of uncertain affinity; the tongue; by implication, a language (specially, one naturally unacquired):--tongue.
Transliteration:glōssa
Pronunciation:gloce-sah'
Detailed Word Study
AI-Generated
Loading Study...
### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek noun γλῶσσα (glōssa, `{{G1100}}`) primarily denotes the physical organ of the mouth, the "tongue." This literal meaning is foundational, representing the instrument of speech and taste. From this anatomical sense, the word extends metonymically to signify "speech" itself, or more specifically, a "language" or "dialect." The semantic range further expands to encompass "people groups" or "nations" identified by their distinct languages, as seen in eschatological visions. Crucially, the Strong's definition highlights a specialized use: "one naturally unacquired," which points directly to the miraculous phenomenon of speaking in languages not learned through natural means. This specific nuance is central to its theological significance within the New Testament.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The term γλῶσσα appears frequently in the New Testament, with its meaning determined by context.
1. **The Physical Organ:** In several instances, γλῶσσα refers to the literal tongue. For example, in [[Luke 16:24]], the rich man in Hades begs for a drop of water to cool his tongue. More profoundly, [[James 3:5-8]] dedicates significant attention to the tongue as a small but powerful member capable of immense good or destructive evil, likening it to a fire that can corrupt the whole body. This highlights the ethical dimension of speech.
2. **Human Language/Dialect:** γλῶσσα is often used to denote a specific human language or dialect. This is evident in the account of Pentecost, where the disciples are heard speaking in the "tongues" (languages) of the various nations present ([[Acts 2:6]], [[Acts 2:11]]). Similarly, the book of Revelation frequently uses γλῶσσα in conjunction with "tribe," "people," and "nation" to describe the universal scope of God's redemption and worship, encompassing all linguistic groups ([[Revelation 5:9]], [[Revelation 7:9]], [[Revelation 13:7]], [[Revelation 14:6]]).
3. **Miraculous Gift of Tongues:** This is arguably the most theologically significant usage.
* **Acts 2 (Pentecost):** The outpouring of the Holy Spirit results in the disciples "speaking in other tongues as the Spirit gave them utterance" ([[Acts 2:4]]). The context strongly suggests these were existing human languages intelligible to the foreign visitors, serving as a sign of God's universal message and the breaking down of linguistic barriers.
* **1 Corinthians 12-14:** Paul extensively discusses the spiritual gift of γλῶσσα within the Corinthian church. Here, the nature of the "tongues" appears more varied. While some instances might refer to known languages, Paul also describes speaking in tongues as speaking "mysteries in the spirit" ([[1 Corinthians 14:2]]), which is unintelligible without interpretation ([[1 Corinthians 14:13]], [[1 Corinthians 14:27]]). He distinguishes between speaking in tongues for personal edification (prayer, praise) and for congregational edification (which requires interpretation to be beneficial). Paul emphasizes that γλῶσσα can be a "sign for unbelievers" ([[1 Corinthians 14:22]]) and stresses the importance of order and intelligibility in corporate worship.
### Related Words & Concepts
The study of γλῶσσα is enriched by its relationship to other terms and theological concepts:
* **λαλέω (laleō, `{{G2980}}`):** "To speak" or "to utter sounds." This verb frequently accompanies γλῶσσα in discussions of the spiritual gift, as in "speaking in tongues" (λαλεῖν γλώσσαις). It highlights the act of vocalization.
* **φωνή (phōnē, `{{G5456}}`):** "Voice," "sound," or "speech." While γλῶσσα refers to the instrument or the specific language, φωνή refers to the audible sound produced, whether human or divine.
* **λόγος (logos, `{{G3056}}`):** "Word," "reason," or "discourse." λόγος often carries a broader semantic weight, encompassing not just utterance but also the content, meaning, or even divine revelation. Paul contrasts the "word of prophecy" with "tongues" in 1 Corinthians 14, emphasizing the intelligibility and direct edification of the former.
* **Charismata (Spiritual Gifts):** γλῶσσα is listed as one of the spiritual gifts (χαρίσματα, `{{G5486}}`) of the Holy Spirit ([[1 Corinthians 12:10]], [[1 Corinthians 12:28]], [[1 Corinthians 12:30]]). It is often paired with the gift of "interpretation of tongues" (ἑρμηνεία γλωσσῶν, `{{G2058}}`).
* **Edification (οἰκοδομή, oikodomē, `{{G3619}}`):** A key concept in Paul's discussion of spiritual gifts. The purpose of γλῶσσα and other gifts is to build up the church.
* **Unity in Diversity:** The phenomenon of tongues at Pentecost symbolizes the Spirit's power to unite diverse peoples under one message, while the discussion in Corinthians highlights the diverse manifestations of the Spirit within the body of Christ.
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of γλῶσσα is multifaceted, encompassing both human responsibility and divine activity.
1. **The Power of Speech:** The physical tongue, as the instrument of speech, is endowed with immense power. As seen in [[James 3]], it can be a source of blessing or cursing, capable of shaping lives and communities. This underscores the moral dimension of human communication and the need for self-control and wisdom in speaking.
2. **Divine Communication and Revelation:** γλῶσσα serves as a conduit for God's communication to humanity. At Pentecost, the speaking in diverse tongues signaled the universal scope of the Gospel, breaking through linguistic and cultural barriers to proclaim the "mighty deeds of God" ([[Acts 2:11]]). This marked a new era of the Spirit's indwelling and empowering presence.
3. **A Sign and a Gift of the Spirit:** The miraculous speaking in unacquired languages is a direct manifestation of the Holy Spirit's power. In Acts, it functions as a divine sign, confirming the presence of the Spirit and validating the apostolic message. In 1 Corinthians, it is presented as a spiritual gift intended for the edification of the church, either personally (in prayer and praise) or corporately (when accompanied by interpretation). It highlights the Spirit's work in empowering believers for worship and ministry.
4. **Eschatological Vision:** The repeated imagery in Revelation of "every tribe and tongue and people and nation" worshipping God ([[Revelation 7:9]]) paints a picture of ultimate redemption and unity. It signifies that the Gospel will transcend all linguistic and cultural divides, culminating in a diverse yet unified chorus of praise before the throne of God. This points to the ultimate purpose of God's plan to gather all peoples to Himself.
### Summary
The Greek word γλῶσσα (glōssa, `{{G1100}}`) holds a rich semantic range in the New Testament, moving from its literal meaning as the physical "tongue" to its metaphorical use as "language" or "dialect," and most notably, to the "miraculous gift of speaking in unacquired languages." Contextual analysis reveals its application in describing the ethical power of human speech ([[James 3]]), the diversity of human languages ([[Revelation 7:9]]), and the extraordinary outpouring of the Holy Spirit at Pentecost ([[Acts 2:4]]). In the Corinthian correspondence, γλῶσσα designates a specific spiritual gift, emphasizing its role in personal edification and, when interpreted, in corporate worship ([[1 Corinthians 14]]). Theologically, γλῶσσα underscores the profound power of human utterance, the Spirit's work in breaking down barriers for the universal proclamation of the Gospel, and the ultimate vision of all linguistic groups united in worship before God's throne. It serves as a powerful reminder of God's diverse yet unifying work through the Spirit in the lives of believers and the church.
TRV