Understanding 'Ekklesia' in the Context of Biblical Usage: Genesis to the New Testament

Introduction to the Term Ekklesia

The term 'ekklesia' (εκκλησια) is a term that is often discussed in the context of its usage in the New Testament. However, the discussion extends further back to the Greek translation of the Old Testament known as the Septuagint (LXX). This article aims to clarify the usage and meaning of 'ekklesia' from the Book of Genesis to the New Testament, dispelling some common misconceptions and providing a comprehensive understanding.

Usage of 'Ekklesia' in the Old Testament (LXX)

Genesis and its Relation to 'Ekklesia'
It is a common misconception that 'ekklesia' was a term reserved solely for the New Testament. In reality, 'ekklesia' is found at least 84 times in various forms in the Greek translation of the Old Testament, known as the Septuagint (LXX). This is not a term that appeared suddenly in the New Testament but was present in the Hebrew Scriptures (Old Testament) through the Greek translation process.

A site like can be extremely useful for searching within the LXX. According to CATSS LXX version, there are 102 results for the term 'ekklesia.' This further emphasizes that the term was not a novelty in the New Testament but had historical roots.

Leviticus 16:17 and the Term 'Ekklesia'

For instance, Leviticus 16:17 contains a Hebrew term that would be translated into Greek as 'ekklesia.' In the Greek translation, the Hebrew term would mean 'to congregate or gather for religious purposes.' This demonstrates that the term was in use long before the New Testament, effectively meaning 'ecclesia' or 'assembly.'

Comparisons with Other Terms

Similarities with the Hebrew Term Synagogue
Another term commonly used in the Old Testament, 'synagogue,' also bears a resemblance to 'ekklesia.' In both Hebrew and Greek, these terms indicate a gathering or assembly of people. The word 'synagogue' also meant 'assembly' in ancient Greek, highlighting the shared underlying concept of a community coming together for communal or religious purposes.

The terms 'ekklesia,' 'synagogue,' and 'qahal' (the Hebrew term) all refer to a congregation or assembly of people. They are different words in different languages but convey the same idea of a community of believers or citizens gathered for a specific purpose. This shared meaning is crucial in understanding the continuity of the concept throughout the Biblical texts.

Pauline Usage of 'Ekklesia'

Paul and the Usage of 'Ekklesia'
Paul, one of the key figures in early Christianity, frequently used the term 'ekklesia' in his letters. For example, in 1 Corinthians 15:9 and 1 Peter 2:9, the term 'ekklesia' is used to refer to 'the church.' This usage indicates that the term had evolved to include the Christian community as a specific context, but the underlying meaning of a gathered assembly remained consistent.

It is important to note that the words used by Paul are not exclusive to him or the New Testament, but are reflective of ongoing ecclesiastical traditions and beliefs that built upon the historic use of the term in the Old Testament.

Conclusion

The term 'ekklesia' is a term of great significance in understanding the development of religious thought from the Old Testament through the New Testament. It is not a secret or novel term but rather a resilient concept that has evolved over time to represent a community of believers gathered for a purpose. The use of 'ekklesia' from Genesis to the New Testament underscores the continuity of this understanding and the shared meaning between different languages and cultures.

References: