Brief Overview of ἀργέω (G691: argéō)

1. Brief Overview:

Transliteration: argéō

Root Words:

• The term ἀργέω (argéō) is derived from ἄργος (argos), which generally means “idle” or “inactive.”

Primary Meanings:

• To Be Idle or Unproductive: The primary meaning of ἀργέω is to be inactive, idle, or unproductive. It describes a state of doing nothing or lacking activity.
• To Be Ineffective: In a broader sense, it can imply a lack of effectiveness or usefulness, suggesting that something or someone is not fulfilling its intended purpose.

2. Detailed Description:

BDAG: BDAG defines ἀργέω as meaning to be idle, inactive, or unproductive. It emphasizes the sense of being ineffective or not engaging in productive activity. The term is used metaphorically in various contexts to describe inactivity or lack of usefulness.

Thayer’s: Thayer’s Greek Lexicon also defines ἀργέω as to be idle or inactive. It provides examples of the term being used to describe things that are unproductive or without effect.

Vines: Vines’ Expository Dictionary highlights ἀργέω as meaning to be idle or inactive. It stresses that the term conveys a sense of lack of productivity or effectiveness.

LSJ: The LSJ Lexicon describes ἀργέω as referring to being inactive or idle. It includes both literal and metaphorical uses, indicating a lack of action or effectiveness.

Strong’s Exhaustive Concordance: Strong’s defines ἀργέω as “to be idle,” noting its use in contexts where inactivity or lack of productivity is implied.

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Bible Verses:

• Matthew 20:3 (KJV): “And he went out about the third hour, and saw others standing idle in the marketplace.”
• In this verse, ἀργέω is translated as “idle,” describing those who were not engaged in work.
• Matthew 20:6 (KJV): “And about the eleventh hour he went out, and found others standing idle, and saith unto them, Why stand ye here all the day idle?”
• The term ἀργέω is used to describe people who were not working and were therefore unproductive.
• James 2:20 (KJV): “But wilt thou know, O vain man, that faith without works is dead?”
• Though the term ἀργέω is not directly used, the concept of being “vain” or “empty” can relate to the idea of inactivity or ineffectiveness.

3. Usage in Classic Greek Literature:

In classic Greek literature, ἀργέω is used to describe inactivity or lack of effectiveness:

• Homer: Describes characters or situations where inactivity or idleness is evident, using the term to emphasize the lack of action.
• Aristotle: Uses ἀργέω in discussions about productivity and effectiveness, highlighting the negative aspects of inactivity.
• Plato: Incorporates the concept of idleness in philosophical contexts, reflecting on the implications of being unproductive or inactive.

4. Summary:

The Greek term ἀργέω (G691: argéō) primarily means to be idle or unproductive, reflecting a state of inactivity or lack of effectiveness. Lexicons like BDAG, Thayer’s, Vines, and LSJ provide detailed descriptions of its use in both literal and metaphorical contexts. Biblical references and classic Greek literature offer insight into how the term is used to convey a sense of ineffectiveness or lack of productivity.