νήθω
nḗthō
G3514 verb
SILEX Entry
Definition
To spin, specifically to twist fibers (such as wool, flax, or other materials) into thread or yarn by means of manual or mechanical processes. In broader contexts, used for the activity of producing thread or yarn as part of textile production.
Semantic Range
to spin (fiber into thread or yarn), to practice the act of spinning, to produce thread by spinning
Root / Etymology
Derived from the Greek verb νήθω (nḗthō), related to the act of spinning. Cognate with the Homeric Greek νήθεω and potentially related to νήμα (nēma, 'thread, that which is spun'). No clear Semitic influence; native to Greek. The underlying root νήθ- is connected with spinning activities.
Historical & Contextual Notes
νήθω appears only rarely in extant Greek literature. Its meaning of 'spinning' is well-attested in both classical and later Greek, with references to domestic and artisan contexts. The verb is used for the manual spinning of wool or flax, often considered women's work in both Hellenistic and Roman society (see Homer, Odyssey 4.130; classical poetry and prose). In the Septuagint, the verb is used for the act of spinning as part of Israelite tabernacle construction. In the New Testament, νήθω does not appear, but related nouns for 'thread' (νήμα) and related textiles occur. English translation as 'spin' conveys the main sense but lacks the cultural connotation of a frequent domestic or artisanal task in ancient life. There are no significant shifts in meaning across periods, though the frequency and context may vary.
Original Strong's Gloss (1890)
from (of like meaning); to spin:--spin.
Root Family
νήθ- (nḗthō) — to spin, to twist fibers
Word Forms
2 distinct forms
| SIDANCE | Surface | Transliteration | Morphology | Common | SIBI-P1 | SIBI-P2 | Occurrences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
G3514-01 |
νήθει | nethei | V PRS ACT IND 3P SG |
they spin | he/she spins | they spin | 1 |
G3514-02 |
νήθουσιν | nethousin | V PRS ACT IND 3P PL |
do they spin | they are spinning | they spin | 1 |
Occurrences in Scripture
2 occurrences
| SIDANCE | Reference | Word | Transliteration | Morphology | Common | SIBI-P1 | SIBI-P2 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
G3514-02 |
Matthew 6:28 | νήθουσιν | nethousin | V PRS ACT IND 3P PL |
do they spin | they are spinning | they spin |
G3514-01 |
Luke 12:27 | νήθει | nethei | V PRS ACT IND 3P SG |
they spin | he/she spins | they spin |