ἀνάθημα (anathēma)
anathēma
a vow offering
Quick Reference
- Language
- Koine Greek
- Testament
- New Testament
- Occurrences
- 1 verses
- Root
- —
Word Overview
The noun anathēma refers to a votive offering, specifically a gift consecrated and deposited in a temple as part of a vow. In the New Testament, it appears only once, in Luke 21:5, where Jesus observes the elaborate decorations adorning the Jerusalem Temple. The term denotes a tangible object set aside for sacred use, reflecting a practice common in the ancient world where worshippers dedicated items to honor a deity.
Its roots lie in the idea of something "set up" or "hung up" in a holy place. While later Christian tradition often used this word to mean a cursed thing or heresy, its original biblical usage is neutral and descriptive. It simply marks an item that has been removed from ordinary commerce and given over to divine service, serving as a physical reminder of a promise made to God.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
The word anathēma describes a gift set aside for God, often as part of a vow or promise. In Luke 21:5, Jesus notices these beautiful stones and offerings adorning the temple. These items were not just decorations; they were tangible signs of devotion, marking something as holy and separate from ordinary use.
This reminds us that our lives can also be dedicated to God. When we offer our time, talents, or resources with a sincere heart, we are setting apart what is ours for His purposes. It is a simple act of trust, showing that we value our relationship with Him above all else.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 1 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- with consecrated gifts1×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- ἀναθήμασιν1×
Key Verses
-
Luke 21:5
As some were talking about the temple and how it was decorated with beautiful stones and gifts, he said,
This verse shows the word describing physical gifts and stones dedicated to the temple, highlighting their role as visible signs of worship rather than just architectural features.