Brief Overview of δεῦτε (G1205: deûte)

Deûte (pronounced DYOO-teh) is a Greek adverb that translates to “come” or “come here.” This word functions as an imperative command, used to summon or call others to approach the speaker or to move toward a particular location or action. It is often found in the New Testament in contexts where Jesus or others are calling people to follow, gather, or participate in an action. The word is related to the verb ἔρχομαι (érchomai), meaning “to come” or “to go,” but is specifically used as an imperative form to direct others.

Root Word and Part of Speech:

• Root Word: Related to ἔρχομαι (érchomai), meaning “to come.”
• Part of Speech: Adverb.

Primary Meanings:

• Come: The primary meaning of δεῦτε is “come,” used as an imperative command to summon or invite someone to approach the speaker or to participate in a specific action.
• Come Here: It can also mean “come here,” emphasizing the immediacy of the command, often used in contexts of urgency or strong encouragement.

Scripture References

1. Matthew 4:19: “And he said to them, ‘Follow me (δεῦτε), and I will make you fishers of men.'”
2. Matthew 11:28: “Come to me (δεῦτε), all who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest.”
3. Isaiah 1:18: “Come now (δεῦτε), let us reason together, says the LORD: though your sins are like scarlet, they shall be as white as snow; though they are red like crimson, they shall become like wool.”

Detailed Description

BDAG (A Greek-English Lexicon of the New Testament and Other Early Christian Literature) defines δεῦτε as an adverb of motion, used to call or summon someone to approach or move toward the speaker. The lexicon notes that δεῦτε is often used in imperative contexts where the speaker is issuing a direct command or invitation. BDAG highlights that the word is particularly common in the Gospels, where Jesus uses it to call his disciples, invite people to follow him, or encourage them to come to him for rest or salvation.

Thayer’s Greek Lexicon describes δεῦτε as an imperative adverb used to summon or call someone to approach. Thayer’s emphasizes that the word is used in both the New Testament and the Septuagint (Greek Old Testament) in contexts where someone is being invited to participate in a significant action, such as following Jesus or engaging in dialogue with God. The lexicon also highlights the word’s use in the Old Testament to invite people to reason with God or to come together for a common purpose.

Vine’s Expository Dictionary supports this understanding, noting that δεῦτε is primarily used as a command or invitation to “come.” Vine’s highlights the word’s frequent use by Jesus in the New Testament, where it serves as a call to discipleship, an invitation to rest, or a command to gather for a specific purpose. The dictionary also notes that δεῦτε carries a sense of urgency, often used in contexts where immediate action is required.

Strong’s Exhaustive Concordance defines δεῦτε as “come” or “come here,” emphasizing its use as an imperative command in the New Testament. The concordance highlights the word’s frequent occurrence in the Gospels, where it is used by Jesus to call others to follow him, to come to him for rest, or to participate in the kingdom of God.

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Usage in Classical Greek Literature

1. Homer’s “Odyssey”: In the Odyssey, δεῦτε is used to summon characters to approach or gather, particularly in moments of decision or action. The term conveys a sense of command and urgency in these contexts.
2. Sophocles’ “Oedipus Rex”: In this tragedy, δεῦτε is used to call characters to participate in important discussions or decisions, often related to the unfolding drama. The word underscores the authoritative tone of the speaker and the significance of the action being commanded.
3. Plato’s “Republic”: In this philosophical dialogue, δεῦτε is used to invite participants to engage in discussion or to follow the argument being presented. The term is employed to direct the flow of the conversation and to ensure the active participation of the interlocutors.

Summary

Deûte (G1205) is a Greek adverb meaning “come” or “come here,” derived from the root ἔρχομαι (érchomai), which means “to come.” The term is used in the New Testament as an imperative command to summon or invite others to approach or participate in a specific action. Deûte is frequently used by Jesus in the Gospels to call his disciples, invite people to follow him, or encourage them to come to him for rest or salvation. The word also appears in the Septuagint, where it is used to invite people to reason with God or to gather for a common purpose. Deûte is an essential term in biblical texts, emphasizing the power of the spoken word to command action and the importance of responding to divine invitations. The term also has a rich history in classical Greek literature, where it is used to summon or direct others in various contexts of action and decision-making.