3253
Lexical Summary
(Not Used): (Not Used)
(Not Used)
Part of Speech:
Transliteration: (Not Used)
(Not Used)
Topical Lexicon
Place in the Concordance

Strong’s Greek number 3253 is one of several numerical “gaps” that appear in the standard concordance sequence. The numbering system was fixed more than a century ago, and every subsequent critical edition of the Greek New Testament has preserved those assigned numbers (even when a particular form never occurs in the canonical text). That editorial decision guarantees that all older reference works remain usable, but it leaves a handful of unused numbers, of which 3253 is one.

Connection to the Word-Family

Although 3253 itself is never found in Scripture, it has been kept in the series because it belongs to a small cluster of related forms that were catalogued together in nineteenth-century lexica. Other members of the cluster do appear in the New Testament. By observing how those cognate words are employed, the interpreter can still appreciate the conceptual range that would have included 3253 had it occurred in the biblical text.

Canonical Silence and Inspired Sufficiency

The absence of 3253 from the inspired record is not an oversight. The Holy Spirit conveyed exactly what the church requires for faith and godliness (2 Timothy 3:16-17; 2 Peter 1:3). Consequently, when a registered form never actually appears, students should resist speculation beyond what the text itself warrants. Instead, the rightful focus remains on the vocabulary God has chosen to use.

Septuagint and Extrabiblical Literature

Because it is unattested in the New Testament, attention turns to other Koine sources:

• The Septuagint occasionally employs related terms in historical or prophetic passages.
• Papyri from everyday life sometimes show the same root in commercial or legal contexts.
• Early patristic writings (for example, Clement of Alexandria or Justin Martyr) occasionally preserve cognate forms when paraphrasing Old Testament narratives or commenting on moral duty.

These occurrences help modern readers sense how first-century audiences might have heard the broader word-group, even though 3253 itself is absent from the apostolic writings.

Doctrinal and Practical Significance

1. Reliability of Scripture

The numbered “gaps” illustrate the care with which textual scholars have preserved the biblical text. No conjectural emendations are slipped in simply to fill a numerical blank. The consistent refusal to invent occurrences where none exist strengthens confidence that the words we do possess are transmitted faithfully.

2. Discernment in Word Studies

The unused entry warns against building doctrines on a Strong’s number alone. Sound exposition begins with the text actually present, moves to context, and finally considers historical background. When the text is silent, reverent silence is often the wisest course (Deuteronomy 29:29).

3. Encouragement for Scholarly Diligence

Even an unused form reminds the careful student that every part of a reference system has a history. Understanding that history—why some numbers are empty and others crowded—fosters humility and accuracy in teaching (James 3:1).

Implications for Ministry

• Preachers can use the example of 3253 to illustrate how meticulous God’s providence has been in preserving His Word.
• Bible teachers may encourage students to verify each claimed occurrence of a Greek term instead of relying solely on secondary tools.
• Apologists can point to the integrity of the concordance system as evidence that Christians do not manipulate the data to support preconceived ideas.

Summary

Strong’s Greek 3253 never appears in the New Testament text, yet its very absence teaches valuable lessons about the precision of Scripture, the importance of responsible word study, and the faithfulness of God in safeguarding His revelation.

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Interlinear GreekInterlinear HebrewStrong's NumbersEnglishman's Greek ConcordanceEnglishman's Hebrew ConcordanceParallel Texts
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