χξϛ
chx stigma
G5516
SILEX Entry
Definition
An archaic Greek numeral sign representing the value 666 (six hundred sixty-six). Used specifically in apocalyptic and symbolic contexts to designate the number six hundred sixty-six, typically in the form of a mark, figure, or designation. The character χξϛ (chi xi stigma) combines three Greek numeral letters: χ (chi) for 600, ξ (xi) for 60, and ϛ (stigma, an archaic letter) for 6. In its primary sense, it has no lexical or semantic meaning apart from its numerical value but functions symbolically within specific literary contexts, notably in apocalyptic literature.
Semantic Range
numerical figure 666, number 666 as symbol, a numeral letter group representing a concept or identity (in apocalyptic writing)
Root / Etymology
Formed by the Greek numerals: χ (chi, 600) + ξ (xi, 60) + ϛ (stigma, 6), following the standard system of Greek alphanumerics. The character ϛ (stigma) is an archaic letter used exclusively for numerical purposes. Etymology: from the Greek letters; not a word but a composite numeral expression.
Historical & Contextual Notes
The combination χξϛ is not a lexical word but a nonstandard notation for the number 666, encountered most notably in Revelation 13:18 to represent a symbolically significant number. In Greek manuscripts, numbers could be written with such letter combinations, and ϛ (stigma) served numerically though its phonetic usage had faded by the Hellenistic period. Ancient writers sometimes discussed the symbolism of numbers, with 666 often interpreted as representing imperfection, incompleteness, or as a concealed code for a name (gematria). Translation history renders χξϛ as 'six hundred sixty-six', but the visual form in Greek manuscripts can carry iconographic or cryptic associations that may be lost in translation. Later traditions, particularly English translations, use the phrase 'the number of the beast' or the spelling 'six hundred sixty-six'. It does not function as a lexical word outside of its numeral role and symbolic context.
Original Strong's Gloss (1890)
the 22nd, 14th and an obsolete letter (στίγμα as a cross) of the Greek alphabet (intermediate between the 5th and 6th), used as numbers; denoting respectively 600, 60 and 6; 666 as a numeral:--six hundred threescore and six.
Root Family
χ, ξ, ϛ (chx stigma) — to denote, to number, to designate (numerical symbols)
Word Forms
0 distinct forms
No word forms found for this Strong's number.
Occurrences in Scripture
0 occurrences
No occurrences found.