ὀξύς
oxus
sharp/swift
Lexicon Entry
Lexicon data from STEPBible TIPNR, Tyndale House, Cambridge. Licensed under CC BY 4.0.
What Original Readers Understood
ExploredThe Greek word ὀξύς (oxus) is a term that conveys a sense of sharpness or swiftness. Its primary definition encompasses these two related concepts, suggesting that it can refer to something that cuts or moves with suddenness. This word is used in various contexts throughout the Bible, appearing a total of eight times. In its usage, ὀξύς is often employed to describe physical or metaphorical edges, such as a sharp knife, a swift sword, or a keen mind. Its range extends to both literal and figurative expressions, showing the versatility of its meaning. By highlighting the sharpness or swiftness of an object or idea, ὀξύς adds depth and nuance to the narrative or poetic passages in which it appears. The significance of ὀξύς lies in its ability to illustrate and convey the intensity or urgency of a particular situation, making it an effective literary device for evoking emotions and creating vivid imagery. Through its varied applications, this word demonstrates the complexity and range of the ancient Greek language, offering insights into the linguistic and aesthetic choices of the biblical authors.
Source data & methodology
Occurrences in Scripture
8 total occurrences across the text
“Their feet are swift to shed blood.
Revelation 1:16He had seven stars in his right hand. Out of his mouth proceeded a sharp two-edged sword. His face was like the sun shining at its brightest.
Revelation 2:12“To the angel of the assembly in Pergamum write: “He who has the sharp two-edged sword says these things:
Revelation 14:14I looked, and saw a white cloud, and on the cloud one sitting like a son of man, having on his head a golden crown, and in his hand a sharp sickle.
Revelation 14:17Another angel came out of the temple which is in heaven. He also had a sharp sickle.
Revelation 14:18Another angel came out from the altar, he who has power over fire, and he called with a great voice to him who had the sharp sickle, saying, “Send your sharp sickle, and gather the clusters of the vine of the earth, for the earth’s grapes are fully ripe!”
Revelation 14:18Another angel came out from the altar, he who has power over fire, and he called with a great voice to him who had the sharp sickle, saying, “Send your sharp sickle, and gather the clusters of the vine of the earth, for the earth’s grapes are fully ripe!”
Revelation 19:15Out of his mouth proceeds a sharp, double-edged sword, that with it he should strike the nations. He will rule them with an iron rod. He treads the wine press of the fierceness of the wrath of God, the Almighty.