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σκέλος

skélos

G4628 noun

SILEX Entry

Definition

The lower limb of a human or animal, especially from the knee down; generally, "leg." Used in anatomical, descriptive, or narrative contexts to denote a part of the body. In extended contexts, may refer to an appendage or support structure resembling a leg (i.e., of an object).

Semantic Range

leg (human or animal), limb, lower extremity, support/"leg" of an object (e.g., a tripod)

Root / Etymology

Probably from a root related to σκέλλω (to dry up, to parch), suggesting thinness or leanness as a primary image. Cognate with terms denoting dryness or withered appearance, but its exact linguistic origin within Greek is uncertain.

Historical & Contextual Notes

The term σκέλος is a standard anatomical word in Greek for "leg." It appears in medical, poetic, and general descriptions from Classical through Koine Greek. In the New Testament (e.g., John 19:31-33), it specifically denotes the lower extremity of a person, with narrative emphasis on the breaking of the legs during crucifixion—a Roman practice intended to hasten death. Standard English Bible translations use "leg," which efficiently captures the literal meaning, though cultural practices tied to the term may not be presupposed in translation. In other classical sources, σκέλος can sometimes refer to an animal’s limb, or generally to any supporting "leg" of an object (such as a tripod or table). The core meaning has remained stable from classical through later Greek. There is no substantive theological or symbolic sense attested for the word itself.

Original Strong's Gloss (1890)

apparently from (to parch; through the idea of leanness); the leg (as lank):--leg.

Root Family

σκέλος (skelos) — leg, limb, support

Root σκελ- leg, limb, support

Word Forms

1 distinct form

SIDANCE Surface Transliteration Morphology Common SIBI-P1 SIBI-P2 Occurrences
G4628-01 σκέλη skele N NOM N PL legs legs legs 3

Occurrences in Scripture

3 occurrences

SIDANCE Reference Word Transliteration Morphology Common SIBI-P1 SIBI-P2
G4628-01 John 19:31 σκέλη skele N NOM N PL legs legs legs
G4628-01 John 19:32 σκέλη skele N ACC N PL legs legs legs
G4628-01 John 19:33 σκέλη skele N ACC N PL legs legs legs
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