of Hebrew origin (the tenth letter of the Hebrew alphabet); "iota", the name of the eighth letter of the Greek alphabet, put (figuratively) for a very small part of anything:--jot.
Transliteration:iōta
Pronunciation:ee-o'-tah
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek noun ἰῶτα (iōta, `{{G2503}}`) refers literally to the eighth letter of the Greek alphabet, iota, which is the smallest letter. Its etymological root is explicitly stated to be of Hebrew origin, directly referencing the tenth letter of the Hebrew alphabet, yod (י), which similarly holds the distinction of being the smallest character in that script. This diminutive size is key to its semantic range. Figuratively, ἰῶτα denotes an extremely small part, an insignificant detail, or the slightest particle of anything. It conveys the idea of something utterly minimal, a "jot" or a "tittle" in English idiom.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The term ἰῶτα (iōta, `{{G2503}}`) appears only once in the New Testament, in a profoundly significant passage from the Sermon on the Mount:
* **[[Matthew 5:18]]**: "For truly, I say to you, until heaven and earth pass away, not an ἰῶτα (iota) or a κεραία (keraia, `{{G2762}}`, "tittle") will pass from the Law until all is accomplished."
In this verse, Jesus employs ἰῶτα in conjunction with κεραία ("tittle" or "stroke") to emphasize the absolute and enduring integrity of the Mosaic Law. The "iota" represents the smallest letter, while the "tittle" refers to an even more minute stroke or a decorative projection on a letter, which could distinguish one letter from another (e.g., differentiating a "daleth" from a "resh" in Hebrew). By stating that not even the smallest part of the Law will pass away until "all is accomplished," Jesus underscores its divine origin, its immutability, and its ultimate fulfillment in His own redemptive work. This statement refutes any notion that He came to abolish the Law, instead affirming its enduring authority and purpose down to its most minute details.
### Related Words & Concepts
The most directly related word is κεραία (keraia, `{{G2762}}`), which is invariably paired with ἰῶτα in [[Matthew 5:18]]. While ἰῶτα refers to the smallest letter, κεραία signifies an even more infinitesimal stroke or embellishment, collectively emphasizing the meticulous precision of the Law. The underlying concept of ἰῶτα is deeply rooted in the Hebrew letter yod (י), which is the smallest letter in the Hebrew alphabet and carries significant theological weight in Jewish tradition, often symbolizing humility and the divine name. The broader context involves νόμος (nomos, `{{G3551}}`), "the Law," which is the subject of Jesus' affirmation. Concepts such as divine authority, scriptural inerrancy, the immutability of God's Word, and the fulfillment of prophecy are all intrinsically linked to the meaning and usage of ἰῶτα.
### Theological Significance
The singular occurrence of ἰῶτα (iōta, `{{G2503}}`) in [[Matthew 5:18]] carries immense theological weight. It serves as a powerful declaration from Jesus regarding the nature and enduring validity of the Old Testament Law.
1. **Divine Authority and Inerrancy**: Jesus' statement affirms that the Law, down to its smallest components, is divinely inspired and authoritative. Not a single "jot" or "tittle" is insignificant or subject to human alteration.
2. **Immutability of God's Word**: The phrase "until heaven and earth pass away" highlights the eternal and unchanging nature of God's revealed will. The Law's principles are as enduring as creation itself.
3. **Fulfillment in Christ**: The crucial clause "until all is accomplished" points to Jesus' role as the one who perfectly fulfills the Law. He did not come to destroy it but to bring it to its intended completion and purpose, both in His life and atoning work. This demonstrates that the Law's demands and prophecies find their ultimate realization in Him.
4. **God's Meticulousness**: The emphasis on the smallest details (iota and tittle) speaks to God's meticulous care and precision in His revelation and His plan for humanity. Every part of His Word is purposeful and significant.
### Summary
The Greek word ἰῶτα (iōta, `{{G2503}}`), meaning "iota" or "jot," refers to the smallest letter of the Greek alphabet, drawing its figurative power from the similarly tiny Hebrew letter yod. Its sole New Testament appearance in [[Matthew 5:18]] is profoundly significant, where Jesus declares that not even an ἰῶτα or a κεραία (tittle) will pass from the Law until all is accomplished. This statement underscores the absolute divine authority, immutable nature, and perfect fulfillment of God's Law in Christ. It conveys the meticulous precision of God's Word and plan, affirming its enduring truth and purpose down to its most minute detail.
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