Brief Overview of Γράφω (G1125: Graphō)

Graphō (γράφω) is a Greek verb found under Strong’s Concordance number G1125. The word Graphō is the root from which several related terms, such as Graphē (writing) and Graptos (written), are derived. Graphō primarily means “to write” or “to record.” This verb encompasses the act of writing in various contexts, including composing letters, inscribing words on a surface, documenting information, and authoring texts. In the New Testament, Graphō is often used to refer to the act of writing Scripture or recording divine revelations, emphasizing the importance of the written word in conveying God’s message.

Detailed Description from Lexicons

In BDAG (Bauer, Danker, Arndt, and Gingrich), Graphō is defined as “to write,” with a broad range of applications. BDAG highlights that Graphō is used in the New Testament to refer to the physical act of writing, such as when an author writes a letter or when Scripture is recorded. The lexicon also notes that Graphō can imply the act of inscribing something with authority or permanence, particularly when it involves sacred texts or legal documents.

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Thayer’s Lexicon supports this definition, describing Graphō as a verb meaning “to write” or “to describe in writing.” Thayer’s emphasizes the verb’s frequent use in the New Testament, particularly in contexts where Scripture is being referenced or where divine revelations are being documented. The lexicon also notes the use of Graphō in contexts that highlight the authority of the written word, especially in passages that begin with “It is written,” a phrase commonly used to introduce quotations from Scripture.

The LSJ (Liddell, Scott, Jones) lexicon concurs with these definitions, noting that Graphō is a verb that signifies the act of writing or drawing. LSJ points out that Graphō was commonly used in both everyday and formal contexts in ancient Greek, from writing letters to drafting legal documents or inscribing public records.

Strong’s Exhaustive Concordance describes Graphō as “to write,” focusing on its use in the New Testament to refer to the act of writing Scripture or other authoritative texts. The concordance highlights that Graphō appears frequently in the New Testament, often in the context of recording divine revelation or scriptural truths.

Examples of Graphō in the Bible include Matthew 4:4, where Jesus responds to Satan’s temptation by saying, “It is written (γέγραπται), ‘Man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word that comes from the mouth of God.'” Another example is found in John 19:19, where it is recorded that “Pilate also wrote (ἔγραψεν) an inscription and put it on the cross. It read, ‘Jesus of Nazareth, the King of the Jews.'”

Usage in Classical Greek Literature

In classical Greek literature, Graphō is widely used in various contexts to describe the act of writing, inscribing, or recording information. One example is in the works of Herodotus, where Graphō is used to describe the writing of historical records and inscriptions that commemorate important events, highlighting the role of writing in preserving history.

Another example can be found in Plato’s dialogues, where Graphō is used in philosophical discussions about the nature of writing and its role in conveying knowledge and ideas. Plato often contrasts written texts with oral tradition, using Graphō to explore the limitations and strengths of writing as a medium of communication.

A third example is from Xenophon, who uses Graphō in his historical and military writings to describe the act of drafting official documents, military orders, and treaties. This usage underscores the importance of writing in formal and governmental contexts, where precision and authority are essential.

Summary

Graphō (γράφω) is a versatile Greek verb meaning “to write” or “to record.” It serves as the root for several related terms that pertain to writing and inscriptions. In the New Testament, Graphō is frequently used to refer to the act of writing Scripture or documenting divine revelations, underscoring the importance of the written word in conveying spiritual truths. Lexicons such as BDAG, Thayer’s, and LSJ describe Graphō as encompassing a broad range of writing activities, from composing letters to inscribing authoritative texts. In classical Greek literature, Graphō is widely used to describe the act of writing in various contexts, from historical records to philosophical dialogues. The use of Graphō in both biblical and classical contexts highlights the central role of writing in preserving knowledge, conveying authority, and communicating ideas across time and cultures.