Strong's Lexicon hoplon: Weapon, instrument, tool Original Word: ὅπλον Word Origin: Derived from the base of ὄπλον (hoplon), meaning "tool" or "implement." Corresponding Greek / Hebrew Entries: While there is no direct Hebrew equivalent for "hoplon," the concept of weapons or instruments can be related to Hebrew terms such as כְּלִי (keli, Strong's H3627), which means "vessel" or "instrument." Usage: In the New Testament, "hoplon" primarily refers to weapons or instruments used in warfare. It is used metaphorically to describe spiritual tools or virtues that believers are to employ in their spiritual battles. The term emphasizes readiness and preparation for conflict, whether physical or spiritual. Cultural and Historical Background: In ancient Greek culture, "hoplon" referred to the equipment of a hoplite, a heavily armed foot soldier. The hoplite's panoply included a shield, spear, helmet, and body armor. This imagery would have been familiar to the original audience of the New Testament, who understood the importance of being well-equipped for battle. The metaphorical use of "hoplon" in the New Testament draws on this cultural understanding to convey the necessity of spiritual preparedness and defense. HELPS Word-studies 3696 hóplon – properly, an implement (normally used for warfare). In the NT, 3696 /hóplon ("instrument") is always in the plural ("weapons to wage war"). 3696 /hóplon ("instruments to make war") underlines that God always gives all the resources we need to prevail in every form of spiritual warfare – as we live in faith ("His inbirthed persuasion," 2 Cor 6:7, 10:4). NAS Exhaustive Concordance Word Origina prim. word Definition a tool, implement, weapon NASB Translation armor (1), instruments (2), weapons (3). Thayer's Greek Lexicon STRONGS NT 3696: ὅπλονὅπλον (allied to ἐπω, Latinsequor, socius, etc.; Curtius, § 621), ὅπλου, τό, as in classical Greek from Homer down, any tool or implement for preparing a thing (like the Latinarma); hence, 1. plural arms used in warfare, weapons: John 18:3; 2 Corinthians 10:4; metaphorically, τῆς δικαιοσύνης, which ἡ δικαιοσύνη furnishes, 2 Corinthians 6:7; τοῦ φωτός, adapted to the light, such as light demands, Romans 13:12 (here L marginal reading ἔργα). 2. an instrument: ὅπλα ἀδικίας, for committing unrighteousness, opposed to ὅπλα δικαιοσύνης, for practising righteousness, Romans 6:13. Probably from a primary hepo (to be busy about); an implement or utensil or tool (literally or figuratively, especially, offensive for war) -- armour, instrument, weapon. Englishman's Concordance John 18:3 N-GNPGRK: λαμπάδων καὶ ὅπλων NAS: with lanterns and torches and weapons. KJV: torches and weapons. INT: lamps and weapons Romans 6:13 N-ANP Romans 6:13 N-ANP Romans 13:12 N-ANP 2 Corinthians 6:7 N-GNP 2 Corinthians 10:4 N-NNP |