Brief Overview of Βούλομαι (G1014: Boulomai)

Transliteration and Meaning:
The Greek verb βούλομαι (transliterated as Boulomai) is a term that broadly means “to will,” “to wish,” or “to desire.” It is often used to express a deliberate and intentional desire or choice, implying a decision made with purpose and consideration. The root of this word is closely related to βούλημα (boulēma), which denotes a more fixed and determined will or purpose. Boulomai itself can range from expressing a mere wish to indicating a resolute intention, depending on the context in which it is used.

Lexical Insights and Biblical Usage:
In various lexicons, such as BDAG, Thayer’s, and Strong’s exhaustive concordance, βούλομαι is understood as a verb that conveys the act of willing or choosing with deliberation. BDAG, in particular, emphasizes that boulomai often implies a stronger, more deliberate form of will than the more general Greek verb θέλω (thelō), which also means “to wish” or “to will.” Boulomai tends to reflect a thoughtful decision-making process, one that involves intent and purpose.

In the New Testament, boulomai appears in contexts where intentionality and deliberate choice are emphasized. For example, in Acts 5:28, the Sanhedrin’s directive to the apostles is expressed using boulomai to indicate a strong, intentional command: “We strictly charged you not to teach in this name.” Here, boulomai underscores the intentional and authoritative nature of the command. Another significant use is in James 1:18, where it is said of God, “Of his own will (boulētheis) he brought us forth by the word of truth,” emphasizing God’s deliberate and purposeful action in the salvation process.

Classical Greek Usage:
In classical Greek literature, βούλομαι was commonly used in contexts that required expressing deliberate intention or choice. For instance, in the works of Herodotus, boulomai is often used to describe the intentional decisions of rulers or individuals in positions of power. This usage emphasizes the thoughtful and deliberate nature of their actions, whether in governance or personal decision-making.

Another classical usage can be found in the philosophical writings of Aristotle, where boulomai is employed to discuss the nature of human desires and decisions. Aristotle often contrasts boulomai with more impulsive forms of desire, highlighting its association with rational thought and considered decision-making. This distinction underscores the importance of boulomai as a term that reflects reasoned and intentional choice.

A third example is found in the tragedies of Sophocles, where boulomai is used to depict characters’ internal deliberations and the decisions they make, often under intense emotional or moral pressure. The use of boulomai in these contexts highlights the gravity and intentionality of the choices being made, reflecting the deep consideration involved in such decisions.

Summary:
The verb βούλομαι (Boulomai) is a significant term in both biblical and classical Greek literature, encapsulating the concept of deliberate and intentional desire or will. It reflects a process of thoughtful decision-making, whether in human or divine contexts. Lexical sources like BDAG and Thayer’s highlight its usage to express a more deliberate form of will compared to other Greek verbs like thelō. In the New Testament, boulomai is used in contexts where intentionality is key, such as in the authoritative commands of the Sanhedrin or in God’s deliberate act of bringing believers to new life. In classical literature, boulomai appears in discussions of governance, philosophy, and drama, consistently emphasizing the rational and considered nature of decisions. Overall, boulomai serves as a term that underscores the importance of intentionality and purpose in both thought and action.