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Introduction
The Greek verb ἐκλέγομαι (eklegomai) is a significant term in biblical studies, carrying with it connotations of choice, selection, and election. Understanding this word is crucial for interpreting key theological concepts in the New Testament, particularly in discussions about God’s sovereign will and the chosen people. Additionally, the cultural context of ancient Greece sheds light on how this term was understood and used in broader society. This overview aims to unpack the layers of meaning behind ἐκλέγομαι and its implications for both biblical interpretation and understanding ancient Greek thought.
Key Information
- Greek Word: ἐκλέγομαι (eklegomai) [ek-LEH-go-my]
- Etymology: Derived from the prefix ἐκ (ek), meaning “out of,” and the verb λέγω (legō), meaning “to say” or “to choose.”
- Part of Speech: Verb (Middle voice, deponent, present indicative)
- The F.O.G Word Choice: Coming Soon
Primary Meanings
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- To Choose: The primary meaning of ἐκλέγομαι is “to choose” or “to select,” often implying a deliberate decision.
- To Elect: In a theological context, it is used to describe God’s act of choosing individuals or groups for a specific purpose or destiny.
- To Pick Out: This meaning emphasizes the action of selecting something or someone from a larger group.
Similar Words:
- αἱρέομαι (haireomai) [hai-REH-o-my]: A related verb meaning “to choose,” often with a more personal or preferential nuance.
- προορίζω (proorizō) [pro-o-RI-zo]: Another related verb meaning “to predestine,” which carries a stronger sense of divine determination compared to ἐκλέγομαι.
Further Insights
- Morphology: ἐκλέγομαι is a deponent verb, meaning it appears in the middle voice but functions with an active meaning. This is significant because it emphasizes the subject’s involvement in the act of choosing, often in a reflective or intentional manner.
- Notable Linguistic Features: The prefix ἐκ- (ek-) suggests a selection from among others, implying that the choice is made from a larger set, reinforcing the idea of exclusivity in the selection process.
Verb Conjugation Chart (Present Indicative Middle)
| Person | Singular | Plural | Example Translation |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1st | ἐκλέγομαι | ἐκλεγόμεθα | “I choose” / “We choose” |
| 2nd | ἐκλέγῃ | ἐκλέγεσθε | “You choose” / “You all choose” |
| 3rd | ἐκλέγεται | ἐκλέγονται | “He/She/It chooses” / “They choose” |
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Lexicon Insights
- BDAG: The BDAG lexicon emphasizes the theological significance of ἐκλέγομαι, particularly in Pauline epistles, where it is used to describe God’s sovereign choice of individuals or groups for specific roles or purposes in His plan.
- Thayer’s: Thayer’s lexicon highlights the verb’s use in the New Testament to denote the selection of believers, emphasizing the aspect of divine election and calling.
- Vine’s: Vine’s Expository Dictionary notes the broader application of ἐκλέγομαι in both secular and sacred contexts, illustrating how the concept of choice was understood in everyday Greek life as well as in religious contexts.
- LSJ: The Liddell-Scott-Jones lexicon provides classical examples of ἐκλέγομαι, showing its usage in contexts of political and social selection, such as choosing leaders or representatives.
- Strong’s Exhaustive Concordance: Strong’s highlights the significance of ἐκλέγομαι in the context of divine selection, particularly in relation to the idea of God’s chosen people or elect.
Scripture References:
- Ephesians 1:4: “For he chose (ἐκλέγομαι) us in him before the foundation of the world, that we should be holy and blameless before him.”
- Mark 13:20: “And if the Lord had not shortened the days, no human being would be saved. But for the sake of the elect (ἐκλέγομαι), whom he chose, he shortened the days.”
Classical Usage
In classical Greek literature, ἐκλέγομαι is frequently used in contexts of political or social selection, emphasizing the deliberative process of choosing leaders, representatives, or specific individuals for particular tasks.
| Author | Work | Text |
|---|---|---|
| Herodotus | “Histories” | “The assembly chose (ἐκλέγομαι) the leaders from among the most esteemed men.” |
| Plato | “Republic” | “The philosopher king was chosen (ἐκλέγομαι) for his wisdom and virtue.” |
| Sophocles | “Antigone” | “The council chose (ἐκλέγομαι) to honor the fallen hero with a public burial.” |
Summary of ἐκλέγομαι (G1586: eklegomai)
The Greek verb ἐκλέγομαι (eklegomai) is a term rich with meaning and significance, particularly in the context of biblical studies. It conveys the act of choosing or electing, whether by humans in everyday life or by God in the spiritual realm. Understanding this verb provides insight into the nature of divine selection, as well as the cultural practices of ancient Greece, where choice and selection were integral to social and political life. The theological implications of ἐκλέγομαι are profound, making it a key term in discussions about predestination, election, and the role of the church.
Did You Know?
In ancient Greek society, the process of election (ἐκλέγομαι) was not only a political act but also a deeply cultural one. Leaders and representatives were chosen not just for their abilities but for their perceived moral and ethical qualities, reflecting the high value placed on virtue and wisdom in leadership.
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