δούλη

a female slave, bonds-maid

Definition

δούλη refers to a female slave or bondservant, a woman who is legally owned by another and subject to their authority. In the New Testament, it carries both the literal sense of a human chattel and a profound metaphorical sense of willing, devoted service to God. In Luke 1:38, Mary describes herself as the 'bondservant of the Lord,' expressing total submission to God's will. Similarly, in Acts 2:18 (quoting Joel 2:29), it denotes female servants who will prophesy, indicating a role within God's people.

Biblical Usage

This noun is used three times in the New Testament, all in Luke-Acts. In Luke 1:38 and 1:48, it is used by Mary to describe her relationship to God, framing her obedience in terms of servanthood. In Acts 2:18, it appears in a quotation from the prophet Joel, describing the outpouring of the Spirit upon 'maidservants' in the last days, signifying their inclusion in prophetic ministry. The usage thus moves from personal devotion to a broader, eschatological community role.

Etymology

Derived from the root δε- (de-), related to binding or tying, δούλη is the feminine form of δοῦλος (doulos, G1401), meaning 'slave' or 'bondservant.' It shares this root with the verb δέω (deō, G1210), 'to bind.' The word group fundamentally conveys a state of being under authority or obligation.

Semantic Range

This word is theologically significant as it captures a key biblical posture before God: voluntary, humble submission. Mary's declaration in Luke 1:38 models perfect faith and obedience, reframing servitude not as degradation but as the highest privilege. Understanding this Greek term enriches reading by highlighting that Christian discipleship, for all believers, involves embracing the identity of a 'doulos' or 'doulē'—one wholly belonging to and available to God.

In the Greco-Roman world, a δούλη was property with minimal legal rights, existing for the benefit of her owner. This makes the biblical appropriation of the term striking. When applied to a relationship with God, it transforms a status of forced subjugation into one of chosen, honored dependence, where true freedom is found in belonging to a benevolent master.

παιδίσκη (paidiskē, G3814) — a young female slave or maid, often with a focus on youth or household service. δοῦλος (doulos, G1401) — the masculine form, a male slave or bondservant.

Word Details

Scripture References