ἥμισυς

half

Definition

The Greek adjective ἥμισυς means 'half' and is used to denote a division into two equal parts. In the New Testament, it appears in both literal and figurative contexts. Literally, it describes a physical division, such as in Mark 6:23 where Herod promises up to 'half' of his kingdom. Figuratively, it can denote a partial or incomplete state, as seen in Revelation 12:14 where the woman is nourished for 'a time, and times, and half a time,' symbolizing a limited period of divine protection.

Biblical Usage

ἥμισυς is used five times in the New Testament, primarily in the Gospels and Revelation. In narrative contexts like Luke 19:8, Zacchaeus pledges to give 'half' of his goods to the poor, indicating a substantial, quantifiable portion. In the apocalyptic book of Revelation, it appears three times (Revelation 11:9, 11:11, 12:14), often in symbolic measurements of time (e.g., 'three and a half days') that signify a limited, divinely ordained period of tribulation or testimony.

Etymology

Derived from the Proto-Indo-European root *sēmi-, meaning 'half'. It is a native Greek adjective, related to words like ἡμι- (hēmi-), a prefix meaning 'half' (as in hemisphere). The form ἥμισυς is cognate with Latin 'semis' and English 'semi-', all conveying the concept of a half or partial measure.

Semantic Range

While primarily a mathematical term, ἥμισυς gains theological significance in Revelation's apocalyptic symbolism. The periods of 'three and a half days' (Revelation 11:9, 11) and 'a time, and times, and half a time' (Revelation 12:14) are not random but represent a limited, incomplete, or imperfect period of suffering or witness that is under God's sovereign control and will be concluded by His intervention. Understanding this term enriches the reading of these passages by highlighting the temporary nature of opposition to God's people.

In the ancient Greco-Roman world, the concept of 'half' was used in everyday commerce, inheritance, and measurements, much as it is today. The cultural understanding aligns closely with the modern one. However, its use in apocalyptic literature like Revelation taps into a Jewish symbolic tradition (seen in Daniel 7:25, 12:7) where 'half' of a symbolic number (like seven) represents a period of distress that is broken or incomplete, awaiting fulfillment.

μέρος (meros, G3313) — a 'part' or 'portion', which can be any fraction, not necessarily half. μερίς (meris, G3310) — a 'share' or 'allotted portion', often of an inheritance.

Word Details

Scripture References