αὐτόματος
automatos
by itself
Lexicon Entry
Lexicon data from STEPBible TIPNR, Tyndale House, Cambridge. Licensed under CC BY 4.0.
What Original Readers Understood
ExploredThe Greek word αὐτόματος (automatos) is translated as "by itself." Its short definition suggests a sense of independence or self-contained action. This word appears only twice in the Bible, indicating a limited but focused usage. Given its definition, it's likely that αὐτόματος is used to describe a situation or action that occurs without external influence or involvement. This could imply a sense of spontaneity, self-sufficiency, or autonomy. Its rarity in the Bible may suggest that the concept of independence or self-contained action is not a central theme in the text, but rather a specific detail used to convey a particular idea or image. The significance of αὐτόματος lies in its ability to highlight the unique circumstances or characteristics of a situation. By emphasizing the self-contained nature of an action or event, the word draws attention to the internal dynamics or mechanisms at play, rather than external factors or influences. This nuance may be used to create a sense of surprise, irony, or unexpectedness, adding depth and complexity to the narrative or description.
Source data & methodology
Occurrences in Scripture
2 total occurrences across the text
For the earth bears fruit: first the blade, then the ear, then the full grain in the ear.
Acts 12:10When they were past the first and the second guard, they came to the iron gate that leads into the city, which opened to them by itself. They went out, and went down one street, and immediately the angel departed from him.