“Kardia” is the Greek word for heart, an organ that performs a crucial role in humans by pumping blood throughout the body, delivering oxygen and nutrients. Its significance is also reflected in its symbolic meaning as the seat of emotions, thoughts, and intentions. The term “kardia” is closely associated with several concepts in Greek language and culture, including the concept of “phren,” the diaphragm, which the ancient Greeks believed played a vital role in understanding and responding to emotions.
The Structure of the Greek Word for Heart
The Greek word for heart is καρδία (kardia). It is a feminine noun and consists of a root (καρδ-) and a suffix (-ία). The root καρδ- is related to the Proto-Indo-European root *ḱḗr, which also gave rise to the English word “heart”. The suffix -ία is a common nominal suffix in Greek and indicates a quality or state.
The word καρδία can be declined in all six cases of Greek grammar. The following table shows the declension of καρδία in the singular number:
| Case | Form |
|---|---|
| Nominative | καρδία |
| Genitive | καρδίας |
| Dative | καρδίᾳ |
| Accusative | καρδίαν |
| Vocative | καρδία |
| Ablative | καρδίᾳ |
The word καρδία can also be used in the plural number. The following table shows the declension of καρδία in the plural number:
| Case | Form |
|---|---|
| Nominative | καρδίαι |
| Genitive | καρδιῶν |
| Dative | καρδίαις |
| Accusative | καρδίας |
| Vocative | καρδίαι |
| Ablative | καρδίαις |
In addition to its basic meaning of “heart”, καρδία can also be used in a metaphorical sense to refer to the mind, the soul, or the seat of emotions. For example, the phrase “καρδίαν ἔχειν” (kardian ekhein) means “to have a heart” in the sense of being compassionate or kind.
Question 1:
What is the Greek word for “heart”?
Answer:
The Greek word for “heart” is καρδία (kardia).
Question 2:
What is the etymology of the Greek word καρδία (kardia)?
Answer:
The word καρδία (kardia) is derived from the Proto-Indo-European root *ḱḗr, which means “heart” or “mind.”
Question 3:
How is the Greek word καρδία (kardia) used in the New Testament?
Answer:
In the New Testament, καρδία (kardia) is used to refer to both the physical heart and the figurative heart, which includes the emotions, mind, and will.
Alright there, my fellow wordsmiths and language enthusiasts! That’s a wrap on our quick dive into the heart of the Greek language. We’ve had a blast uncovering the etymological roots of the word “heart” and its fascinating journey through time and cultures.
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