Sigma (Σ/σ/ς) – New Testament Greek words that start with sigma
Quick reference
- Greek Name:
- σίγμα / στίγμα
- English Name:
- sigma / stigma
- Pronunciation:
- sĭg’-mä / stēg’-mä
- Upper-case Letter:
- Σ
- Lower-case Letter:
- σ / ς
- Speech Sound:
- consonant
- Numerical Value:
- 200 / 6 °
° the second value is associated with the final form of the letter, which is when it is the last letter of the word
Pronunciation guide
In Koine Greek, the letter Sigma is a voiceless alveolar sibilant, produced by directing air flow toward the teeth, creating a hissing sound. Its sound is similar to the “s” in “same.”
Numerical significance
In the Greek numeral system, Sigma represents the number two hundred (200). While the number two hundred doesn't carry specific symbolic meaning in ancient Greek culture, it is a substantial round number, often associated with a significant quantity or measure.
However, the final form (ς) used at the end of words has the value of six (6) and carries the connotation of incompleteness or imperfection (as compared to 7).
Cultural and symbolic meaning
Sigma is derived from the Phoenician letter Shin, which originally may have represented a tooth. The concept of a tooth, indicative of biting, eating, or piercing.
However the final form is called Stigma, meaning a mark or a sign. It later took on connotations of a mark of infamy or disgrace in Latin and English.