Koine Greek

The Language That Conquered the World

A few days ago, archaeologists from the Israel Antiquities Authority announced a significant discovery: a 1,500-year-old monastery north of Kiryat Gat, featuring a remarkable mosaic with the Greek inscription “ΕΝ ΕΙΡΗΝΗ Η ΕΙΣΟΔΟΣ ΚΑΙ Η ΕΞΟΔΟΣ” (“In peace be the entrance and the exit”). This phrase is yet another testament to the enduring influence of the Greek language and its impact on shaping the cultural map of humanity.

The Greek language, which first flourished through the works of the classical period, transformed through Koine Greek, a simplified and more accessible form that emerged following the Hellenistic expansion under Alexander the Great. Koine Greek became the lingua franca of the East, connecting peoples, cultures and religions.

The choice of the Gospel and New Testament authors to write in Greek was no coincidence. Greek was widely understood by the peoples of the Mediterranean, Asia Minor, and the Near East, facilitating the spread of Christianity and making Greek not only a classical but also a biblical language.

Today, Koine Greek is studied worldwide. Scholars and students often begin their journey into Ancient Greek through this simpler and more approachable form. For Greeks, however, there is an additional unique advantage: Modern Greek, as a natural continuation of the language, makes Koine Greek highly accessible. For example, the phrase “ΕΝ ΕΙΡΗΝΗ Η ΕΙΣΟΔΟΣ ΚΑΙ Η ΕΞΟΔΟΣ” is perfectly understandable in Greek without any explanation, something which shows the timelessness and functional power of the language.

Yet, while international scholars enthusiastically embrace Koine Greek, we often neglect this rich heritage. It is time to rethink how Ancient Greek is taught in our schools. Instead of burdening students with excerpts from original texts that are often incomprehensible, we can begin with Koine Greek. This approach would allow children to familiarize themselves with the ancient form of our language more easily, while also grasping its meanings and concepts.

The Greek language is a tool of thought that has birthed intellectual and cultural movements. It is our duty to honor it by making it accessible to future generations, starting with its most approachable and comprehensible form: Koine Greek.

https://www.kathimerini.gr/world/563414995/israil-anakalyfthike-psifidoto-me-elliniki-epigrafi-se-vyzantino-monastiri/