Brief Overview of αὐλέω (G832: auleō)

1. Brief Overview:

Transliteration: auleō

Root Words: The Greek verb αὐλέω (auleō) is derived from αὐλός (aulós), meaning “pipe” or “flute.” The root word relates to the act of playing a wind instrument.

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Primary Meanings:

• To Play a Pipe or Flute: The primary meaning of αὐλέω is to play a musical instrument, specifically a wind instrument like a flute.
• To Blow or Sound a Wind Instrument: It can also refer to the act of producing sound through blowing into such an instrument.

2. Detailed Description:

BDAG: BDAG defines αὐλέω as “to play the flute,” focusing on its use in musical contexts. It describes the term in relation to wind instruments, particularly the flute.

Thayer’s: Thayer’s Greek Lexicon describes αὐλέω as “to play on a flute,” emphasizing its application to the act of playing wind instruments.

Vines: Vines’ Expository Dictionary similarly defines αὐλέω as “to play the pipe” or “to play on a flute,” underscoring its musical connotation.

LSJ: The LSJ Lexicon provides a definition consistent with the above, noting that αὐλέω means “to play a pipe or flute,” specifically focusing on musical performance.

Strong’s Exhaustive Concordance: Strong’s identifies αὐλέω as “to play the flute,” directly reflecting its meaning related to wind instruments.

Bible Verses:

• Matthew 11:17 (KJV): “And saying, We have piped unto you, and ye have not danced; we have mourned unto you, and ye have not lamented.”
• Here, αὐλέω is translated as “piped,” referring to the act of playing a flute as part of a cultural or social activity.
• Luke 7:32 (KJV): “They are like unto children sitting in the marketplace, and calling one to another, and saying, We have piped unto you, and ye have not danced; we have mourned to you, and ye have not wept.”
• Similarly, αὐλέω is translated as “piped,” indicating its use in playing a musical instrument.

3. Classic Greek Literature:

Usage in Classic Greek Literature:

• Homer: In works like the Iliad and the Odyssey, the term αὐλέω is used to describe the playing of musical instruments, including pipes and flutes.
• Pindar: Pindar’s odes often include references to musical instruments and their use in ceremonial contexts, reflecting the concept of αὐλέω.
• Sophocles: In plays, the term appears in descriptions of musical performances, illustrating its cultural significance in Greek theater.

4. Summary:

αὐλέω (auleō) refers to the act of playing a wind instrument, particularly a pipe or flute. The term is primarily associated with musical performance and the production of sound through such instruments. Its use in classical literature and biblical texts highlights its role in cultural and ceremonial contexts, providing insight into the musical practices of ancient Greece and their depiction in various texts. Understanding αὐλέω enriches our appreciation of ancient musical traditions and their representation in historical literature.