their hearts. This passage highlights the profound paradox of God's power being present and active, yet obscured to those who lack faith.
### Related Words & Concepts
The most significant related word is the Hebrew זְרוֹעַ (zeroa', `{{H2220}}`), which βραχίων (brachíōn, `{{G1023}}`) consistently translates in the Septuagint. Zeroa' is frequently used in the Old Testament to describe God's mighty acts, particularly His power in delivering Israel from Egypt (e.g., "with a strong hand and an outstretched arm," [[Deuteronomy 5:15]], [[Psalm 136:12]]). This strong association with divine deliverance and salvation is crucial for understanding the New Testament usage. Other Greek words related to power include δύναμις (dynamis, `{{G1411}}`), signifying inherent power or ability; κράτος (kratos, `{{G2904}}`), denoting dominion or manifest power; and ἰσχύς (ischys, `{{G2479}}`), referring to physical strength or might. While these terms broadly describe power, βραχίων carries the specific nuance of *active, demonstrated power*, often in a salvific or judgmental context, drawing heavily on the anthropomorphic imagery of God's working hand. The concept of "revelation" is also deeply intertwined, as God's "arm" is not always recognized, requiring spiritual discernment.
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of βραχίων (brachíōn, `{{G1023}}`) is profound, primarily due to its connection with the "arm of the Lord" in the Old Testament and its application to Jesus Christ in the New. It serves as a powerful metaphor for God's sovereign, active, and saving power.
1. **Divine Agency in Salvation:** The "arm of the Lord" consistently signifies God's direct intervention and efficacious power in bringing about salvation and deliverance. From the Exodus to the prophetic promises of restoration, it is the means by which God acts decisively on behalf of His people.
2. **Christ as the Embodiment of God's Power:** In [[John 12:38]], the "arm of the Lord" is revealed in Jesus Christ Himself. His miracles, teachings, and ultimately His crucifixion and resurrection are the ultimate demonstration of God's saving power. Yet, the tragedy highlighted by John is that this divine power, though fully revealed, was largely rejected.
3. **The Paradox of Unbelief:** The question "who has believed our report?" underscores the human capacity for unbelief even in the face of undeniable divine revelation. God's power is not always recognized or accepted by those who witness it, necessitating a spiritual openness that many lacked in Jesus' day.
4. **Sovereignty and Efficacy:** Despite human unbelief, the "arm of the Lord" remains effective. God's redemptive plan progresses according to His sovereign will, even when met with resistance. The arm of the Lord symbolizes the unstoppable nature of His divine purpose.
### Summary
The Greek word βραχίων (brachíōn, `{{G1023}}`), though literally meaning "arm," primarily functions as a potent metaphor for active divine strength and power. Its singular New Testament occurrence in [[John 12:38]] is a direct quotation from [[Isaiah 53:1]] (LXX), where it refers to the "arm of the Lord." This phrase, deeply rooted in the Old Testament concept of God's mighty acts of salvation (often translated from `{{H2220}}`), signifies God's revealed, efficacious power. In the context of Jesus' ministry, the "arm of the Lord" is embodied in Christ Himself, representing God's ultimate salvific work. The theological significance of βραχίων thus lies in its portrayal of God's sovereign and active power in salvation, a power fully revealed in Jesus, yet tragically met with widespread unbelief. It speaks to the enduring truth of God's redemptive might, which accomplishes His purposes despite human resistance.
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