λῆμψις

lēmpsis

G3028 noun

SILEX Entry

Definition

The act of taking, receiving, or accepting something; denotes the action of receiving, in the sense of acquiring, obtaining, or taking into possession. In context, typically refers to the process by which something is received rather than the possession itself.

Semantic Range

act of receiving, process of taking, acceptance, acquisition

Root / Etymology

From the root λαμβάνω (to take, to receive); formed with the nominal suffix -σις indicating an action or process.

Historical & Contextual Notes

λῆμψις is a rare noun, appearing in Koine Greek primarily as a formal or abstract noun describing the act of receiving or the process by which something is acquired. In extant literature and inscriptions, usage of λῆμψις is uncommon, both in classical and Koine sources. Its formation follows a common Greek pattern for abstract action-nouns (-σις). In the New Testament (Philippians 4:15), it refers specifically to the act of receiving material support or aid, not generic possession. English standard translations often render it 'receiving' or 'receipt,' but 'receipt' here is not a written acknowledgement but the process of taking delivery or accepting. The word does not occur in the Septuagint. λῆμψις is directly related to its verb root and does not carry additional nuance beyond the abstract idea of receiving—contrast with more concrete nouns for possessions or gifts. Lexically, it parallels other -σις nouns indicating actions or processes. English 'receipt' as a document is anachronistic and not an appropriate translation for this Koine noun.

Original Strong's Gloss (1890)

from λαμβάνω; receipt (the act):--receiving.

Root Family

λῆμψις (lēmpsis) — taking, receiving, acceptance, acquisition

Root λαμβ- to take, to receive

Word Forms

1 distinct form

SIDANCE Surface Transliteration Morphology Common SIBI-P1 SIBI-P2 Occurrences
G3028-01 λήμψεως lempseos N GEN F SG receiving of receiving of receiving 1

Occurrences in Scripture

1 occurrence

SIDANCE Reference Word Transliteration Morphology Common SIBI-P1 SIBI-P2
G3028-01 Philippians 4:15 λήμψεως lempseos N GEN F SG receiving of receiving of receiving