Introduction
Understanding Greek words is crucial for deeper Biblical studies and interpreting the New Testament accurately. The Greek word ἐξομολογέω (exomologéō) is particularly significant in the New Testament because it involves the concept of confession, both of sin and of God’s greatness. This word is key to understanding various passages that deal with repentance, public acknowledgment, and worship, which are essential themes in both the New Testament and ancient Greek culture.
Key Information
- The Greek Word: ἐξομολογέω, transliterated as exomologéō [ex-o-mo-LOH-geh-oh]
- Etymology: Derived from ἐκ (ek, “out of”) and ὁμολογέω (homologéō, “to confess” or “to agree”), meaning “to confess out” or “to fully acknowledge.”
- Part of Speech: Verb; typically used in the middle or passive voice.
- The F.O.G Word Choice: Coming Soon.
Primary Meanings
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- To confess or admit
- To agree or acknowledge
- To praise or declare openly
- To give thanks
Similar Words: ἐξομολογέω (exomologéō) compared to ὁμολογέω (homologéō) [ho-mo-loh-GEH-oh], which also means “to confess” or “to agree.” However, ὁμολογέω often emphasizes a general agreement or confession, while ἐξομολογέω carries a stronger sense of a public, complete, and sometimes emotional confession or declaration. Another related word is ἐπαγγέλλω (epangellō) [e-pan-GEL-lo], meaning “to proclaim” or “to announce,” which involves a declaration but does not carry the same depth of personal confession or admission as ἐξομολογέω.
Further Insights: ἐξομολογέω is a verb often used in religious contexts to denote a confession of faith or sins, emphasizing the act of publicly acknowledging something profound, such as one’s faults or God’s majesty. Its form implies a depth of sincerity and is frequently linked to acts of worship or repentance.
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Lexicon Insights
BDAG: Defines ἐξομολογέω as “to confess, admit, acknowledge,” with an emphasis on the public nature of the confession, whether it be of sins or of God’s works. It is noted as frequently occurring in liturgical settings.
Thayers: Describes ἐξομολογέω as “to confess fully, to profess or acknowledge openly.” This lexicon highlights its usage in both the Gospels and the Epistles, where it is often associated with repentance and worship.
Vines: Focuses on ἐξομολογέω as a term denoting confession that is not merely mental or internal but outward and public, stressing the aspect of declaration in prayer or worship.
LSJ: The Liddell-Scott-Jones lexicon extends the definition to include “to agree or to concede,” with an emphasis on the context of public or formal acknowledgment, such as in law courts or assemblies.
Strong’s Exhaustive Concordance: Lists ἐξομολογέω as “to acknowledge or confess,” linking it particularly to contexts where one admits guilt or sin before God or men, or when one gives thanks and praise.
Related Scripture References
- Matthew 3:6: “And were baptized of him in Jordan, confessing [ἐξομολογούμενοι] their sins.”
- Romans 14:11: “For it is written, As I live, saith the Lord, every knee shall bow to me, and every tongue shall confess [ἐξομολογήσεται] to God.”
- Philippians 2:11: “And that every tongue should confess [ἐξομολογήσηται] that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father.”
Classical Usage
| Author | Name of Work | English Text |
|---|---|---|
| Plutarch | Moralia | “The wise man shall not only confess (ἐξομολογεῖσθαι) his faults but also seek to rectify them publicly.” |
| Polybius | Histories | “He decided to confess (ἐξομολογηθείς) his loyalty to the Romans before the council.” |
| Philo | On the Special Laws | “The high priest would confess (ἐξομολογεῖται) the sins of the people on the Day of Atonement.” |
| Author | Name of Work | English Text |
|---|---|---|
| Septuagint | Psalms | “I will confess (ἐξομολογήσομαι) to the Lord with my whole heart.” |
| Septuagint | Leviticus | “And he shall confess (ἐξομολογήσεται) all his iniquity.” |
| Septuagint | Daniel | “To thee, O Lord, belongeth righteousness, but unto us confusion of face, as at this day; we confess (ἐξομολογούμενοι) our sins.” |
Summary of ἐξομολογέω (G1843: exomologéō)
The Greek word ἐξομολογέω (Strong’s G1843), meaning “to confess” or “to acknowledge,” is a potent term used in both the New Testament and classical Greek literature to signify a deep, often public, confession. It plays a crucial role in understanding Christian practices of repentance and worship, particularly in the context of confessing sins or declaring faith in God. The word’s etymology, combined with its usage in ancient texts, underscores its significance in both theological and cultural discussions.
Did You Know?
The use of the word ἐξομολογέω in ancient Greek contexts wasn’t limited to religious texts. It was also used in legal and public settings where individuals would publicly confess or declare a fact or allegiance, adding to the understanding of its depth and versatility in ancient Greek culture.
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