Dictionary entry

Several; Severally

International Standard Bible Encyclopedia

sev'-er-al, sev'-er-al-i: The Hebrew words chophshuth and chophshith, translated "several" in the King James Version, the English Revised Version,2Ki 15:5;2Ch 26:21, are in both cases translated "separate" in the American Standard Revised Version, and indicate ceremonial uncleanness and consequent severance on account of leprosy. In the parable of the Talents (Mt 25:15) and also in1Co 12:11the word idios, is translated "several," "severally." In both cases it points to the individuality of the recipients of the gift bestowed.