from the same as γενεά; nativity; figuratively, nature:--generation, nature(-ral).
Transliteration:génesis
Pronunciation:ghen'-es-is
Detailed Word Study
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek noun γένεσις (transliterated génesis, `{{G1078}}`) derives from the same root as γενεά (`{{G1074}}`), which speaks to lineage, generation, and birth. Its primary semantic range encompasses "nativity," "birth," "origin," or "beginning." This refers to the act or process of coming into being, the initial point of existence, or the record of such beginnings (e.g., a genealogy). Figuratively, γένεσις extends to denote the "nature" or "constitution" of something, referring to its inherent character or essential quality, that which defines its being from its origin. Thus, it can describe both the moment of inception and the inherent disposition or state that results from that origin.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
While relatively infrequent in the New Testament, the occurrences of γένεσις are profoundly significant.
1. **Matthew 1:1**: "The book of the γένεσις of Jesus Christ, the son of David, the son of Abraham." Here, γένεσις clearly signifies "origin" or "genealogy." It introduces the lineage and birth narrative of Jesus, connecting Him to the foundational promises given to David and Abraham. It is not merely a record of birth but an account of His unique coming into the world, emphasizing His historical and theological roots. This usage directly parallels the Septuagint title for the first book of the Hebrew Bible, *Genesis*, which recounts the origins of the world and humanity.
2. **James 1:23**: "For if anyone is a hearer of the word and not a doer, he is like a man who looks intently at his γένεσις face in a mirror." In this context, γένεσις is used adjectivally (translated "natural" or "actual"), referring to one's "natural face" or the face as it inherently is from birth. It speaks to the physical, inherent constitution of a person, contrasting it with the spiritual transformation that should occur through obedience to God's word. The mirror reveals one's true, unadorned self.
3. **James 3:6**: "And the tongue is a fire, a world of unrighteousness. The tongue is set among our members, defiling the whole body, and setting on fire the τροχὸν τῆς γενέσεως (trochon tēs geneseōs), and is itself set on fire by hell." This phrase, "the τροχὸν τῆς γενέσεως," is often translated as "the course of life" or "the wheel of existence." Here, γένεσις refers to the entire cycle or process of human life from its beginning. The tongue's destructive power is so immense that it can corrupt the entire trajectory and fabric of a person's life, from its very origin to its end. It suggests a corruption of one's entire being and destiny.
### Related Words & Concepts
γένεσις belongs to a rich semantic field related to origin, birth, and coming into being.
* γενεά (`{{G1074}}`): "generation," "race," "lineage." This is the noun from which γένεσις is etymologically linked, highlighting the connection to family lines and the passage of time through generations.
* γίνομαι (`{{G1096}}`): The verbal root meaning "to come into being," "to be born," "to happen," "to become." This foundational verb underscores the dynamic process of existence and creation.
* γένος (`{{G1085}}`): "race," "kind," "stock," "offspring." This term emphasizes the shared characteristics or common origin of a group.
* Concepts such as creation, beginning, origin, lineage, heredity, inherent nature, and the very fabric of existence are all intertwined with γένεσις. It speaks to the initial act that brings something into being and the resulting essence or character.
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of γένεσις is profound, touching upon foundational doctrines:
1. **Divine Origin and Creation**: The most prominent theological resonance of γένεσις is its connection to the ultimate beginning – God's act of creation. The Septuagint's title for the first book of the Bible, *Genesis*, immediately establishes God as the sole Originator of all things. This underscores divine sovereignty and purposeful design in the cosmos.
2. **The Incarnation of Christ**: In [[Matthew 1:1]], γένεσις points to the unique birth and lineage of Jesus Christ. It affirms His true humanity, rooted in historical Israel, while simultaneously hinting at His divine origin and the miraculous nature of His γένεσις as the Son of God. His γένεσις is the pivotal point in redemptive history, the beginning of a new creation.
3. **Human Nature and Sin**: In James, γένεσις speaks to the inherent nature of humanity. [[James 1:23]] refers to one's "natural face," reminding us of our physical and perhaps fallen constitution. More starkly, [[James 3:6]] depicts the tongue's capacity to corrupt the "wheel of γένεσις," implying a defilement of the very course and fabric of human life from its inception. This highlights the pervasive impact of sin on human existence and the need for divine transformation that transcends mere natural disposition.
4. **The Beginning of New Life**: While not explicitly stated with γένεσις itself, the concept of a "new γένεσις" or "new birth" (ἀναγέννησις, `{{G308}}`) is central to Christian theology, signifying the spiritual transformation initiated by God's Spirit.
### Summary
The Greek word γένεσις (`{{G1078}}`) holds a dual significance, denoting both a literal "birth" or "origin" and a figurative "nature" or "constitution." Its usage in the New Testament is limited but impactful, particularly in [[Matthew 1:1]] where it introduces the divine and human γένεσις of Jesus Christ, and in James, where it speaks to the inherent "nature" of humanity ([[James 1:23]]) and the entire "course of life" ([[James 3:6]]). Theologically, γένεσις points to God as the ultimate Originator of all creation, the unique Incarnation of Christ, and the inherent, often fallen, nature of humanity that stands in need of redemption. It is a term that encapsulates beginnings, the unfolding of existence, and the essential character derived from one's origin, urging reflection on the divine authorship of all life.
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