Psi (Ψ/ψ) – New Testament Greek words that start with psi

• Old Testament Hebrew
• New Testament Greek

Quick reference

Greek Name:

ψῖ

English Name:

psi

Pronunciation:

psē’

Upper-case Letter:

Ψ

Lower-case Letter:

ψ

Speech Sound:

consonant

Numerical Value:

700

Pronunciation guide

In Koine Greek, the letter Psi is produced by placing the lips together as if to pronounce a “p,” followed by a slight opening to release the “s” sound, all in one continuous breath. It is similar to the “ps” sound in the word “oops.”

Numerical significance

In the Greek numeral system (isopsephy), Psi represents the number seven hundred (700). Although it doesn’t have direct symbolism, it can bee seen as the number seven (symbolizing completeness or perfection) multiplied by 100 (a large number).

That being said, numbers in the Bible are context-dependent and can acquire unique significance within their narrative or prophetic context. For instance, the dimensions of the New Jerusalem, the number of years of prosperity or famine, and the count of Israelite tribes or soldiers in biblical stories carry symbolic weight within their specific stories or prophecies.

Cultural and symbolic meaning

The letter Psi originated from the Phoenician alphabet, evolving from symbols that may have represented a trident or similar object, signifying its maritime culture origins.

The trident can be interpreted as a symbol of the balance between opposing forces, guiding the wielder through complex realms of emotion, thought, and the physical world. Its three points can represent a balance of mind, body, and spirit, or serve as a metaphor for piercing through the veils of illusion to uncover deeper truths.