Brief Overview of ἀριστάω (G709: aristáō)

1. Brief Overview:

Transliteration: aristáō

Root Words:

• ἀριστάω (aristáō): This verb comes from the Greek root ἄριστος (áristos) meaning “best” or “excellent.” The verb form ἀριστάω implies a sense of excelling or being superior.

Primary Meanings:

• To Excel: The main meaning of ἀριστάω is to excel or to be distinguished by excellence. It conveys the idea of surpassing others in quality or ability.
• To Act Superior: It can also denote acting or behaving in a way that shows one is superior or outstanding.

2. Detailed Description:

BDAG: BDAG describes ἀριστάω as a verb meaning “to be superior” or “to excel.” It notes that the term is used to express surpassing others in excellence or quality. The focus is on the distinction and high standing of someone or something.

Thayer’s: Thayer’s Greek Lexicon defines ἀριστάω as “to be excellent” or “to excel,” emphasizing the aspect of being outstanding or surpassing in a particular quality or action.

Vines: Vines’ Expository Dictionary mentions ἀριστάω in relation to excellence or preeminence. It highlights the verb’s use in indicating a surpassing or superior quality.

LSJ: The LSJ Lexicon provides a general meaning of ἀριστάω as “to excel” or “to be the best,” consistent with its use in various contexts to denote a high level of superiority.

Strong’s Exhaustive Concordance: Strong’s identifies ἀριστάω with the meaning “to be superior” or “to excel,” emphasizing its role in describing someone or something that stands out due to excellence.

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Bible Verses:

• 1 Corinthians 12:31 (KJV): “But covet earnestly the best gifts: and yet shew I unto you a more excellent way.”
• Although ἀριστάω is not directly used here, the concept of striving for excellence is reflected in the context.
• Philippians 1:10 (KJV): “That ye may approve things that are excellent; that ye may be sincere and without offence till the day of Christ.”
• The idea of excellence is central, relating to the concept of being superior or distinguished.

3. Usage in Classic Greek Literature:

In classic Greek literature, ἀριστάω is used to convey the notion of superiority or excellence in various contexts. Examples include:

• Homer’s “Iliad”: In the context of heroic excellence, characters are often described in terms of their superiority in battle or noble deeds.
• Aristotle’s “Nicomachean Ethics”: The concept of excellence (ἀρετή) is central, although the specific verb ἀριστάω might not be used, the idea of surpassing others in virtue is prevalent.
• Plato’s Dialogues: The notion of being the best or superior in philosophical discussion aligns with the idea of ἀριστάω, although the verb itself might not be directly cited.

4. Summary:

The term ἀριστάω (G709: aristáō) is a Greek verb meaning “to excel” or “to be superior.” It reflects the idea of surpassing others in excellence or quality. BDAG and other lexicons affirm its use in indicating high standing or distinction. Although not frequently used in the New Testament, the concept of excellence is relevant to the biblical context of striving for the best. Classic Greek literature illustrates the use of related concepts of superiority and excellence, reinforcing the meaning of ἀριστάω.