Dictionaries have been around for a long time, some sources state as far back as 2300 B.C. So, the concept of a dictionary that defines a word has proven itself in the crucible of time! A dictionary is a collection of words that are generally arranged in alphabetical order. The treatment of the word may vary from dictionary to dictionary. However, it is common to find a phonetic spelling, some history of the word’s meaning (called etymology) and a description of how the term is used.
What is the difference between a dictionary and a lexicon? First of all, one should keep in mind that a Bible Dictionary does not function in the same way as a Greek or Hebrew Lexicon. Bible Dictionaries tend to define people, places and things in the Bible, but lexicons deal more with linguistics. So, what is a lexicon? Some may answer this question differently. A lexicon is similar to a dictionary but involves two languages with an effort to bridge a gap in the user’s understanding. The words are listed in alphabetical order by the language being defined. Then, the phonetics, definitions, etc. are provided in the other language in order to learn the meaning of the referent term in the other language. For example, a Greek Lexicon will have Greek terms listed in order of the Greek alphabet, then have information relating to the term’s meaning in English. Some lexicons provide more information about the term’s form, meaning and usage in the New Testament. A note of caution—be careful about accepting without verifying a lexicon’s definition relating to the New Testament. Just because a person is writing about linguistics does not exempt him from theological bias! Greek lexicons have been around for a long time too. One source states that the first Greek lexicon, Clavis Novi Testament by Eilhard Lubin, was printed in 1614.
Defining a word can be a real challenge. First, one should have a clear understanding of the word’s form, how it is written and how it is pronounced. The meaning of the word is generally what people have in mind when consulting a dictionary, and to help accomplish this, the term’s usage in various contexts is supplied. Words have different meanings in different contexts, including cultural contexts. Just because a word’s form may be in the same language does not mean its meaning and usage are identical across cultures. For example, the word “casket” has the same form in both the United States and England, but in England, it has the meaning of a jewelry box. (I don’t recommend telling your wife you bought her a casket for Christmas.) While Koine Greek may not change, English continues to change, which is why newer translations are readily accepted.
The amount of work that goes into creating an excellent dictionary is mind boggling and even more work goes into making a lexicon! Scholars have poured hours or even lifetimes into making available such information at our fingertips. It is a shame that more people do not take advantage of these great tools for the benefit of themselves and others.
Works Consulted
Danker, Frederick W. Multipurpose Tools for Bible Study. Rev. ed. Minneapolis: Fortress, 2003.
Overton, Basil. Gems From Greek. Abilene: Quality Publications, 1991.
