Brief Overview of Γογγύζω (G1111: Gongyzō)

Transliteration and Meaning:
The Greek word γογγύζω (transliterated as Gongyzō and pronounced as “gong-goo-zoh”) is a verb that carries the meaning of murmuring, grumbling, or complaining in a low, often indistinct tone. The root of the word is somewhat onomatopoeic, capturing the sound of murmuring or whispering discontent. This word is used in the New Testament to describe the negative and often rebellious attitudes of people, particularly in their dissatisfaction with God’s actions or commands.

Lexical Insights and Biblical Usage:
In the lexicons such as BDAG, Thayer’s, and Strong’s Exhaustive Concordance, γογγύζω is consistently defined as murmuring or expressing dissatisfaction in a low voice, typically in a manner that indicates covert disapproval or complaint. BDAG explains that the word can imply a sense of discontent or rebellion, often in contexts where there is disagreement or displeasure with authority or divine provision.

Thayer’s Lexicon adds that γογγύζω is often used in contexts where people speak against something quietly, reflecting a deep-seated discontent that is not openly expressed. Strong’s Concordance aligns with these definitions, highlighting the murmuring aspect of the word.

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In the New Testament, γογγύζω is used in passages like John 6:41, where the Jews murmured against Jesus because of his teachings, and in 1 Corinthians 10:10, where Paul warns the Corinthians not to grumble as the Israelites did in the wilderness, leading to their destruction. These usages emphasize the sinful nature of murmuring against God’s will and the dire consequences it can bring.

Usage in Classical Greek Literature:
The verb γογγύζω appears in classical Greek literature as well, often in similar contexts of complaining or murmuring. For example, in Aristophanes’ play The Frogs, the word is used to describe the grumbling of the characters, reflecting dissatisfaction or mockery. Another instance can be found in the writings of Xenophon, where the word is employed to describe the murmuring of soldiers who are unhappy with their circumstances. These examples demonstrate that γογγύζω was used to depict a general sense of discontent and covert dissatisfaction in various contexts, from literary works to everyday speech.

Summary:
The word γογγύζω (G1111), transliterated as Gongyzō, means to murmur, grumble, or complain in a low voice. It is rooted in the sound of murmuring, capturing the quiet yet rebellious nature of dissatisfaction. In the New Testament, the word is used to describe the negative and sinful attitude of people who are displeased with God’s actions or commands, as seen in passages like John 6:41 and 1 Corinthians 10:10. Lexicons such as BDAG, Thayer’s, and Strong’s agree on the definition, highlighting the word’s connotation of covert discontent. In classical Greek literature, γογγύζω appears in contexts of dissatisfaction, from the grumbling of characters in Aristophanes’ plays to the murmuring of discontented soldiers in Xenophon’s writings. This word thus conveys a deep-seated, often unspoken dissatisfaction, whether directed at divine authority or human circumstances.