στόμα

The Greek term *stoma* primarily refers to the mouth, the opening in the face used for speaking, eating, and breathing. This literal meaning is frequently employed in the New Testament to describe human and animal mouths. However, *stoma* carries a significant metaphorical weight, often representing speech itself or the source of words and pronouncements. It can also denote the capacity for testimony and the giving of account.

Beyond its anatomical sense, *stoma* extends to describe any kind of opening or entrance, such as the mouth of a river or a cave. In a more specialized use, it can refer to the edge or sharpened part of a weapon, particularly a sword. This broader semantic range highlights the versatility of the term, moving from the literal body part to abstract concepts of communication and even physical implements.

Biblically, *stoma* is crucial for understanding passages that emphasize the power of words, whether divine or human. The concept of words "proceeding out of the mouth" underscores their origin and authority. It frequently appears in contexts related to prophecy, judgment, and testimony, signifying the impactful nature of spoken declarations.