σχεδόν

nearly, almost

Definition

The Greek particle σχεδόν means 'nearly' or 'almost,' indicating something that is on the verge of happening or being true but is not fully realized. In Acts 13:44, it describes how 'almost the whole city' gathered to hear Paul, emphasizing the overwhelming, yet not total, response. In Acts 19:26, Demetrius claims that Paul has persuaded 'almost the entire world,' a hyperbolic statement highlighting the widespread impact perceived by his opponents. In Hebrews 9:22, it states that 'almost everything is purified with blood' under the Mosaic law, pointing to the comprehensive, yet not absolute, role of blood in Old Testament rituals, which sets the stage for the perfect sacrifice of Christ.

Biblical Usage

σχεδόν is used only three times in the New Testament, all in narrative or explanatory contexts. It appears twice in Acts (13:44; 19:26) to describe the extensive, near-total reach of an event or influence, often with a sense of exaggeration for rhetorical effect. In Hebrews 9:22, it is used in a theological argument about the limitations of the old covenant's purification system, contrasting 'almost' with the completeness found in Christ. The word consistently underscores a boundary or limitation that is being approached but not crossed.

Etymology

Derived from the Greek adverb σχεδόν, meaning 'nigh' or 'close to.' It is related to the verb ἔχω (echō, G2192), meaning 'to have' or 'to hold,' suggesting a sense of proximity or nearness. The term conveys the idea of being on the verge of something, with its meaning remaining stable from classical through Koine Greek.

Semantic Range

While σχεδόν itself is not a theologically loaded term, its use in Hebrews 9:22 is significant. By stating that 'almost everything is purified with blood' under the law, it highlights the inherent insufficiency and preparatory nature of the Old Testament sacrificial system. This sets up the contrast with the new covenant in Christ, where forgiveness is complete and not 'almost' achieved. It enriches reading by emphasizing the transition from partial, symbolic rituals to the perfect, final sacrifice of Jesus.

In ancient Greek rhetoric, terms like σχεδόν were often used for hyperbole or to emphasize the scale of an event without claiming absolute totality. This cultural nuance is evident in Acts, where 'almost the whole city' or 'almost the entire world' would be understood as dramatic expressions of widespread impact rather than literal statistics. The usage reflects a common communicative style of the time.

ὀλίγος (oligos, G3641) — means 'few' or 'little,' focusing on a small amount rather than near-totality; πλήρης (plērēs, G4134) — means 'full' or 'complete,' the opposite concept of totality achieved.

Word Details

Scripture References