The Greek word ephēmería, represented by G2183, refers to the rotational division or class of the Jewish priests' service at the Temple. The base definition describes this as a course, signifying a quotidian rotation distributed by families. This specific term appears 2 times across 2 unique verses in the Bible.
The use of G2183 is found exclusively in the Gospel of Luke, where it establishes the setting for the announcement of the birth of John the Baptist. It is first used to identify Zacharias as a priest G2409 belonging to "the course of Abia" Luke 1:5. This immediately defines the word as a reference to a specific priestly division. The narrative then states that Zacharias was performing his duties "in the order of his course" Luke 1:8, confirming that these divisions determined when a priest would serve before God.
Several related words help clarify the meaning and function of the priestly course:
- G2409 hiereús (a priest): This is the role to which the course system applies. Zacharias is introduced first as a priest before his specific course is named Luke 1:5.
- G2407 hierateúō (to be a priest, i.e. perform his functions): This verb describes the priestly function carried out during a designated course. Zacharias "executed the priest's office" as determined by his rotation Luke 1:8.
- G5010 táxis (regular arrangement... order): This term is paired directly with G2183 to highlight the structured nature of the system. The priestly duty was performed "in the order of his course" Luke 1:8.
The theological weight of G2183 is centered on its illustration of divine order and historical authenticity.
- Order in Worship: The existence of the priestly course demonstrates a divinely recognized and structured system for Temple service. The pairing with táxis (order) in Luke 1:8 emphasizes that the priestly functions were not haphazard but followed a "regular arrangement."
- Historical Context: By specifying Zacharias's identity through his priestly course Luke 1:5, the Gospel narrative is grounded in the concrete, verifiable religious practices of Judaea at that time, setting the stage for the events of salvation history.
In summary, G2183 is a precise term for the rotational divisions that organized priestly service in the Temple. Though used only twice, its appearance in Luke is crucial for establishing an environment of order and historical reality for the events leading to the New Testament. It shows how the duties of a priest G2409 were carried out within a fixed order G5010 as part of their assigned course.
TRV