Brief Overview of Γηράσκω (G1095: gēraskō)

Transliteration and Meaning:
The Greek word γηράσκω (transliterated as gēraskō and pronounced as “ghay-rah-sko”) is a verb that primarily means “to grow old” or “to become aged.” It is derived from the root γῆρας (gēras), which means “old age.” The word is used in various contexts to describe the process of aging, whether it be in reference to individuals, living organisms, or even metaphorically to inanimate objects that have aged over time. Gēraskō is a word that reflects the natural progression of life and is found in a variety of ancient Greek texts, both within and outside of the biblical tradition.

Lexical Insights and Biblical Usage:
In various Greek lexicons, such as BDAG, Thayer’s, and Strong’s, γηράσκω is consistently defined as “to grow old” or “to become elderly.” BDAG provides an emphasis on the natural progression towards old age, noting that the word can be used both in literal and metaphorical senses. Thayer’s Lexicon elaborates on the usage by explaining that γηράσκω often conveys not just the physical process of aging but also the accumulation of experiences and wisdom that comes with age.

While the word γηράσκω itself is not commonly found in the New Testament, its concept is present throughout the Scriptures, where aging is often seen as a sign of honor and wisdom, as well as a natural part of life. For example, Proverbs 16:31 mentions, “Gray hair is a crown of glory; it is gained in a righteous life,” reflecting the cultural respect for aging and the wisdom that comes with it. The word itself is more often found in the Septuagint, the Greek translation of the Old Testament, where it is used in passages discussing the aging of individuals or the decline of nations over time.

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Usage in Classical Greek Literature:
Gēraskō is a word that appears in various contexts in classical Greek literature. For instance, it is used by Homer in the Iliad to describe the aging warriors who have gained wisdom and experience through their years. Similarly, in works by Sophocles, the word is used to convey the inevitable passage of time and the effects of aging on both individuals and societies. In philosophical texts, such as those by Plato, γηράσκω is employed to discuss the process of aging in the context of the human condition and the pursuit of knowledge throughout one’s life.

Summary:
The Greek verb γηράσκω (G1095), transliterated as gēraskō, means “to grow old” or “to become aged.” Rooted in the word γῆρας (gēras), meaning “old age,” it reflects the natural progression of life and is used in various contexts to describe the process of aging. Lexicons such as BDAG and Thayer’s highlight its literal and metaphorical uses, emphasizing the accumulation of experience and wisdom with age. Though not frequently found in the New Testament, the concept of aging is deeply embedded in Scripture and classical Greek literature, where it is often associated with honor, wisdom, and the inevitable passage of time. From Homer’s epics to philosophical discussions by Plato, γηράσκω has been used to articulate the universal experience of aging, both as a physical process and a metaphor for the human journey through life.