Brief Overview of ἀγρυπνέω (G69: agrypneō)

ἀγρυπνέω (agrypneō):
The Greek word “ἀγρυπνέω” (G69) means “to be sleepless,” “to keep awake,” or “to watch.” It carries the sense of being vigilant or staying alert, often used in the context of prayer, spiritual watchfulness, or careful attention.

Detailed Overview Incorporating Other Concordances

ἀγρυπνέω (agrypneō):

1. Strong’s Concordance:

• Meaning: Strong’s Concordance (G69) defines “ἀγρυπνέω” as “to be sleepless,” “to keep awake,” or “to watch.” It is used in contexts where vigilance and alertness are required, such as in Mark 13:33, where Jesus instructs His disciples to be watchful and alert.

1. Thayer’s Greek Lexicon:

• Meaning: Thayer’s Lexicon describes “ἀγρυπνέω” as “to be sleepless” and “to watch.” It emphasizes the figurative use of the term to mean being spiritually awake or vigilant. For example, in Ephesians 6:18, believers are encouraged to be alert and pray at all times with perseverance.

1. Vine’s Expository Dictionary of New Testament Words:

• Meaning: Vine’s Dictionary notes that “ἀγρυπνέω” means “to be sleepless” or “to keep awake.” It points out that the term is often used in the New Testament in connection with spiritual vigilance and prayer. It is seen in passages such as Luke 21:36, where Jesus urges His followers to stay awake and pray to escape what is about to happen.

1. Bauer-Danker-Arndt-Gingrich (BDAG) Greek-English Lexicon:

• Meaning: The BDAG Lexicon defines “ἀγρυπνέω” as “to be awake” and “to keep awake,” with an emphasis on vigilance. It notes the term’s usage in contexts where alertness and attentiveness are necessary, such as in Hebrews 13:17, where leaders are described as keeping watch over the souls of their flock.

1. Liddell-Scott-Jones (LSJ) Greek-English Lexicon:

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• Meaning: The LSJ Lexicon provides the classical context, indicating that “ἀγρυπνέω” means “to be sleepless” or “to keep awake.” In ancient Greek literature, it is used both literally and figuratively to describe staying awake or being vigilant.

Summary:
The word “ἀγρυπνέω” (agrypneō) means “to be sleepless,” “to keep awake,” or “to watch.” Strong’s Concordance identifies it as a term for vigilance and alertness. Thayer’s Lexicon and Vine’s Dictionary emphasize its use in the New Testament to convey spiritual wakefulness and attentiveness, particularly in the context of prayer and watchfulness. The BDAG Lexicon highlights its importance in leadership and pastoral care, while the LSJ Lexicon provides a broader classical understanding of the term, showing its usage in both literal and figurative senses. In the New Testament, “ἀγρυπνέω” underscores the need for spiritual vigilance and persistent prayer.