Zeta (Ζ/ζ) – New Testament Greek words that start with zeta
Quick reference
- Greek Name:
- ζῆτα
- English Name:
- zeta
- Pronunciation:
- zā’-tä
- Upper-case Letter:
- Ζ
- Lower-case Letter:
- ζ
- Speech Sound:
- consonant
- Numerical Value:
- 7
Pronunciation guide
In classical Greek, the letter Zeta was likely pronounced as “dz.” However, in the Koine Greek period, it evolved to a sound closer to the English “z” as in “maze.” Because of this, you may see either pronunciation on various Christian Greek lexicons and resources.
Numerical significance
Zeta corresponds to the number seven (7) in the Greek numerical system (isopsephy). Seven, in various cultural and religious contexts, is often seen as a number of completeness or perfection. It’s also associated with divine completeness or rest, particularly in the context of the creation week.
Cultural and symbolic meaning
The Greek Zeta originates from the Phoenician letter Zayin, which resembled a weapon or sword, thus representing strength or conflict.