σκεῦος

a vessel to contain liquid, utensil, tackle

Definition

The Greek word σκεῦος (skeuos) primarily means a container or vessel, often used for holding liquids like water or wine, as seen in John 19:29 where a sponge on hyssop is lifted to Jesus. It extends metaphorically to people as 'vessels' chosen by God for a purpose, such as Paul being called a 'chosen vessel' to bear God's name in Acts 9:15. In other contexts, it refers to household utensils (Luke 8:16), tools or tackle (like in Mark 11:16 where temple vessels are mentioned), and even to the human body as a 'vessel' in 1 Thessalonians 4:4. The word can denote objects of mercy or wrath, as in Romans 9:22-23, highlighting God's sovereignty.

Biblical Usage

In the New Testament, σκεῦος appears 22 times across various contexts. It is used literally for physical containers (e.g., John 19:29, Mark 11:16) and household items (Luke 8:16). Metaphorically, it describes people as instruments of God's purpose, such as in Acts 9:15 and Romans 9:22-23. The usage spans Gospels, Acts, and Epistles, with a pattern of transitioning from concrete objects to spiritual imagery, emphasizing believers as vessels for divine use.

Etymology

Derived from the Greek root σκεῦος, meaning 'vessel' or 'implement,' it is related to the verb σκευάζω (skeuazō, G4630) meaning 'to prepare' or 'equip.' The term originally referred to any tool, container, or equipment, reflecting its broad semantic range from everyday utensils to metaphorical applications in religious contexts.

Semantic Range

Σκεῦος is theologically significant as it illustrates God's sovereignty in choosing individuals for His purposes, as seen in Acts 9:15 and Romans 9:22-23. It enriches Bible reading by highlighting believers as 'vessels of mercy' prepared for glory, emphasizing themes of election, sanctification, and divine utility in spreading the Gospel.

In ancient Greek culture, σκεῦος encompassed a wide range of items from household pots to ship tackle, reflecting a society where such vessels were essential for daily life and trade. This broad understanding differs from modern, more specialized terms, helping readers grasp the word's flexibility in biblical metaphors.

ἀγγεῖον (angeion, G30) — specifically a smaller container or vessel, often for liquids; σκεύη (skeuē, G4632) — plural form, used similarly for utensils or equipment; σκευοφόρος (skeuophoros, not in Strong's) — a bearer of vessels, highlighting transport.

Word Details

Scripture References