Lexical Summary harma: Chariot Original Word: ἅρμα Strong's Exhaustive Concordance chariot. Probably from airo (perhaps with a (as a particle of union) prefixed); a chariot (as raised or fitted together (compare harmos)) -- chariot. see GREEK airo see GREEK a see GREEK harmos NAS Exhaustive Concordance Word Originof uncertain origin Definition a chariot NASB Translation chariot (3), chariots (1). Thayer's Greek Lexicon STRONGS NT 716: ἅρμαἅρμα, ἅρματος, τό (from ἈΡΩ to join, fit; a team), a chariot: Acts 8:28f, 38; of war-chariots (i. e., armed with scythes) we read ἅρματα ἵππων πολλῶν chariots drawn by many horses, Revelation 9:9 (Joel 2:5. In Greek writings from Homer down). Topical Lexicon Overview The term ἅρμα (Strong’s Greek 716) denotes a war- or transport-chariot. While the Greek New Testament uses the word only four times, the concept echoes a rich scriptural heritage in which chariots symbolize power, speed, and the advance of divine purpose. Old Testament Background Chariots first appear in Genesis 41:43 when Pharaoh exalts Joseph, and they feature prominently in Israel’s history—Pharaoh’s chariots drown in the Red Sea (Exodus 14:23-28); Sisera’s iron chariots oppress Israel (Judges 4:3); Solomon amasses chariots and horsemen (1 Kings 10:26). Prophets employ the image both literally and figuratively: Elijah is taken by “chariots of fire” (2 Kings 2:11); Isaiah warns, “The Egyptians are men and not God; their horses are flesh and not spirit” (Isaiah 31:3). These backgrounds inform every New Testament occurrence of ἅρμα. New Testament Usage Acts 8:28-38 records the Spirit-orchestrated meeting between Philip and the Ethiopian official. Three of the four appearances of ἅρμα cluster here: In Revelation 9:9 John describes locust-like tormentors: “Their wings were like the roar of many chariots and horses rushing into battle.” The imagery recalls invading armies and underscores the terror of judgment. Historical and Cultural Significance By the first century, chariots remained symbols of state authority and military might, though cavalry had eclipsed them tactically. An Ethiopian court official traveling by chariot exemplifies prestige and governmental power. John’s apocalyptic vision draws on the same cultural resonance: the thunder of advancing chariots conveyed irresistible force to ancient ears. Theological Themes 1. Divine Initiative in Evangelism – In Acts 8, the chariot becomes the mobile setting where Scripture is explained and salvation received. The vehicle of imperial power is redirected for gospel advance, illustrating that no social barrier can hinder the Spirit. Practical Application for the Church • Missional Obedience – Like Philip, believers are called to approach contemporary “chariots” (places of influence) with readiness to expound Scripture. See Also Exodus 14:23-28; 2 Kings 2:11; Psalm 68:17; Isaiah 66:15; Zechariah 6:1-8; Revelation 19:11-16. Forms and Transliterations αρμα άρμα ἅρμα άρμασι άρμασιν άρματα άρματά αρματι άρματι ἅρματι αρματος άρματος ἅρματος αρματων αρμάτων ἁρμάτων arma armati armaton armatōn armatos harma hárma harmati hármati harmaton harmatōn harmáton harmátōn harmatos hármatosLinks Interlinear Greek • Interlinear Hebrew • Strong's Numbers • Englishman's Greek Concordance • Englishman's Hebrew Concordance • Parallel TextsEnglishman's Concordance Acts 8:28 N-GNSGRK: ἐπὶ τοῦ ἅρματος αὐτοῦ καὶ NAS: and sitting in his chariot, and was reading KJV: in his chariot read Esaias INT: in the chariot of him and Acts 8:29 N-DNS Acts 8:38 N-ANS Revelation 9:9 N-GNP Strong's Greek 716 |
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