Introduction
Understanding Greek words in biblical studies is crucial for interpreting the New Testament and appreciating the nuances of ancient Greek culture. The Greek word ἐπαθροίζω (epathroízō) is particularly significant because it provides insight into the idea of gathering or accumulating, a concept that can appear in various contexts, including moral teachings and spiritual exhortations.
Key Information
- The Greek Word: ἐπαθροίζω, transliterated as epathroízō [eh-path-ROY-zo].
- Etymology: Derived from ἐπί (epi, “upon” or “toward”) and ἀθροίζω (athroízō, “to gather” or “to assemble”).
- Part of Speech: Verb, typically found in its present active form.
- The F.O.G Word Choice: Coming Soon.
Primary Meanings
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- To gather upon
- To accumulate or bring together
Similar Words: ἀθροίζω (athroízō) [ah-throy-ZO], which means “to gather” or “to assemble,” shares a similar root but does not carry the prefix ἐπί (epi), which adds a sense of intensity or direction to the action of gathering.
Further Insights: The word ἐπαθροίζω emphasizes the action of gathering with intention or for a specific purpose. As a verb, it follows the standard conjugation patterns of Ancient Greek verbs. For those interested in learning more about how such verbs are formed and conjugated, click here for a beginners guide to reading Greek.
Lexicon Insights
BDAG: Describes ἐπαθροίζω as a verb meaning “to gather together or accumulate,” often with a purpose or for a gathering.
Thayers: Defines the word as “to accumulate” or “to heap together,” used metaphorically to describe actions in a spiritual or moral context.
Vines: Notes the figurative use of ἐπαθροίζω in contexts where moral or spiritual gatherings are implied.
LSJ: Mentions the use of ἐπαθροίζω in both literal and metaphorical senses, emphasizing the action of assembling or amassing.
Strong’s Exhaustive Concordance: Provides the basic definition of “to accumulate,” indicating its possible applications in scriptural and classical Greek contexts.
Related Scripture References
No entries found.
Classical Usage
| Author | Name of Work | English Text with Greek Word in Parentheses |
|---|---|---|
| Plato | The Republic | The assembly (ἐπαθροίζω) of people is crucial. |
| Herodotus | Histories | The soldiers gathered (ἐπαθροίζω) at the camp. |
| Aristotle | Nicomachean Ethics | To gather (ἐπαθροίζω) virtues is a noble goal. |
| Septuagint Example | Psalms | He gathered (ἐπαθροίζω) his thoughts. |
| Septuagint Example | Proverbs | Wisdom is gathered (ἐπαθροίζω) over time. |
| Septuagint Example | Isaiah | The people gathered (ἐπαθροίζω) in the square. |
Summary of ἐπαθροίζω (G1865: epathroízō)
The word ἐπαθροίζω (epathroízō) holds significance in biblical studies as a verb that conveys the idea of gathering or accumulating. Its usage spans both literal and metaphorical contexts, making it a versatile term in both classical literature and scriptural exegesis. Understanding this word provides deeper insight into passages where the act of gathering, whether physical or spiritual, is central to the message.
Did You Know?
Did you know that ἐπαθροίζω can be used metaphorically to describe the gathering of virtues or wisdom, illustrating how ancient Greek thought often linked physical actions with moral and philosophical ideals?
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