κεφάλαιος (kephalaios)
kephalaios
sum
Quick Reference
- Language
- Koine Greek
- Testament
- New Testament
- Occurrences
- 2 verses
- Root
- —
Word Overview
The neuter noun kephalaion denotes the principal part or summary of a larger whole. Derived from the word for "head," it shifts focus from anatomy to importance, identifying the main point or chief matter within a text or argument.
In Hebrews 8:1, the author uses this term to introduce the core theme of Christ’s high priesthood, calling it the "sum" or essential summary of what has been said. This usage highlights its function as a concise statement of truth that captures the essence of a complex discussion.
The word also carries a financial sense, referring to a total sum or capital amount rather than interest. Acts 22:28 illustrates this when a Roman citizen claims his status by stating he paid a large "sum" for it. This dual meaning connects the idea of primary importance with the concept of a final total.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
The word kephalaion points us toward what truly matters. It is not about minor details or side notes, but the central truth that holds everything together. When we read Scripture, this term helps us identify the main point of a passage, ensuring we do not get lost in the weeds while missing the forest.
In Hebrews 8:1, the author uses this word to summarize the entire argument about Jesus’ priesthood. It serves as a clear anchor for our faith, reminding us that Christ sits at the right hand of God. This focus brings peace, knowing that our hope rests on one solid foundation rather than shifting circumstances.
Even in everyday life, like the Roman citizen in Acts 22:28 who valued his citizenship highly, we see how importance is measured by what we hold dear. For believers, this word invites us to keep our eyes on the essential truths of the gospel, letting them guide our daily walk with confidence and clarity.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 2 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- sum1×
- [The] sum1×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- κεφαλαίου1×
- Κεφάλαιον1×
Key Verses
-
Hebrews 8:1
Now in the things which we are saying, the main point is this: we have such a high priest, who sat down on the right hand of the throne of the Majesty in the heavens,
The author uses kephalaion to signal that the preceding discussion about priesthood culminates in the essential truth of Christ's heavenly session.
-
Acts 22:28
The commanding officer answered, “I bought my citizenship for a great price.” Paul said, “But I was born a Roman.”
This verse illustrates the financial sense of the word, where Paul contrasts his free-born status with the officer's purchased citizenship for a large sum.