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G1444 · Greek · New Testament
Ἑβραϊκός
Hebraïkos
Adjective
Hebrew (Language/Script)

Definition

The Greek adjective Hebraïkos (Ἑβραϊκός) means 'Hebrew' — pertaining to the Hebrew language, script, or culture. It appears in Luke 23:38 (in some manuscripts) and Revelation 9:11, 16:16 describing inscriptions or names in Hebrew as distinct from Latin or Greek.

Usage & Theological Significance

The appearance of Hebrew language designations in the New Testament is theologically significant. Even in the Greek-dominated Roman world, Hebrew remained the sacred language of covenant and Scripture. Revelation 9:11 gives both the Hebrew and Greek name for the angel of the Abyss (Abaddon/Apollyon), and Revelation 16:16 names Armageddon by its Hebrew designation. John's use of Hebrew names at pivotal eschatological moments signals that the final events of history are deeply rooted in the covenantal history of Israel. The Hebrew language is not merely ethnic heritage — it is the language through which God first spoke His covenant to His people.

Key Bible Verses

Revelation 9:11 They had as king over them the angel of the Abyss, whose name in Hebrew is Abaddon and in Greek is Apollyon.
Revelation 16:16 Then they gathered the kings together to the place that in Hebrew is called Armageddon.
Luke 23:38 There was a written notice above him, which read: THIS IS THE KING OF THE JEWS — written in Aramaic, Latin and Greek.
John 19:20 Many of the Jews read this sign, for the place where Jesus was crucified was near the city, and the sign was written in Aramaic, Latin and Greek.
Acts 21:40 Paul motioned to the crowd. When they were all silent, he said to them in Aramaic...

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