Bible Dictionary
YEA
Yea is an affirmative word meaning “yes,” “certainly,” “also,” or “moreover.” In the New Testament, Jesus teaches that truthful speech should be confirmed simply by “yea” or “nay.”
Definition
Yea is an affirmative word meaning also, moreover, certainly, doubtless, verily, yes, or however, according to context. It is used to confirm or reinforce a statement.
Biblical Usage
The Old Testament uses several words translated “yea” with meanings such as also, moreover, and certainly. In the New Testament, Jesus teaches that ordinary truthful affirmation should be expressed by “yea” or “nay,” without a stronger oath.
Historical Background
The English word represents several Hebrew and Greek particles whose meanings include affirmation, addition, contrast, and “also.”
Related Figures
Historical Bible Dictionaries
International Standard Bible Encyclopedia (ISBE)
<p>ya.</p><p>1. In the Old Testament:</p><p>('aph, "also," "moreover," "yea" (1Sa 21:5 the King James Version; 1Sa 24:11, etc.), gam, "also," "likewise," "moreover," "yea" (2Ki 2:3; 16:3, etc.], ki, "inasmuch," "certainly," "doubtless," "yea" (Ps 102:13; 105:12, etc.)): Each of these words occurs frequently, especially the first two.</p><p>2. In the New Testament:</p><p>In the New Testament we have: nai, "verily," "yea," the usual particle of affirmation (Mt 5:37; 9:28, etc.); de, "however," "on the other hand" (Lu 2:35; Ac 20:34 the King James Version, etc.); alla, "however," "but" (Lu 24:22 the King James Version; Ro 3:31 the King James Version, etc.); kai, "also," "besides," "yea" (Ac 3:16; 7:43 the King James Version, etc.). Christ forbids the employment of any affirmation stronger than the solemn repetition of the first mentioned (Mt 5:37).</p><p>Frank E. Hirsch</p>