λόγχη (G3057) — Greek Lexicon

λόγχη

lónchē

G3057 noun

SILEX Entry

Root λογχ- spear, lance, to pierce (as by thrusting)

Definition

A spear or lance; specifically, a long thrusting weapon used in warfare or by soldiers, typically with a metal point. In literary and documentary Greek, λόγχη most often refers to a spear as a weapon for thrusting or piercing. The word can be applied to a range of polearms, but usually denotes a weapon intended for close combat as opposed to the longer throwing javelin (δόρυ) or missile weapons.

Semantic Range

spear, lance, thrusting weapon, military polearm, surgical probe (by later extension)

Root / Etymology

etymology uncertain. λόγχη appears in Greek as a standalone term not securely derived from other known Greek roots; several theories propose a Pre-Greek or non-Greek (possibly Thracian or Illyrian) origin due to its absence from earlier Greek forms, but this remains speculative.

Historical & Contextual Notes

In classical Greek, λόγχη designated a spear, particularly one with an iron or bronze tip, used by infantry or cavalry. It is distinct from δόρυ, which sometimes refers to a larger spear or shaft, and from ἀκοντίον, which refers more specifically to a javelin. In the Hellenistic and Roman periods, λόγχη continues to refer to both military spears and, in a transferred sense, implements resembling a spear (such as the surgical probe in later medical texts). In the New Testament, λόγχη appears notably in John 19:34, describing the Roman soldier's act of piercing with a spear. The choice of λόγχη in this context underlines the military and specifically piercing aspect of the weapon, as distinct from general words for weapon or shaft. English translations typically render λόγχη as 'spear' or 'lance,' but neither captures the particular Greek nuance distinguishing it from other polearms or projectile weapons.

Original Strong's Gloss (1890)

perhaps a primary word; a "lance":--spear.

Root Family

λόγχη (lonchē) — spear, lance, thrusting weapon

Word Forms

1 distinct form

SIDANCE	Surface	Transliteration	Morphology	Common	SIBI-P1	Occurrences
`G3057-01`	λόγχῃ	logche	`N DAT F SG`	with a spear	with a spear	1

Occurrences in Scripture

1 total occurrence

SIDANCE	Reference	Word	Transliteration	Morphology	Common	SIBI-P1
`G3057-01`	John 19:34	λόγχῃ	logche	`N DAT F SG`	with a spear	with a spear

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