Brief Overview of γεμίζω (G1072: gemízō)

Transliteration and Meaning:
The Greek word γεμίζω (transliterated as gemízō and pronounced as “geh-MEE-zoh”) is a verb that primarily means “to fill” or “to make full.” The word is related to the Greek noun γέμισμα (gémisma), which means “a filling” or “a full measure.” The root of γεμίζω is associated with the concept of fullness or being filled to capacity. In its various forms, γεμίζω can refer to filling something physically, such as filling a container with a substance, or metaphorically, such as filling a person with emotions or ideas.

Lexical Insights and Biblical Usage:
According to BDAG, γεμίζω is used in both literal and figurative contexts in the New Testament. It is found in several passages where it describes the act of filling something with a specific substance. For example, in John 2:7, Jesus instructs the servants to “fill” (γεμίζω) the water pots with water at the wedding in Cana, which later turns into wine. Another instance is found in Matthew 13:48, where the verb is used to describe the filling of a net with fish.

Thayer’s Lexicon agrees with BDAG in emphasizing the literal sense of the word but also expands on its figurative use. For example, in Luke 5:7, the disciples fill their boats with such a large catch of fish that the boats begin to sink. This use of γεμίζω highlights the abundance or overflowing nature of what is being filled.

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The Strong’s Exhaustive Concordance also lists γεμίζω as “to fill,” noting its frequent use in the context of filling containers, spaces, or even abstract concepts like fulfilling prophecy or emotions. The word is versatile and can be applied to various scenarios where something is being brought to its full capacity.

Usage in Classical Greek Literature:
In classical Greek literature, γεμίζω is commonly used to describe the act of filling something, often in practical contexts. For example:

1. In Homer’s Iliad (8th century BC), the word might be used in the context of filling a vessel with wine or water.
2. In Herodotus’ Histories (5th century BC), the term could describe the filling of containers or storage spaces with grain or goods.
3. In the works of Xenophon (4th century BC), γεμίζω might be used to convey the idea of filling a space, such as a room or a ship, with people or items.

These examples from classical literature demonstrate the word’s long-standing use in Greek to describe the act of making something full.

Summary:
The word γεμίζω (G1072), transliterated as gemízō, is a versatile Greek verb meaning “to fill” or “to make full.” It is used in both literal and metaphorical senses in the New Testament, such as filling water pots, nets, or even fulfilling abstract concepts like prophecy. Lexicons like BDAG, Thayer’s, and Strong’s highlight the word’s practical application in various contexts, showing its importance in conveying the idea of fullness or completion. In classical Greek literature, γεμίζω is similarly used to describe the act of filling vessels, spaces, or objects, reflecting its broad applicability in both everyday and literary contexts.