Dictionary of Deities and Demons in the Bible Online

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Kyrios κύριος
(3,320 words)

I. Name

Kyrios (fem. kyria) is a substantivated adjective probably deriving from a thematic form *kyros (Sanskrit sūra ‘strong’, ‘hero’). In Greek profane life it means a man of superior status, who has authority and can dispose of things and persons under his control. As a religious title it betrays the respect of a deity’s ‘servant’ and can function as a proper name.

II. Identity

Though Pindar, Isthm. 5:53 (first half of the 5th century bce), praises Zeus, who destines everything, as ho pantōn kyrios (Lord of…

Cite this page
D. Zeller, “Kyrios κύριος”, in: Dictionary of Deities and Demons in the Bible Online, Edited by: Karel van der Toorn, Bob Becking, Pieter W. van der Horst. Consulted online on 01 April 2023 <http://dx.doi.org/10.1163/2589-7802_DDDO_DDDO_Kyrios>



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