ἐλεφάντινος
elephantinos
made of ivory
Lexicon Entry
Lexicon data from STEPBible TIPNR, Tyndale House, Cambridge. Licensed under CC BY 4.0.
What Original Readers Understood
ExploredThe Greek word ἐλεφάντινος (elephantinos) is a compound adjective derived from the word for elephant (ἐλεφάντης, elephantēs). Its short definition is "made of ivory". This word is used once in the Bible, indicating that it is a rare or specialized term. Given its definition, the word ἐλεφάντινος likely refers to objects or materials that are made from or resemble ivory, such as decorative items, musical instruments, or other luxury goods. The significance of this word lies in its association with wealth and opulence, as ivory was a highly valued material in ancient times. In its single occurrence in the Bible, the word ἐλεφάντινος may be used to describe an object that is prized for its beauty or rarity, highlighting the owner's wealth or status.
Source data & methodology
Occurrences in Scripture
1 total occurrence across the text