σής
sḗs
G4597 noun
SILEX Entry
Definition
A moth, specifically an insect whose larvae feed on and cause damage to textiles or stored organic materials. The term denotes a common pest associated with the consumption and destruction of clothing, fabric, or grain. In figurative usage, it symbolizes decay, impermanence, and vulnerability to corruption.
Semantic Range
moth (insect attacking fabric or linen); agent of decay; figurative of corruption or impermanence
Root / Etymology
From Hebrew סָס (sās), meaning 'moth,' adopted into Greek. Not a native Greek word; it reflects a loanword likely introduced through contact with Semitic languages, possibly via the Septuagint or Jewish usage.
Historical & Contextual Notes
In the Greek of the Septuagint and New Testament, σής is used to render the Hebrew סָס, especially in contexts warning of the perishable nature of earthly wealth (e.g., Matthew 6:19–20, Luke 12:33, Job 13:28 LXX). The word does not occur in earlier classical Greek literature and is absent from more general Hellenistic vocabulary, supporting its origin as a Hebraism. In the New Testament, 'moth' frequently serves as a metaphor for transient or corruptible possessions and can highlight themes of material impermanence. Standard English translations usually render the term as 'moth,' but may not always convey the broader associations of decay or destruction implied by its ancient usage.
Original Strong's Gloss (1890)
apparently of Hebrew origin (סָס); a moth:--moth.
Root Family
σής (sḗs) — moth, devourer of fabric
Word Forms
1 distinct form
| SIDANCE | Surface | Transliteration | Morphology | Common | SIBI-P1 | SIBI-P2 | Occurrences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
G4597-01 |
σὴς | ses | N NOM M SG |
moth | moth | moth | 3 |
Occurrences in Scripture
3 occurrences
| SIDANCE | Reference | Word | Transliteration | Morphology | Common | SIBI-P1 | SIBI-P2 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
G4597-01 |
Matthew 6:19 | σὴς | ses | N NOM M SG |
moth | moth | moth |
G4597-01 |
Matthew 6:20 | σὴς | ses | N NOM M SG |
moth | moth | moth |
G4597-01 |
Luke 12:33 | σὴς | ses | N NOM M SG |
moth | moth | moth |