Definition
The English term “quarter,” as an adjective, often translates the Greek word “τεταρτος” (tetartos), meaning “fourth” or “one of four parts.” This translation captures the fractional aspect of the word, emphasizing division or a segment within a larger whole.
Various Translations
In the King James Version (KJV) of the Bible, “quarter” is typically used to denote a specific portion or division, often in a geographical or temporal context. Other translations, such as the New International Version (NIV) or the English Standard Version (ESV), might opt for more contemporary phrases like “fourth part” or “one-fourth,” aligning closely with the original Greek meaning.
Etymology
The Greek “τεταρτος” (tetartos) directly translates to “fourth,” derived from “τεσσαρες” (tessares), meaning “four.” This numerical derivation is straightforward, emphasizing the division of something into four equal parts.
Grammatical Analysis of the English word
In English, “quarter” as an adjective functions to describe a fraction, specifically one-fourth of a whole. Its usage varies slightly depending on context but remains consistent in conveying the idea of partitioning.
Grammatical Analysis (Greek word)
In Greek, “τεταρτος” is an ordinal adjective, used to describe a position in a sequence. It adheres to Greek adjective rules, agreeing in gender, number, and case with the noun it modifies.
Syntax
The syntactical function of “quarter” or “τεταρτος” depends on its role in a sentence. It can act as an attribute to a noun (e.g., “the fourth day”) or as part of a noun phrase (e.g., “a quarter of the city”).
Biblical Occurrences in the New Testament
Revelation 6:8: “…and power was given unto them over the fourth part of the earth…”
Revelation 8:7: “…and the third part of trees was burnt up, and all green grass was burnt up.”
Revelation 8:12: “…and the third part of the sun was smitten…”
Biblical Occurrences in the Old Testament
Genesis 1:14-19: “…Let there be lights in the firmament of the heaven to divide the day from the night…”
Ezekiel 5:2: “…Thou shalt burn with fire a third part in the midst of the city…”
Typology
In Biblical typology, the use of “quarter” or “τεταρτος” can symbolize completeness in division, often reflecting divine order or judgment.
Linguistic Variations
Linguistic variations of “quarter” in Biblical texts are minimal, with most translations adhering closely to the original Greek meaning of “fourth” or “one of four parts.”
Intertextual Connections
Intertextual connections involving “quarter” often link to themes of division, judgment, and the completeness of God’s plan, as seen in the apocalyptic imagery of Revelation.
Commentary and Exegesis
Commentators and exegetes often focus on the symbolic and thematic significance of “quarter” in Biblical texts, particularly in its eschatological implications in the book of Revelation. The term’s usage underscores the precision and determinism in divine actions and judgments.
Historical Context
The historical context of “quarter” or “τεταρτος” in the Bible reflects a period where numerical precision was significant in territorial, temporal, and ritualistic divisions. This precision was not just practical but also carried a spiritual dimension, especially in the context of the Jewish traditions and later, the early Christian church. The division into quarters was a common practice for land division, calendar systems, and in describing portions of a community or a city, as seen in both Old and New Testaments.
Biblical Narrative Analysis
In the Biblical narrative, “quarter” often appears in contexts emphasizing division or distribution. For example, in Revelation, the division of the earth or heavens into quarters symbolizes the extensive reach of God’s judgment and sovereignty. This division underscores the comprehensive and all-encompassing nature of divine action, affecting every aspect of creation.
Theological Significance
Theologically, “quarter” signifies completeness in fragmentation, suggesting that even in division, there is a wholeness and purpose under God’s sovereign plan. In eschatological passages, like those in Revelation, it reflects the totality and inevitability of divine judgment and the fulfillment of prophetic visions.
Practical Implications
Practically, understanding the concept of “quarter” in Biblical texts encourages believers to appreciate the precision and totality of God’s work in the world. It serves as a reminder of the comprehensive nature of divine authority and the importance of viewing events, both spiritual and worldly, within the context of God’s overarching plan.
Semantic Range
The semantic range of “quarter” in Biblical texts is relatively focused, primarily involving the idea of division into four parts. However, this division is not merely mathematical but carries thematic overtones of completeness, judgment, and divine order.
Symbolic and Allegorical Interpretations
Symbolically, “quarter” is often interpreted as representing the totality and completeness of the world, particularly in eschatological contexts. Allegorically, it can signify the thoroughness of God’s judgment or the extent of divine reach, encompassing all aspects of creation.
References
Beale, G. K., “The Book of Revelation: A Commentary on the Greek Text”, Eerdmans Publishing Co, 1999.
Mounce, William D., “Mounce’s Complete Expository Dictionary of Old and New Testament Words”, Zondervan, 2006.
Thayer, Joseph Henry, “Thayer’s Greek-English Lexicon of the New Testament”, Hendrickson Publishers, 2009.