probably akin to the base of ἀκμήν ("acid"); keen; by analogy, rapid:--sharp, swift.
Transliteration:oxýs
Pronunciation:oz-oos'
Detailed Word Study
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek adjective ὀξύς (oxýs), Strong's number `{{G3691}}`, carries a primary meaning of "keen" or "sharp." Its etymological root is likely connected to ἀκμήν (akmēn), signifying a point, edge, or peak, and also relating to "acid," which underscores the quality of sharpness, acuteness, or intensity. From this literal sense of a sharp edge or point, the semantic range extends by analogy to encompass "rapid" or "swift." This analogical extension arises from the idea that which is sharp or keen is often also quick or incisive in action, whether physically (a swift blade) or mentally (a sharp mind). Thus, ὀξύς can describe both the physical quality of an edge and the temporal quality of speed or celerity.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the New Testament, ὀξύς appears exclusively in the book of Revelation, consistently conveying the meaning of "sharp." It is never directly used to denote "swift" or "rapid" in a temporal sense within the biblical text, though that meaning is part of its broader classical Greek semantic range. Each occurrence emphasizes the piercing and decisive nature of the object described:
* In [[Revelation 1:16]] and [[Revelation 2:12]], ὀξύς describes the "sharp two-edged sword" (ῥομφαία δίστομος ὀξεῖα) that proceeds from the mouth of the glorified Christ. This imagery powerfully symbolizes the penetrating and decisive Word of God, which judges with ultimate authority and discernment. The sword is "two-edged," signifying its ability to cut both ways, exposing inner thoughts and intentions.
* In [[Revelation 14:14]], [[Revelation 14:17]], and [[Revelation 14:18]], ὀξύς is used to describe the "sharp sickle" (δρέπανον ὀξύ). This imagery is central to the harvest metaphors in Revelation, representing the decisive action of divine judgment, whether gathering the righteous or reaping the wicked for wrath. The sharpness of the sickle underscores the finality and effectiveness of this eschatological act.
Across these contexts, ὀξύς consistently highlights an attribute of keenness, precision, and the capacity for decisive action, particularly in the realm of divine judgment and the power of Christ's word.
### Related Words & Concepts
The concept conveyed by ὀξύς in the biblical text is closely related to several other terms and ideas.
* **Instruments of Judgment:** The words for "sword" (ῥομφαία, `{{G4501}}`, and μάχαιρα, `{{G3162}}`) and "sickle" (δρέπανον, `{{G1193}}`) are inherently linked, as ὀξύς describes their essential quality in the context of divine action.
* **Discernment and Penetration:** While ὀξύς itself is not used in [[Hebrews 4:12]], the description of the "word of God" as "sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing to the division of soul and spirit, of joints and of marrow, and discerning the thoughts and intentions of the heart" (τομεώτερος ὑπὲρ πᾶσαν μάχαιραν δίστομον καὶ διικνούμενος ἄχρι μερισμοῦ ψυχῆς τε καὶ πνεύματος, ἁρμῶν τε καὶ μυελῶν, καὶ κριτικὸς ἐνθυμήσεων καὶ ἐννοιῶν καρδίας) reflects the theological implications of "sharpness" as applied to divine truth and judgment.
* **Hebrew Equivalents:** In the Old Testament, Hebrew words like חַד (chad, `{{H2719}}`), meaning "sharp," or שָׁנַן (shanan, `{{H8150}}`), meaning "to sharpen," convey similar physical sharpness, often applied to weapons or tools.
* **Contrast:** The sharpness of ὀξύς stands in stark contrast to concepts of dullness, bluntness, or ineffectiveness, underscoring the absolute efficacy of God's instruments.
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of ὀξύς is profound, particularly given its exclusive use in Revelation to describe attributes of Christ and instruments of divine judgment.
1. **The Incisive Word of Christ:** The "sharp two-edged sword" proceeding from Christ's mouth signifies the power and authority of His spoken word. This is not merely a word of instruction, but one of ultimate judgment, capable of penetrating the deepest recesses of human existence, exposing truth, and executing divine will. It speaks to the absolute efficacy and inescapable nature of God's truth.
2. **Divine Judgment and Justice:** The "sharp sickle" imagery underscores the precision, decisiveness, and finality of God's eschatological judgment. Just as a sharp sickle efficiently cuts, so too will God's judgment be swift and complete, separating the righteous from the wicked and bringing about the culmination of His redemptive and punitive purposes.
3. **Holiness and Purity:** The sharpness can also implicitly suggest the purity and unadulterated nature of divine truth and justice, which cuts through all deception and unrighteousness. It is an instrument of purification and ultimate order.
In essence, ὀξύς serves as a powerful descriptor for the active, penetrating, and decisive nature of God's divine will, particularly as manifested through Christ's authority and the administration of His righteous judgment in the consummation of history.
### Summary
The Greek word ὀξύς (oxýs, `{{G3691}}`) fundamentally means "keen" or "sharp," with an analogical extension to "rapid" or "swift." In its biblical occurrences, found exclusively in the book of Revelation, ὀξύς consistently denotes "sharpness." It is applied to the "two-edged sword" proceeding from the mouth of Christ, symbolizing the penetrating and decisive power of His divine Word and judgment ([[Revelation 1:16]], [[Revelation 2:12]]). It also describes the "sharp sickle" used in the harvest imagery, representing the final, effective, and precise execution of God's judgment upon the earth ([[Revelation 14:14]], [[Revelation 14:17]], [[Revelation 14:18]]). Theologically, ὀξύς underscores the absolute authority, discernment, and unyielding efficacy of God's word and His ultimate acts of justice in the eschatological drama.
TRV