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ἅπαξ

hápax

G530 adverb

SILEX Entry

Root ἅπ- one time, once, a single occurrence

Definition

Adverb expressing the notion of 'one time,' 'once,' or 'a single occurrence.' Primarily means occurring on a single occasion, whether it be numerically (only one time) or conclusively (no further repetition, finality). Depending on context, may emphasize uniqueness, singularity, or decisiveness of an action or event.

Semantic Range

once, one time, a single occurrence, only once, once for all (finality or non-repetition in context)

Root / Etymology

Derived from ἅπας ('all, the whole, every') with the addition of the enclitic particle ξ, which conveys an adverbial sense. The formation signals a specification of totality to a singular instance. Segregates the whole action to a unique, non-repeated occasion.

Historical & Contextual Notes

In classical Greek, ἅπαξ was used to indicate a single event or action—'once, one time, only once.' By the Hellenistic and Koine periods, including the Septuagint and New Testament, usage predominantly signaled an action occurring only a single time, sometimes with implications of completeness or finality (e.g., in the Epistle to the Hebrews, actions of ritual or sacrifice repeated in the past being contrasted with a decisive, once-for-all event). The form is similar in meaning to the Latin 'semel.' English translations commonly render it as 'once,' but in many contexts, especially in liturgical or legal situations, it may carry the nuance of 'once for all'—that is, an action not to be repeated. No significant distinction in usage between Hellenistic Jewish and non-Jewish writers. The nuance of finality is contextually determined rather than inherent in the adverb itself. Contrasts with πάλιν ('again') as an explicit negative, marking non-repetition. Related: ἅπας ('all'; the totality) is the root, but ἅπαξ narrows this to a single occurrence.

Original Strong's Gloss (1890)

probably from ἅπας; one (or a single) time (numerically or conclusively):--once.

Root Family

ἅπαξ (hapax) — one time, once, single occurrence

Word Forms

1 distinct form

SIDANCE Surface Transliteration Morphology Common SIBI-P1 Occurrences
G530-01 ἅπαξ apax ADV once once 14

Occurrences in Scripture

14 total occurrences

SIDANCE Reference Word Transliteration Morphology Common SIBI-P1
G530-01 2 Corinthians 11:25 ἅπαξ apax ADV once
G530-01 Philippians 4:16 ἅπαξ apax ADV once once
G530-01 1 Thessalonians 2:18 ἅπαξ apax ADV once once
G530-01 Hebrews 6:4 ἅπαξ apax ADV once
G530-01 Hebrews 9:7 ἅπαξ apax ADV once
G530-01 Hebrews 9:26 ἅπαξ apax ADV once
G530-01 Hebrews 9:27 ἅπαξ apax ADV once
G530-01 Hebrews 9:28 ἅπαξ apax ADV once
G530-01 Hebrews 10:2 ἅπαξ apax ADV once
G530-01 Hebrews 12:26 ἅπαξ apax ADV once once
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