Brief Overview of ἀναγκαῖος (Strong’s G316:)

ἀναγκαῖος (anankaios) is an adjective in Greek with several meanings:

1. Necessary: It describes something that is essential or required.
2. Indispensable: It can imply that something is unavoidable or indispensable.
3. Compulsory: It may also denote something that is obligatory or compulsory.

Detailed Overview with Concordances

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1. BDAG (A Greek-English Lexicon of the New Testament and Other Early Christian Literature):

• BDAG defines ἀναγκαῖος as “necessary” or “indispensable.” It emphasizes that the term refers to something that is required or essential in a given context. For example, in Philippians 1:24, it is used to indicate the necessity of continuing in the flesh for the benefit of the Philippians, implying that it is crucial or unavoidable.

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

• LSJ provides a definition for ἀναγκαῖος as “necessary” or “indispensable,” reflecting its use in classical Greek to describe something that is required or obligatory. The lexicon highlights its application in various contexts where something cannot be avoided or is essential.

3. Thayer’s Greek Lexicon:

• Thayer explains ἀναγκαῖος as meaning “necessary” or “compulsory.” Thayer notes that it is used to describe things that are required or indispensable, emphasizing its role in indicating necessity or obligation.

4. Strong’s Concordance:

• Strong’s Concordance lists ἀναγκαῖος under G316, defining it as “necessary” or “indispensable.” This definition aligns with its usage in the New Testament to denote something that is required or unavoidable.

Summary:
ἀναγκαῖος (anankaios) is a Greek adjective meaning “necessary” or “indispensable,” and it can also imply something that is compulsory or required. Major lexicons, including BDAG, LSJ, Thayer’s Greek Lexicon, and Strong’s Concordance, emphasize its use to describe things that are essential, unavoidable, or obligatory in various contexts.