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ἰῶτα (iōta)

iōta

iota

G2503 · Greek · New Testament · 1 verses

Quick Reference

Language
Koine Greek
Testament
New Testament
Occurrences
1 verses
Root
—

Word Overview

The word iōta refers to the smallest letter in the Hebrew alphabet, known as yod. In the New Testament, it appears only once, serving as a metaphor for the tiniest possible detail or part of something. This usage highlights the precision and permanence of divine instruction.

Jesus employs this term in Matthew 5:18 to emphasize that not even the smallest stroke of the Law will pass away until all is accomplished. By choosing such a minute character, the text underscores that every aspect of Scripture holds weight, no matter how insignificant it might seem to human eyes.

The origin of the word traces back to Hebrew, where yod was indeed the smallest letter. Its presence in Greek texts reflects the cultural and linguistic context of first-century Judea, where Jewish traditions and languages intersected. This single occurrence reminds readers of the thoroughness of God's promises.

Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).

What This Word Means for Your Faith

The word iōta represents the smallest letter in the Hebrew alphabet, known as yod. In Matthew 5:18, Jesus uses this tiny character to illustrate that not even the least stroke of a letter will pass from the Law until all is accomplished. This vivid image reminds us that God’s Word is precise and enduring, holding weight in every detail.

For your faith, this offers profound comfort. You can trust that Scripture is reliable and complete. No promise is too small to be fulfilled, and no part of God’s instruction is insignificant. This assurance grounds your hope in the steadfastness of divine truth, rather than in shifting human opinions.

How it's translated

How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 1 verses where it appears, by frequency.

  • iota1×

Forms in the text

The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.

  • ἰῶτα1×

Key Verses

  • Matthew 5:18
    For most certainly, I tell you, until heaven and earth pass away, not even one smallest letter or one tiny pen stroke shall in any way pass away from the law, until all things are accomplished.

    This verse uses iōta to emphasize that even the smallest detail of the Law remains valid until its full purpose is realized.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does the word iōta mean?

Iōta is the Greek transliteration of the Hebrew letter yod, which is the smallest letter in the alphabet. It serves as a metaphor for the tiniest possible detail or part of something.

Where does iōta appear in the New Testament?

It appears only once, in Matthew 5:18. Jesus uses it to highlight the permanence and precision of God’s instruction, stating that not even one iota will pass from the Law.

Why is this word significant for understanding Scripture?

Its use underscores that every aspect of God’s Word holds weight, no matter how small it seems. It assures believers that divine promises are thorough and reliable.

Every Occurrence (1 verses across 1 books)

Matthew 1 verse
Matthew 5:18

For most certainly, I tell you, until heaven and earth pass away, not even one smallest letter or one tiny pen stroke…