Strong’s G5179: From a primary word τύπτω (to strike); a die (as struck), that is, a stamp or scar; by analogy a shape or statue, style or resemblance; specifically a sampler (“type”), that is, a model for imitation or warning.
U – Unveiling the Word
The Greek word τύπος carries profound theological significance, originating from the concept of striking or making an impression. In ancient usage, it referred to the mark left by a strike or blow, evolving to mean a pattern, model, or example. In New Testament theology, τύπος takes on particular importance as it relates to divine prefiguring – where Old Testament persons, events, or institutions serve as prophetic “types” pointing to their fulfillment in the Messiah or the Church. This pattern-to-fulfillment relationship highlights God’s sovereign design throughout salvation history, showing how He consistently reveals His redemptive plan through carefully chosen examples and models that find their ultimate expression in King Jesus.
N – Necessary Information
- Greek Word: τύπος, typos, /ˈty.pos/
- Pronunciation: TOO-poss
- Part of Speech: Noun
Etymology:
- Root: τύπ- (typ-) from τύπτω (typtō) meaning “to strike”
- Suffix: -ος (-os) indicating masculine nominative singular ending
- Function: Forms a concrete noun indicating the result of an action (the mark from striking)
D – Defining Meanings
- A mark made by striking
- A pattern or model
- An example for moral instruction
- A prefiguring type
- A form or figure
For compound words: Not applicable as τύπος is not a compound word
Translation Options:
- “Type” – Best captures the theological sense of prefiguring
- “Pattern” – Emphasizes the model aspect for imitation
- “Example” – Highlights the instructional purpose
E – Exploring Similar Words
- εἰκών (eikōn, /eɪˈkɔːn/) – image, likeness See G1504
- ὑπόδειγμα (hypodeigma, /hyˈpo.deig.ma/) – example, pattern See G5262
- σκιά (skia, /skiˈa/) – shadow, foreshadowing See G4639
R – Reviewing the Word’s Morphology
Noun Features:
- Case: Nominative/Accusative
- Number: Singular/Plural
- Gender: Masculine
- Declension: Second
Examples:
- Nominative singular: τύπος (typos)
- Genitive singular: τύπου (typou)
- Dative singular: τύπῳ (typō)
- Accusative singular: τύπον (typon)
S – Studying Lexicon Insights
The rich theological significance of τύπος is evident across lexical sources. BDAG emphasizes its development from a basic meaning of “mark” to its theological usage as a “pattern” or “example.” Thayer’s highlights its connection to moral instruction, while LSJ provides extensive classical usage examples. Vine’s expands on its typological significance in biblical interpretation. Moulton and Milligan document its usage in papyri, showing its practical application in everyday life. Together, these sources reveal τύπος as a word that bridges concrete and abstract meanings, from physical impressions to spiritual prefiguration.
T – Tracing the Scriptures
First Appearance:
John 20:25: “Unless I see in His hands the print [τύπος] of the nails, and put my finger into the print [τύπος] of the nails, and put my hand into His side, I will not believe.”
Additional References:
Acts 7:43, Acts 7:44, Romans 5:14, Romans 6:17, 1 Corinthians 10:6
A – Analyzing Classical Usage
| Author: Work | Text |
|---|---|
| Plato: Republic | “They must follow these models [τύπος] in their practices.” |
| Aristotle: Metaphysics | “The impression [τύπος] left in the wax by the seal.” |
| Herodotus: Histories | “The figure [τύπος] carved into the stone remained unchanged.” |
N – Noteworthy Summary
The concept of τύπος reveals God’s masterful plan of revelation through patterns and examples. From physical impressions to spiritual prefiguration, it shows how the Messiah fulfills and exceeds every type that came before Him. This word teaches us that God’s revelation is progressive yet consistent, using concrete examples to point to spiritual truths. The good news shines through as we see how every type finds its perfect fulfillment in King Jesus, who is not just another example but the very image of the invisible God.
D – Did You Know?
- The English word “typewriter” ultimately derives from τύπος
- In early Christian art, τύπος was used to describe iconic representations of biblical scenes
- The theological study of biblical types (typology) takes its name from this word
Strong’s G5179: From τύπτω (to strike); a die, stamp, or scar; by analogy a shape or statue; specifically a sampler (“type”), a model for imitation or warning – revealing God’s progressive revelation through patterns pointing to the Messiah.
Part of speech: Noun
Tags: type, pattern, example, prefiguration, model, impression, mark, typology, biblical interpretation, theological terms, New Testament Greek, divine revelation
