Brief Overview of ἀλείφω (G218)

The Greek verb ἀλείφω (aleiphō) means “to anoint” or “to smear with oil.” It is used in various contexts, both literal and metaphorical, in biblical texts. Literally, it refers to the application of oil, often for ritual or medical purposes. Metaphorically, it can signify spiritual or symbolic anointing, such as the consecration of individuals for a specific role or the impartation of blessings and divine favor.

Detailed Overview

1. Strong’s Concordance:

• G218 ἀλείφω (aleiphō): Strong’s Concordance defines ἀλείφω as “to anoint” or “to smear with oil.” This includes its use in religious or ceremonial contexts, such as anointing kings or priests, and in medical contexts, such as applying oil for healing. The metaphorical use can also imply the conferring of spiritual gifts or blessings.

1. Thayer’s Greek Lexicon:

• Thayer’s Lexicon provides a detailed definition of ἀλείφω as “to anoint,” particularly in religious rituals. It includes the application of oil for consecrating persons to holy office (e.g., kings, priests) and its medical use for soothing and healing. Thayer also notes its metaphorical use in the New Testament, where it symbolizes spiritual blessings and empowerment.

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

• The LSJ Lexicon defines ἀλείφω as “to anoint” or “to smear with oil,” covering both its practical and symbolic uses. It details its role in ancient Greek rituals and medicine, as well as its metaphorical applications in various Greek literary and philosophical texts. The lexicon provides examples of its use in anointing for both secular and sacred purposes.

1. Brown-Driver-Briggs (BDB) Lexicon:

• Although BDB primarily focuses on Hebrew terms, it aligns with the general definition of ἀλείφω as “to anoint.” The lexicon supports its use in both literal and figurative contexts, emphasizing its role in religious ceremonies, healing practices, and symbolic acts of consecration and blessing.

In summary, ἀλείφω (aleiphō) is a Greek verb meaning “to anoint” or “to smear with oil,” used in both literal and metaphorical contexts. Strong’s Concordance, Thayer’s Lexicon, the LSJ Lexicon, and the BDB Lexicon provide consistent definitions, highlighting its use in rituals, medical applications, and symbolic acts of imparting blessings or divine favor.