ἀγκάλη
an arm
Definition
ἀγκάλη (agkalē) refers to the arm, specifically the bent arm or the crook of the arm, as when one cradles or carries something. In its single New Testament occurrence in Luke 2:28, it describes Simeon taking the infant Jesus into his arms. The word emphasizes the posture of receiving and holding, often with a sense of care, protection, or blessing. While it can simply denote the physical arm, its usage in Greek literature frequently conveys the action of embracing or carrying a cherished object or person.
Biblical Usage
This word is used only once in the New Testament, in Luke 2:28, where Simeon takes the infant Jesus 'into his arms' (εἰς τὰς ἀγκάλας αὐτοῦ). The context is the presentation of Jesus at the temple, a moment of prophetic recognition and blessing. The usage highlights a physical act of reception that symbolizes acceptance, blessing, and the fulfillment of divine promise.
Etymology
The etymology of ἀγκάλη is uncertain. It is not convincingly derived from ἀ- (a negative prefix) plus a root 'gkalē'. More likely, it is related to the verb ἀγκάζομαι (to embrace) and the noun ἀγκών (elbow, bend). The core idea is that of a bend or curve, hence the bent arm used for holding.
Semantic Range
Though used only once, this word is theologically significant in Luke 2:28. Simeon's act of taking Jesus into his arms represents the faithful reception of God's salvation. It is a physical embodiment of the 'consolation of Israel' (Luke 2:25) and a prophetic sign that this child is the promised Messiah. Understanding this specific Greek term enriches the scene, emphasizing the personal, tender, and deliberate act of welcoming the Savior.
In the ancient Greco-Roman world, taking a child into one's arms was a recognized gesture of paternal recognition, blessing, and acceptance. For Simeon, a devout Jew, this act in the temple context would resonate with themes of presenting a firstborn to God and prophetic endorsement. The 'arms' (ἀγκάλαι) signify not just physical holding but a place of safety and intimate connection.
βραχίων (brachiōn, G1023) — refers to the arm as a symbol of strength or power, often used of God's mighty arm. χείρ (cheir, G5495) — the more general term for hand or arm, focusing on the instrument of action.
Word Details
How this works
Definitions are from the Dodson Greek-English Lexicon, a concise public-domain resource suitable for introductory word study. Brief glosses are supplemented by STEPBible TBESG data (CC BY 4.0). For advanced research, standard scholarly references include BDAG (Danker, 3rd ed.) and LSJ.
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