A hapax legomenon (often abbreviated to hapax) is a word that occurs only once in a document or corpus. The term comes from Greek, meaning “said once”. Hapax legomena are quite common in ancient texts, given that many words may be recorded only once due to the limited size of extant records. They also occur frequently in rapidly evolving fields like technology, where new terms are introduced often.
The Bible contains many hapax legomena, words that appear only once across its entire text. Here is an overview of hapax legomena in the Bible and what they can teach us.
Examples of Biblical Hapax Legomena
Some notable hapax legomena found in the Bible include:
- Behemoth – Mentioned only in Job 40:15, likely referring to a large, powerful land animal.
- Cilicia – Appears only in Acts 6:9, referring to a coastal region in southeast Asia Minor.
- Gethsemane – The garden where Jesus prayed before his crucifixion, mentioned only in Matthew 26:36.
- Mahanaim – Site east of the Jordan River where Jacob saw angels, used only in Genesis 32:2.
- Naaman – Syrian military commander cured of leprosy in 2 Kings 5.
- Phygellus – Person mentioned only in 2 Timothy 1:15.
- Quadrans – Roman coin equal to 1/4 of an as, mentioned only in Matthew 5:26.
- Raca – Derogatory term translated “fool” used only in Matthew 5:22.
There are hundreds more hapax legomena scattered throughout both the Old and New Testaments. Some are simple nouns that refer to obscure places, objects or people. Others are complex theological terms used only once by biblical authors.
Significance of Biblical Hapax Legomena
The presence of hapax legomena in the Bible has some important implications:
- Unique Vocabulary – Many hapax legomena represent words that do not appear in other Hebrew or Greek texts from the same era. This demonstrates the unique vocabulary and themes used by biblical authors.
- Diverse Meanings – Scholars sometimes debate the precise meaning of hapax legomena, given there are no other usages to provide context.
- Authentic Style – The occurrence of hapax legomena is a hallmark of authentic biblical languages. Their presence demonstrates the consistency of biblical documents with other writings of their time.
- Theological Insights – Some hapax legomena convey key theological ideas or imagery, even though they are used only once.
In summary, hapax legomena showcase the Bible’s rich vocabulary and authentic style, while also providing occasional theological revelations – even though they appear only once in Scripture.
Analysis of Select Biblical Hapax Legomena
Looking deeper at a few examples can shed more light on the nature and purpose of hapax legomena in the Bible:
Behemoth – Job 40:15
The term “behemoth” appears only in Job 40:15, where God describes it as the “chief of the ways of God.” Scholars have conjectured behemoth might refer to creatures like the hippopotamus, elephant, or even a dinosaur. The context suggests a large, powerful land animal created by God as a demonstration of his wisdom and might. Even though this word appears only once, it conveys awe at God’s creative power.
Raca – Matthew 5:22
Jesus cautions his listeners against saying “raca” to their brothers in Matthew 5:22. This hapax legomenon is an Aramaic term of contempt meaning “empty-headed” or calling someone worthless. Though not fully defined, it clearly refers to insulting or deriding others. The broader context is Jesus’ command to not only avoid murder but also anger and verbal abuse. This single reference underscores the importance of words, as even terms of derision carry moral weight.
Naaman – 2 Kings 5
The hapax legomenon “Naaman” refers to a Syrian general afflicted with leprosy in 2 Kings 5. Though mentioned only once, his story reveals key themes about faith, humility and God’s mercy across national borders. Naaman is healed only when he follows the prophet Elisha’s instructions. This account shows that while God’s care is not limited to Israel alone, receiving blessing requires humble obedience. Naaman’s unique story highlights redemptive themes that appear throughout Scripture.
Phygellus – 2 Timothy 1:15
In his final letter, Paul laments that everyone in Asia, including Phygellus, has deserted him (2 Timothy 1:15). No other details about Phygellus are provided. Nonetheless, even this single reference reminds readers that apostasy and unfaithfulness plagued the early church. Enduring persecution requires strength that only God provides. Though undeveloped, Phygellus illustrates the theme of holding firm to faith in Christ despite hardship.
As we can see, while hapax legomena appear only once, they often convey key biblical themes and expand the overall revelation of Scripture. Their uniqueness spotlights the richness of the Bible’s vocabulary and style.
Other Explanations for Biblical Hapax Legomena
In addition to highlighting specialized vocabulary and theological messages, there are other possible explanations for hapax legomena in Scripture:
Lost Hebrew/Greek Works
Some terms may have been common in other documents that did not survive from biblical times. Their only existence in extant works is the Bible. As such, they appear to be hapax legomena but were possibly more widespread originally.
Errors in Transmission
Copy errors over centuries of biblical transmission could have resulted in words incorrectly appearing only once. Some theoretically could have occurred more if the text were transmitted flawlessly.
Individual Authorship
Certain authors may have pulled from unique sources or customized vocabulary. Terms they individually used may have become hapax legomena when Biblical books were compiled into a canon.
Contextual Focus
In some cases, authors may have intentionally employed a word only once to fit the immediate context. The term carried the desired meaning in that passage, making additional uses unnecessary.
While those factors may contribute in some instances, they do not fully account for the widespread presence of hapax legomena. Many of these words still reveal specialized usage and key theological insights in their singular biblical appearance.
Principles for Studying Biblical Hapax Legomena
Certain guidelines can assist in responsible study of hapax legomena:
- Look at grammar and linguistic connections to other scriptural words and roots.
- Examine the immediate context carefully to discern the implied meaning.
- Consider what theological truths or principles are conveyed or illustrated.
- Investigate historical and archaeological resources for cultural background.
- Compare English translations to see how they each handle the uncertainty.
- Research how early church leaders interpreted and explained the term.
- Avoid dogmatism given the inherent uncertainty and limitations.
- Remember that prayer and the Spirit’s guidance are essential in illumination.
Approaching hapax legomena with these principles in mind will lead to fuller understanding and proper application. We must utilize appropriate tools while acknowledging the constraints on definitively determining the meaning of some terms.
The Ongoing Value of Biblical Hapax Legomena
The appearance of hapax legomena in both Hebrew and Greek Scriptures reminds us that God inspired a text with vocabulary and expression unique from all other ancient literature. The singularity of so many terms teaches us truths not found elsewhere while underscoring the Bible’s distinct character as God’s Word.
Though their meanings are sometimes uncertain, they invite exploration and reliance on the Spirit to guide sound exegesis. Their presence across biblical books is one evidence of divine inspiration, not just human authorship.
Most importantly, biblical hapax legomena often provide pivotal glimpses into God’s nature and work in the world. Even expressions used only once can convey timeless significance. They enrich the revelation of Scripture and warrant ongoing study. The uncommon words found in the Bible help complete the picture of God’s purposes in history and bring him glory.