Brief Overview of ἐκκολυμβάω (Strong’s G1579: ekkolymbáō)

Introduction

The study of Greek words in the New Testament is crucial for understanding the depth and nuances of the Biblical text. Each word carries a rich cultural and linguistic history that can enhance our comprehension of the scriptures. One such word is ἐκκολυμβάω (ekkolymbáō), a verb that appears in the context of physical action but also holds metaphorical implications in the ancient Greek world. Its usage in the New Testament offers insights into both the practical and symbolic aspects of the text, making it a valuable term for scholars and students alike.

Key Information

• Greek Word: ἐκκολυμβάω (ekkolymbáō) [ek-ko-LOOM-bah-oh]
• Etymology: Composed of the preposition ἐκ (ek), meaning “out of,” and the verb κολυμβάω (kolymbáō), meaning “to swim.” Together, ἐκκολυμβάω literally means “to swim out.”
• Part of Speech: Verb (active voice, indicative mood)
• The F.O.G Word Choice: Coming Soon

Primary Meanings

• To Swim Out: The primary meaning of ἐκκολυμβάω is “to swim out,” typically referring to a person swimming out of danger or towards safety.
• To Escape by Swimming: This word is often used in the context of escaping from a shipwreck or other perilous situations by swimming away from the danger.

Similar Words:

• κολυμβάω (kolymbáō) [ko-LOOM-bah-oh]: This word means “to swim” generally, without the added connotation of swimming out or escaping.
• διασωθέω (diasōthéō) [dee-ah-so-THAY-oh]: Meaning “to save through” or “to bring safely through,” this word shares a thematic connection with ἐκκολυμβάω in contexts of escape and rescue.

Further Insights

• Morphology: The verb ἐκκολυμβάω follows the regular conjugation patterns for Greek verbs. It is typically found in the active voice, indicating that the subject is performing the action of swimming out. Its usage is often associated with narratives involving physical movement and escape.

Verb Conjugation Chart (Present Active Indicative)

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Lexicon Insights

• BDAG: The BDAG lexicon highlights ἐκκολυμβάω in the context of escaping from danger, often related to maritime disasters where swimming is the means of survival.
• Thayer’s: Thayer’s lexicon describes ἐκκολυμβάω as a verb used in physical contexts, particularly in ancient narratives where individuals must swim to escape from a shipwreck.
• Vine’s: Vine’s dictionary focuses on the metaphorical potential of ἐκκολυμβάω, noting its use in stories where physical escape also symbolizes spiritual or moral deliverance.
• LSJ: The Liddell-Scott-Jones lexicon provides examples of ἐκκολυμβάω in classical literature, where it appears in descriptions of heroic escapes by swimming.
• Strong’s Exhaustive Concordance: Strong’s Concordance emphasizes the verb’s literal meaning but also suggests its figurative use in contexts of deliverance or salvation.

Scripture References:

• Acts 27:43-44: “But the centurion, wishing to save Paul, kept them from carrying out their plan. He ordered those who could swim to jump overboard first and make for the land, and the rest on planks or on pieces of the ship. And so it was that all were brought safely to land.”

Classical Usage

In classical Greek literature, ἐκκολυμβάω is used primarily in narratives of escape, where characters swim out of danger or towards safety.

Summary of ἐκκολυμβάω (G1579: ekkolymbáō)

The Greek verb ἐκκολυμβάω (ekkolymbáō) captures the action of swimming out of danger, a concept that holds both literal and metaphorical significance in the New Testament and classical Greek literature. While its primary meaning is rooted in physical action, the word also carries connotations of escape and deliverance, making it a potent term for understanding narratives of survival and rescue. The verb is used sparingly in the New Testament but plays a crucial role in conveying the urgency and determination involved in escaping perilous situations. This word not only enriches our understanding of specific Biblical passages but also provides a window into the broader cultural and literary context of the ancient world.

Did You Know?

The word ἐκκολυμβάω was often used in ancient Greek storytelling to depict the heroism of characters who swam out of danger, symbolizing their perseverance and will to survive. This verb’s use in the New Testament continues this tradition, highlighting the physical and spiritual struggles faced by early Christians.