### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **Hellēnikós**, represented by `{{G1673}}`, is a specific term meaning **Hellenic, i.e. Grecian (in language)**. It appears only **2 times** in **2 unique verses** in the New Testament. Its function is to identify the Greek language, often in contexts where multiple languages are present, highlighting the multicultural environment of the early church and the Roman Empire.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The two uses of `{{G1673}}` occur in highly significant moments. In Luke's account of the crucifixion, an inscription was written over Jesus in "letters of **Greek**, and Latin, and Hebrew" declaring, "THIS IS THE KING OF THE JEWS" [[Luke 23:38]]. This use underscores the universal nature of the proclamation. In Revelation, the **king** over the bottomless pit, an **angel** named **Abaddon** in the Hebrew tongue, is given a name in the **Greek tongue**: **Apollyon** [[Revelation 9:11]], ensuring the meaning of "a destroyer" is understood by a broader audience.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words provide context for the linguistic and cultural settings where `{{G1673}}` is found:
* `{{G1444}}` **Hebraïkós** (Hebraic or the Jewish language): This word appears directly alongside `{{G1673}}` in the description of the inscription on the cross, establishing the primary languages of religion and culture in the region [[Luke 23:38]].
* `{{G1447}}` **Hebraïstí** (in the Jewish (Chaldee) language): Used as an adverb, this term provides the linguistic parallel to `{{G1673}}` in [[Revelation 9:11]], where the name **Abaddon** is identified as being "in the Hebrew tongue."
* `{{G2453}}` **Ioudaîos** (Judæan, i.e. belonging to Jehudah): This term for **Jew** is central to the declaration written in **Greek** on the cross, identifying the very kingship that was being proclaimed to the nations [[Luke 23:38]].
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of `{{G1673}}` is tied to its role in communication and proclamation.
* **Universal Declaration of Kingship:** Its inclusion on the superscription over the cross signifies that the statement "THIS IS THE KING OF THE JEWS" was not meant for a single people but was declared in the major languages of the era—representing culture (**Greek**), empire (Latin), and religion (Hebrew) [[Luke 23:38]].
* **Clarity in Apocalyptic Prophecy:** In Revelation, providing the name of the destroying **angel** in both Hebrew (**Abaddon**) and **Greek** (**Apollyon**) ensures that the character of this figure is universally understood, bridging the linguistic gap between Jewish and Gentile believers [[Revelation 9:11]].
* **Juxtaposition of Kings:** The word helps contrast two kings. In Luke, it helps proclaim Jesus as the **King** of the **Jews** [[Luke 23:38]]. In Revelation, it is used to name **Apollyon**, the destructive **king** who is the **angel** of the bottomless pit [[Revelation 9:11]], creating a clear distinction between the King of salvation and a king of destruction.
### Summary
In summary, while **Hellēnikós** `{{G1673}}` is used sparingly, it plays a crucial role. It is more than a simple linguistic marker; it is a vehicle for universal proclamation. Its presence on the cross declares Christ's identity to the known world, while its use in Revelation translates a key apocalyptic concept for a diverse audience, demonstrating the Bible's intention to convey its message across cultural and linguistic boundaries.
TRV