Brief Overview of ἁλιεύω (G232)

The Greek word ἁλιεύω (halieuo) means “to fish.” It is a verb used to describe the act of catching fish. In biblical contexts, it typically refers to the activity of fishing in a literal sense. The term is related to the occupation of fishermen and is used in the New Testament to describe the work of individuals who fish for a living.

Detailed Overview

1. Strong’s Concordance:

• G232 ἁλιεύω (halieuo): Strong’s Concordance defines this term as “to fish,” specifically referring to the activity of catching fish. This verb is used in the context of fishing as a profession and is associated with the calling of the disciples who were fishermen by trade. For example, Jesus tells Simon Peter and Andrew in Matthew 4:19, “Follow me, and I will make you fishers of men.”

1. Thayer’s Greek Lexicon:

• Thayer’s Lexicon describes ἁλιεύω as “to fish” or “to catch fish.” The lexicon notes that this verb is used in the New Testament to denote the literal act of fishing. It also highlights the connection between this term and the occupation of fishermen, noting how Jesus’ calling of his disciples from their fishing work symbolically relates to their future role in “catching” people for the kingdom of God.

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

• The LSJ Lexicon confirms the meaning of ἁλιεύω as “to fish.” It provides details on how this verb was used in various Greek texts to describe the act of catching fish. This lexicon also places the term in a broader historical and cultural context, showing its relevance to the daily life of people in the ancient world.

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

• Although primarily focused on Hebrew terms, the BDB Lexicon supports the understanding of related Greek terms, providing context on occupations like fishing. It aligns with the New Testament usage of ἁλιεύω, emphasizing its role in describing the fishing activity of the disciples.

In summary, ἁλιεύω (halieuo) means “to fish” and is used to describe the act of catching fish. Strong’s Concordance, Thayer’s Lexicon, the LSJ Lexicon, and contextual information from the BDB Lexicon all support this definition and highlight its significance in the New Testament, particularly in relation to the disciples’ profession and Jesus’ calling of them to be “fishers of men.”