ἀμύνομαι (amunomai) is a Greek verb found in the New Testament.
Possible Meanings:
- To Defend: The primary meaning is to defend oneself or to make a defense. This is often in the context of defending one’s actions or beliefs.
- To Ward Off: It can also mean to ward off or repel, often used metaphorically to indicate resisting or protecting against accusations or attacks.
Detailed Overview with Concordances
1. BDAG (A Greek-English Lexicon of the New Testament and Other Early Christian Literature):
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- BDAG defines ἀμύνομαι as a verb meaning “to defend oneself” or “to ward off.” It emphasizes the act of defending or protecting oneself against accusations or attacks. The lexicon notes that it is used in the sense of making a defense, particularly in a legal or rhetorical context. BDAG provides detailed examples of how this verb is used in various Greek literature and its implications.
2. LSJ (Liddell-Scott-Jones Greek-English Lexicon):
- LSJ offers a definition of ἀμύνομαι as “to ward off,” particularly in the sense of defending oneself against something, such as accusations or attacks. The lexicon emphasizes its use in classical literature to indicate protection or resistance against hostile forces or criticisms.
3. Thayer’s Greek Lexicon:
- Thayer describes ἀμύνομαι as meaning “to defend oneself” or “to make a defense.” He notes that it is used in the New Testament to describe the act of defending one’s actions or position, particularly in the context of apologetics or legal defense.
4. Strong’s Concordance:
- Strong’s Concordance lists ἀμύνομαι under the number G292 and defines it as “to defend oneself” or “to ward off.” It highlights its use in the New Testament to describe the act of making a defense in response to accusations or challenges.
Summary:
ἀμύνομαι (amunomai) is a Greek verb that means to defend oneself or to ward off. In the New Testament, it is used to describe the act of making a defense against accusations or attacks. BDAG, LSJ, Thayer’s Greek Lexicon, and Strong’s Concordance all align in their definitions, emphasizing its usage in the context of self-defense or resistance, particularly in legal or rhetorical settings.
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