ἥττημα (hēttēma)
hēttēma
loss
Quick Reference
- Language
- Koine Greek
- Testament
- New Testament
- Occurrences
- 2 verses
- Root
- —
Word Overview
The noun hēttēma denotes a state of being diminished or falling short, carrying the specific sense of loss, defeat, or failure. It is derived from the verb meaning to be less than or deficient, pointing to a tangible reduction in value or standing rather than a mere abstract concept.
In the New Testament, this word appears only twice, both within Paul’s letters where it underscores serious spiritual and social consequences. In Romans 11:12, Paul argues that Israel’s temporary failure (hēttēma) has resulted in salvation for the Gentiles, suggesting that even loss can serve a greater redemptive purpose. Similarly, in 1 Corinthians 6:7, he uses the term to describe the shame of believers suing one another, framing such legal disputes as a defeat that disgraces the church community.
The word’s theological weight lies in its contrast with victory or wholeness. It is not simply a mistake but a deficit that impacts the collective witness and individual salvation. Translators typically render it as "loss" or "defeat," capturing the idea that something of value has been forfeited through poor choices or divine allowance for a larger plan.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
The word hēttēma describes a tangible loss or falling short, often carrying the weight of defeat. In Romans 11:12, Paul uses it to describe Israel’s temporary failure, yet he frames this deficit as the means by which riches came to the Gentiles. This perspective invites us to see that even our moments of lack or perceived failure can be woven into a larger story of grace and provision.
Conversely, in 1 Corinthians 6:7, Paul calls lawsuits between believers a hēttēma—a defect that brings shame to the community. Here, the loss is not material but relational and spiritual. Choosing peace over legal victory preserves the witness of the church. We are reminded that preserving unity and loving our neighbors well is far more valuable than winning an argument or a court case.
When we face setbacks, this word encourages us to look beyond the immediate pain. Whether it is a personal loss or a communal disagreement, God can redeem these moments. We are invited to trust that His purposes are not thwarted by our failures, but often advanced through them.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 2 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- failure1×
- a defeat1×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- ἥττημα2×
Key Verses
-
Romans 11:12
Now if their fall is the riches of the world, and their loss the riches of the Gentiles, how much more their fullness!
Paul uses this term to show how Israel's temporary failure became the channel for Gentile salvation.
-
I Corinthians 6:7
Therefore it is already altogether a defect in you that you have lawsuits one with another. Why not rather be wronged? Why not rather be defrauded?
The word highlights that legal disputes among believers are a spiritual defect that disgraces the church community.