Strong's g1366

Pronunciation Guide: dis’-tom-os (δίστομος) – pronounced with emphasis on the first syllable “DIS-tom-os”

Basic Definition

Key Information

δίστομος

Transliteration: distomos Part of Speech: adjective First Appears: Hebrews 4:12 Appears: 3 times

Strong’s Entry

g1366

Gloss: distomos (dis’-tom-os) adj.1. double-edged[from G1364 and G4750]KJV: with two edges, two-edged Root(s): G1364, G4750 

Strong’s G1366: δίστομος (distomos) refers to something that is “double-mouthed” or “two-edged,” particularly describing a sword with cutting edges on both sides. In biblical context, it metaphorically represents the penetrating and discerning nature of God’s Word. The term vividly portrays something that cuts in multiple directions simultaneously, emphasizing thoroughness and precision of action.

Etymology and Morphology

• Part of Speech: Adjective
• Root Words: Compound of δίς (dis, “twice”) + στόμα (stoma, “mouth”)
• Language Origin: Koine Greek
• Primary Usage: Found in descriptive passages, particularly in apocalyptic literature and epistles
• Frequency: Appears 3 times in the New Testament

δίστομος Morphology:

• δίστομος (nominative singular masculine) – two-edged
• διστόμου (genitive singular masculine) – of a two-edged
• διστόμῳ (dative singular masculine) – with/by a two-edged
• δίστομον (accusative singular masculine) – a two-edged

Origin & History

The term δίστομος emerges from classical Greek where it originally described anything with two openings or mouths. In military contexts, it specifically referred to swords with two cutting edges, which were considered superior to single-edged weapons due to their enhanced cutting ability and versatility in combat. The term appears in the works of Euripides (Hecuba 1277) where he describes “δίστομον ξίφος” (a two-edged sword).

In the Septuagint (LXX), δίστομος appears in Judges 3:16 describing Ehud’s dagger as “μάχαιραν δίστομον” (a two-edged sword). This usage established an important precedent for understanding the term’s significance in later biblical literature. The early Church Father Origen, in his homilies on Joshua, employed the term metaphorically to describe the dual nature of Scripture’s ability to address both historical and spiritual realities.

Expanded Definitions & Translation Options

• A sword or weapon that has cutting edges on both sides
• Something with dual functionality or effectiveness
• An instrument with penetrating and thorough abilities
• Something that cuts or divides in multiple directions

δίστομος Translation Options:

• Two-edged – Highlights the dual cutting surfaces, emphasizing the thoroughness of its action
• Double-mouthed – A more literal rendering that preserves the original etymology
• Double-bladed – Emphasizes the weapon’s enhanced effectiveness in combat
• Sharp on both sides – Clarifies the meaning for modern readers unfamiliar with ancient weaponry
• Twin-cutting – Captures both the duality and the cutting action in a single expression

Biblical Usage

In the New Testament, δίστομος appears in three significant passages, each employing the imagery of a two-edged sword with profound theological meaning. In Hebrews 4:12, the Word of God is compared to a double-edged sword that penetrates to the deepest parts of human nature, dividing soul and spirit. This imagery emphasizes the thoroughness and precision with which God’s Word examines and judges human hearts and intentions.

In apocalyptic literature, particularly in Revelation, the imagery takes on Messianic significance. The vision of Yeshua (Jesus) in Revelation 1:16 depicts Him with a sharp two-edged sword coming from His mouth, symbolizing His authority to judge and execute divine justice through His words. The same image reappears in Revelation 2:12 in the message to the church at Pergamum, reinforcing the Messiah’s authority to judge His people and their adversaries.

• “For the word of God is living and active and sharper than any two-edged [δίστομος] sword, and piercing as far as the division of soul and spirit, of both joints and marrow, and able to judge the thoughts and intentions of the heart.” Hebrews 4:12
• “In His right hand He held seven stars, and out of His mouth came a sharp two-edged [δίστομος] sword; and His face was like the sun shining in its strength.” Revelation 1:16
• “And to the angel of the church in Pergamum write: The One who has the sharp two-edged [δίστομος] sword says this:” Revelation 2:12

Cultural Insights

In ancient warfare, the two-edged sword (ῥομφαία δίστομος or μάχαιρα δίστομος) was a fearsome and respected weapon. Unlike single-edged swords that could only cut effectively in one direction, the double-edged sword allowed for fluid, continuous combat movements without the need to reposition the blade. Roman legionaries carried the gladius hispaniensis, a double-edged short sword that was instrumental in establishing Roman military dominance. The effectiveness of these weapons in combat would have made the metaphorical applications immediately powerful to ancient readers.

Additionally, in ancient Jewish tradition, the Torah was sometimes metaphorically described as a sword with two edges, representing its dual capacity to both protect those who followed it and judge those who violated it. This understanding would have enriched the Jewish readers’ appreciation of the imagery in Hebrews 4:12, suggesting not only penetrating judgment but also protection and guidance for the faithful. The rabbinical saying “Turn it and turn it again, for everything is in it” (Pirkei Avot 5:22) reflects this dual nature of Torah study that both challenges and sustains the student.

Theological Significance

The imagery of δίστομος carries profound theological implications about the nature and function of God’s Word. It portrays divine revelation as actively engaging with humanity, not as passive text but as a living force that penetrates the deepest recesses of human consciousness. This imagery emphasizes that no part of our being remains hidden from יהוה (Yahweh); His Word examines our thoughts, motives, and very essence with surgical precision.

The application of δίστομος to the Messiah in Revelation connects to Old Testament prophetic traditions where God’s word is depicted as a weapon of judgment. In Isaiah 49:2, the mouth of the Servant of יהוה is described as “a sharp sword,” while Isaiah 11:4 speaks of striking the earth “with the rod of His mouth.” These connections reveal Yeshua as the divine Word incarnate, whose pronouncements carry ultimate authority and effectiveness. His words both create and destroy, save and judge, establishing His sovereignty over all creation.

Furthermore, the two-edged nature of the sword reflects the dual purpose of God’s Word: it both convicts of sin and offers salvation, it wounds and it heals. This paradoxical quality mirrors the Cross itself—an instrument of death that becomes the source of life. Such imagery reminds believers that God’s interactions with humanity often work through apparent contradictions that resolve in higher wisdom and purpose.

Personal Application

The image of God’s Word as δίστομος challenges us to approach Scripture with both reverence and expectation. When we engage with the Bible, we are not merely analyzing ancient texts; we are exposing ourselves to a divine instrument designed to pierce through our defenses and self-deceptions. This should inspire both awe and vulnerability in our approach to God’s Word. Rather than reading superficially, we should allow Scripture to examine us, revealing areas where our thoughts and intentions may not align with God’s will.

Moreover, this imagery invites us to wield God’s Word properly in spiritual warfare. Just as a double-edged sword requires skill and training to use effectively, so too does Scripture require diligent study and proper application. When facing spiritual battles, temptations, or difficult decisions, we can rely on the penetrating power of God’s Word to cut through confusion and deception. Like the Messiah in Revelation, our proclamation of divine truth carries authority when it faithfully reflects the written Word that proceeds from the mouth of God.

Related Words

• ὀξύς (oxys) – “sharp” – Often paired with δίστομος to emphasize the effectiveness of the sword’s cutting ability. Unlike δίστομος which focuses on having two edges, ὀξύς emphasizes the sharpness of the cutting edge. See G3691
• μάχαιρα (machaira) – “sword, knife” – A common term for a sword or large knife, often modified by δίστομος to specify a double-edged variety. While δίστομος describes the nature of the blade, μάχαιρα identifies the weapon itself. See G3162
• ῥομφαία (rhomphaia) – “large sword, broadsword” – A term for a larger sword that is also described as δίστομος in Revelation. Whereas μάχαιρα typically referred to a shorter sword or dagger, ῥομφαία designates a longer, heavier weapon. See G4501
• τομός (tomos) – “cutting, sharp” – Shares the same root as the latter half of δίστομος, focusing on the cutting action rather than the dual nature of the implement. See G5114
• στόμα (stoma) – “mouth” – Forms part of the compound word δίστομος, with the literal meaning “two-mouthed.” While δίστομος is metaphorical in its weapon context, στόμα primarily refers to an actual mouth or opening. See G4750

Did you Know?

• Did you know that archaeological discoveries have confirmed the prominence of double-edged swords in the Roman military during the New Testament era? The Roman gladius hispaniensis (Spanish sword) featured prominently in the equipment of legionaries and was known for its effectiveness in both thrusting and slashing attacks. This historical reality adds depth to the biblical imagery, as both Jewish and Gentile readers would have immediately recognized the fearsome reputation of such weapons.
• Did you know that modern military special forces still use double-edged daggers and combat knives for their versatility in close-quarter combat? The principle that made ancient δίστομος weapons effective—the ability to cut in multiple directions without repositioning—remains tactically advantageous today. This practical reality helps us understand why this imagery was chosen to represent the effectiveness and versatility of God’s Word in spiritual matters.
• Did you know that in medieval Jewish mystical tradition, the concept of a double-edged sword evolved into a complex metaphor for the Torah’s dual capacity to give life and bring judgment? The Zohar (a 13th-century mystical commentary) speaks of the “sword of Torah” that both protects and challenges the faithful. This tradition, while later than the New Testament, reflects the ongoing Jewish understanding of divine revelation as something that both wounds and heals—a paradox captured perfectly in the δίστομος imagery.

Remember This

The δίστομος nature of God’s Word reminds us that divine truth operates with surgical precision and complete thoroughness, cutting through our pretenses to transform us from the inside out—leaving nothing hidden, nothing unchanged, and nothing beyond the reach of His redemptive purpose.