← G4626 G4628 →

σκάφη

skáphē

G4627 noun

SILEX Entry

Definition

A shallow vessel, bowl, or trough, primarily used for holding, mixing, or serving food, liquids, or other substances. By extension, can refer to various shallow containers in domestic, ritual, or agricultural contexts. In specific contexts, it may refer to a kneading trough, basin, or even, more generally, to a dish or large plate used for serving or preparing meals.

Semantic Range

shallow vessel, bowl, trough, basin, kneading vessel, dish, container for liquids or food

Root / Etymology

Derived from the Greek root σκάφ-, which relates to digging, scooping, or hollowing out. The term is cognate with σκάπτω (to dig) and shares a semantic field with other words denoting hollowed or carved-out objects.

Historical & Contextual Notes

Attested in classical Greek literature (e.g., Homer, Herodotus) as a practical term for various kinds of shallow containers, especially those used in preparation or serving of food (such as mixing bowls for bread or gruel). In the Septuagint, σκάφη often translates terms for large basins, kneading troughs, or ritual vessels, reflecting the broader utility of the term in ancient household and cultic practice. In Koine Greek, including New Testament and contemporaneous sources, its meaning remains primarily practical, referring to everyday objects. Later Christian translations sometimes generalize as 'bowl' or 'basin,' which can obscure the term’s more specific domestic or ritual utility.

Root Family

σκάφη (skaphē) — to dig, to hollow out, vessel, trough

Root σκάφ- to dig, to hollow out, vessel, trough

Word Forms

2 distinct forms

SIDANCE Surface Transliteration Morphology Common SIBI-P1 SIBI-P2 Occurrences
G4627-02 σκάφης skaphes N GEN F SG boat of a hollowed vessel boat 2
G4627-01 σκάφην skaphen N ACC F SG boat a shallow vessel boat 1

Occurrences in Scripture

3 occurrences

SIDANCE Reference Word Transliteration Morphology Common SIBI-P1 SIBI-P2
G4627-02 Acts 27:16 σκάφης skaphes N GEN F SG boat of a hollowed vessel boat
G4627-01 Acts 27:30 σκάφην skaphen N ACC F SG boat a shallow vessel boat
G4627-02 Acts 27:32 σκάφης skaphes N GEN F SG boat of a hollowed vessel boat
← G4626 Greek Lexicon G4628 →