G5516 – 666, chi xi stigma – χξς, χῖ ξῖ στίγμα – 666

Strong’s ID:: G5516
Greek Word:: χξς, χῖ ξῖ στίγμα
Transliteration:: 666, chi xi stigma
Pronunciation:: khee xee stig’-ma
Part of Speech:: numeral
Etymology:: Chi (Χ/χ), 600
Xi (Ξ/ξ), 60
Sigma (Σ/σ/ς), 6
Usage Count:: 1
Search:: Find “666, chi xi stigma” in the Bible (New Testament)

Equip God’s People Greek Lexicon

The Greek alphabet is used as a numerical system, where each letter corresponds to a specific numerical value (i.e., gematria calculations). In this context, “chi” (χ) has a value of 600, “xi” (ξ) has a value of 60, and “stigma” (ς or ϛ) has a value of 6. When combined, these values total 666 and is “the number of the beast.” However, a few ancient manuscripts, including one known as Papyrus 115 (225-275 AD), present it as ΧΙϚ, thus 616 (chi = 600, iota = 10, stigma = 6).

Preterists argue that many of the prophecies in Revelation were fulfilled during the time of the Roman Emperor Nero and the challenges faced by the early Christian community. In this interpretation, the number 666 can be associated with Nero, as the Greek form of his name is “Νέρων Καῖσαρ” (Neron Kaisar), which is transliterated into Hebrew as “נרון קסר” (Neron Qesar) and equals 666. In Latin, his name is “Nero Caesar”, which is transliterated into Hebrew as “נרו קסר” (Nero Qesar) and equals 616. Since readers are encouraged to “calculate” it as “the number of a man,” this may explain the discrepancy between the two numbers.

The “mark” of this number is probably symbolic of a person’s allegiance or identification with The Beast, rather than being a physical marking or device. Thus, the hand symbolizes outward actions and the forehead symbolizes beliefs or thoughts. The refusal to accept The Beast’s worldview ultimately results in exclusion from trade, employment, and social life.

Regardless of the exact number, the mark, and their meanings, they all serve as a cautionary message to all Christians, encouraging us to remain faithful to God even in the face of extreme persecution.

Strong’s Greek Lexicon

the 22d, 14th and an obsolete letter (G4742 as a cross) of the Greek alphabet (intermediate between the 5th and 6th), used as numbers; denoting respectively 600, 60 and 6; 666 as a numeral:—six hundred threescore and six.

Owing to changes in the enumeration while in progress, there were no words left for numbers 2717 and 3203–3302, which were therefore silently dropped out of the vocabulary and references as redundant.

Thayer’s Greek Definitions

1) six hundred and sixty six, the meaning of which is the basis of much vain speculation

Thayer’s Definitions are as edited by the Online Bible of Winterbourne, Ontario. They removed the etymology, cross-references, and Greek phrases and changed some of Thayer’s Unitarian doctrinal positions concerning the work and person of Christ.