The Greek word parthénos, represented by G3933, defines a maiden or, by implication, an unmarried daughter. The term is found 14 times across 13 unique verses in the Bible. Its primary meaning relates to a female who is a virgin.
In scripture, G3933 is used in several significant contexts. It is central to the prophecy of the Messiah's birth, stating, "Behold, a virgin shall be with child" Matthew 1:23. This is fulfilled in the person of Mary, who is explicitly identified as a "virgin espoused to a man whose name was Joseph" Luke 1:27. The word is also used in the Parable of the Ten Virgins who took their lamps to meet the bridegroom Matthew 25:1. Paul discusses the status of virgins in the church, noting he has "no commandment of the Lord" but offers his judgment on the matter 1 Corinthians 7:25. The term can also refer to unmarried daughters, such as the four daughters of Philip who were virgins and prophesied Acts 21:9.
Several related words clarify the context of G3933:
- G22 ágamos (unmarried): This term is used to describe a state of life. In his discussion on marriage and singleness, Paul explains that "The unmarried woman careth for the things of the Lord" 1 Corinthians 7:34, drawing a parallel with the focus of a virgin.
- G1060 gaméō (to wed): This verb describes the action that changes a virgin's status. Paul addresses this directly, stating that "if a virgin marry, she hath not sinned" 1 Corinthians 7:28.
- G1135 gynḗ (a woman; specially, a wife): This word is explicitly contrasted with a virgin to highlight a difference in life circumstances: "There is difference also between a wife and a virgin" 1 Corinthians 7:34.
- G3423 mnēsteúō (espouse): This term describes the state of being betrothed. Mary is described as a "virgin espoused to a man" Luke 1:27, connecting her status as a virgin with her commitment to be married.
The theological weight of G3933 is demonstrated in its literal and metaphorical applications.
- Prophetic Fulfillment: Its most critical use is in the context of the virgin birth of Jesus. The fulfillment of the prophecy that "a virgin shall be with child" Matthew 1:23 is a cornerstone event recorded in the Gospels.
- Symbol of the Church: Paul uses the word as a metaphor for the church's purity and exclusive devotion to Christ. He states he espoused the believers to one husband in order to "present you as a chaste virgin to Christ" 2 Corinthians 11:2.
- A State of Purity and Dedication: In Revelation, those who "follow the Lamb whithersoever he goeth" are described as virgins who "were not defiled with women" Revelation 14:4, using the term to symbolize spiritual purity and consecration to God. Paul also links the state of a virgin with being holy "both in body and in spirit" 1 Corinthians 7:34.
In summary, G3933 carries meaning beyond a simple description of an unmarried maiden. It is fundamental to the biblical account of Christ's birth Matthew 1:23, and it serves as a powerful symbol for the spiritual purity of the church presented to Christ 2 Corinthians 11:2. Furthermore, it is used to describe a state of consecration, both literally in the context of marriage 1 Corinthians 7:25 and figuratively for the redeemed who follow the Lamb Revelation 14:4.
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