from δέχομαι; the right side or (feminine) hand (as that which usually takes):--right (hand, side).
Transliteration:dexiós
Pronunciation:dex-ee-os'
Detailed Word Study
AI-Generated
Loading Study...
### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek adjective G1188 (δεξιός, *dexiós*) primarily denotes that which is "on the right" or "the right hand/side." Its etymological root is often linked to G1209 (δέχομαι, *dechomai*), meaning "to receive" or "to take," suggesting the right hand as the primary hand used for such actions in ancient cultures. Beyond its literal spatial or anatomical meaning, *dexiós* carries significant symbolic weight, representing strength, skill, honor, authority, favor, blessing, and salvation. In many ancient Near Eastern and Greco-Roman contexts, the right hand was the dominant hand, used for oaths, agreements, and expressions of power, thus imbuing the term with profound cultural and religious connotations.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the New Testament, G1188 (δεξιός) appears frequently, both in its literal and highly symbolic senses.
Literally, it describes physical actions or positions, such as Peter taking the lame man by the "right hand" to heal him ([[Acts 3:7]]) or the command to cut off one's "right hand" if it causes sin ([[Matthew 5:30]]).
However, the most profound and frequent usage of *dexiós* is in its metaphorical application, particularly concerning the exaltation of Jesus Christ. He is repeatedly depicted as being seated "at the right hand of God" (e.g., [[Mark 16:19]], [[Acts 2:33]], [[Romans 8:34]], [[Ephesians 1:20]], [[Colossians 3:1]], [[Hebrews 1:3]], [[Hebrews 8:1]], [[Hebrews 10:12]], [[Hebrews 12:2]], [[1 Peter 3:22]]). This phrase is not merely a spatial description but a profound theological statement affirming Christ's ultimate authority, sovereign power, and co-equality with the Father.
Another significant symbolic use is found in the parable of the sheep and the goats, where the righteous are placed "on His right hand" ([[Matthew 25:33]], [[Matthew 25:34]]), signifying divine favor, blessing, and eternal salvation, in contrast to those on the left. The seven stars in Christ's "right hand" in Revelation ([[Revelation 1:16]], [[Revelation 1:20]]) symbolize His sovereign control and protection over the churches.
### Related Words & Concepts
The primary antonym for G1188 (δεξιός) is G710 (ἀριστερός, *aristeros*), meaning "left," which often carries connotations of lesser importance or disfavor in biblical contexts. In the Old Testament, the Hebrew equivalent `{{H3225}}` (יָמִין, *yamiyn*) similarly denotes the "right hand" and carries parallel symbolic meanings of strength, power, honor, and divine favor (e.g., God's "right hand" delivering Israel, [[Exodus 15:6]]).
Concepts closely associated with *dexiós* include:
* **Authority and Power:** As the dominant hand, it represents strength and dominion.
* **Honor and Exaltation:** Being placed at the right hand signifies the highest position of honor.
* **Divine Favor and Blessing:** The "right hand" is associated with God's approval and provision.
* **Salvation and Judgment:** The separation of the righteous to the right hand in judgment.
* **Intercession:** Christ's position at the right hand of God from which He intercedes for believers.
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of G1188 (δεξιός) is primarily concentrated in its application to the exalted Christ. His enthronement "at the right hand of God" is a cornerstone of New Testament Christology, affirming His:
* **Divine Sovereignty:** It signifies His absolute rule over all creation, having "all authority in heaven and on earth" ([[Matthew 28:18]]).
* **Co-equality with the Father:** This position is not one of subordination but of shared divine glory and power, fulfilling prophecies such as [[Psalm 110:1]].
* **Victorious Accomplishment:** It marks the consummation of His redemptive work—His death, resurrection, and ascension—as He has triumphed over sin and death.
* **Ongoing Ministry:** From this position, Christ intercedes for believers ([[Romans 8:34]]) and exercises His role as High Priest and King.
* **Source of Blessing:** For believers, Christ's position at the right hand of God is the guarantee of their own future resurrection and glorification, as they are "seated with Him in the heavenly places" ([[Ephesians 2:6]]). The "right hand" thus encapsulates God's ultimate power, Christ's supreme exaltation, and the secure hope of the redeemed.
### Summary
G1188 (δεξιός), meaning "right hand" or "right side," transcends its literal definition to convey profound theological truths. While it can describe physical orientation, its most significant biblical usage is symbolic. It consistently represents strength, honor, authority, and divine favor. Preeminently, the phrase "at the right hand of God" describes the exalted position of Jesus Christ, signifying His supreme power, sovereign rule, and ongoing intercession. This position underscores His completed work of redemption and serves as the ultimate guarantee of salvation and blessing for those who believe, making *dexiós* a term laden with eschatological and Christological weight.
TRV