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Introduction
Understanding Greek words in Biblical studies is crucial for a deeper comprehension of the New Testament and the ancient Greek culture that influenced it. The Greek verb ἐκτείνω (ekteínō) is particularly significant because it appears in various contexts within the New Testament, often carrying the meaning of extending, stretching out, or spreading. This word encapsulates actions of reaching out physically or metaphorically, which can provide insight into the narratives and teachings of the New Testament, as well as offering a glimpse into the ways the Greeks conceptualized space and movement.
Key Information
- Greek Word: ἐκτείνω (ekteínō) [ek-TAY-noh]
- Etymology: Composed of the prefix ἐκ (ek, meaning “out”) and the verb τείνω (teínō, meaning “to stretch” or “to extend”). Together, the word conveys the idea of extending outwards or spreading.
- Part of Speech: Verb (Present Active Indicative, First Person Singular)
- The F.O.G Word Choice: Coming Soon
Primary Meanings
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- To Stretch Out – Often used to describe the physical act of extending one’s hand, arm, or something else outward.
- To Extend – Can refer to the metaphorical extension of influence, power, or authority.
- To Spread – Sometimes used in the sense of spreading over an area or extending in space.
Similar Words:
- τείνω (teínō): A more general term meaning “to stretch” or “to extend,” which is the root of ἐκτείνω but without the intensifying prefix.
- διατείνω (diateínō): A related verb that can mean “to stretch thoroughly” or “to strain,” often implying a more intense or complete stretching.
Further Insights:
- Morphology: The verb ἐκτείνω is in the present active indicative, indicating an ongoing or habitual action. The prefix ἐκ- adds a directional force to the action of stretching, emphasizing outward movement. The word is versatile in its usage, applicable in both literal and figurative contexts. Here is a full conjugation of the verb in the present tense:
| Person | Singular | Plural |
|---|---|---|
| 1st Person | ἐκτείνω | ἐκτείνουμεν |
| 2nd Person | ἐκτείνεις | ἐκτείνετε |
| 3rd Person | ἐκτείνει | ἐκτείνουσιν |
Lexicon Insights
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- BDAG: Describes ἐκτείνω primarily as “to stretch out,” often with reference to the hand or arm, and notes its frequent usage in the New Testament in contexts of prayer or offering help.
- Thayers: Highlights the verb’s use in contexts where something is being extended or spread out, such as a hand being stretched out for healing or blessing.
- Vines: Points out that ἐκτείνω is often used metaphorically to suggest the extension of influence or authority, particularly in the teachings of Jesus where it conveys the act of reaching out to others.
- LSJ: Notes that in classical Greek, ἐκτείνω was commonly used to describe physical actions involving stretching or extending, such as in athletic contexts or in the spreading of objects over a space.
- Strongs Exhaustive Concordance: Defines the word simply as “to stretch forth” or “to extend,” with particular emphasis on its use in contexts of healing or blessing.
Scripture References
- Matthew 12:13 – “Then he said to the man, ‘Stretch out (ἐκτείνω) your hand.’ And the man stretched it out, and it was restored, healthy like the other.”
- Acts 4:30 – “While you stretch out (ἐκτείνω) your hand to heal, and signs and wonders are performed through the name of your holy servant Jesus.”
Classical Usage
| Author | Work | English Text |
|---|---|---|
| Homer | Odyssey | “He stretched out (ἐκτείνω) his hands to the heavens, seeking the favor of the gods.” |
| Herodotus | Histories | “The river stretched (ἐκτείνω) across the plain, nourishing the land with its waters.” |
| Euripides | Medea | “She stretched out (ἐκτείνω) her arms in a gesture of despair, crying out to the gods for justice.” |
Summary of ἐκτείνω (G1614: ekteínō)
The Greek word ἐκτείνω (ekteínō) is a versatile verb that conveys the action of stretching out or extending. Whether it is used to describe physical actions, such as extending a hand, or metaphorical concepts, like extending influence, this word plays a significant role in the New Testament. It is often associated with acts of healing, blessing, and the extension of divine power. Understanding the usage of ἐκτείνω enriches our comprehension of the New Testament narratives and provides valuable insight into how the early Christians and ancient Greeks viewed the act of reaching out, both physically and spiritually.
Did You Know?
The word ἐκτείνω was not only used in religious contexts but also had practical applications in ancient Greek life. For example, it was often used in athletic settings to describe the action of stretching or extending the body during exercises or competitions, highlighting the word’s broader cultural significance.
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