Brief Overview of ἐκτρέπω (Strong’s G1624: ektrepō)

Introduction

In the study of Biblical Greek, understanding the nuances of specific words can significantly deepen our interpretation of Scripture. The Greek verb ἐκτρέπω (ektrepō) is one such word, carrying meanings related to turning away or diverting. This term is particularly important in understanding New Testament exhortations and warnings, where it is often used metaphorically to describe a spiritual or moral deviation from a set path. By exploring the word ἐκτρέπω, we can gain insights into its application both in Biblical texts and in the broader context of ancient Greek culture.

Key Information

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• Greek Word: ἐκτρέπω (ektrepō) [ek-TREH-poh]
• Etymology: Composed of the preposition ἐκ (ek), meaning “out of” or “from,” and τρέπω (trepō), meaning “to turn.” Thus, ἐκτρέπω literally means “to turn out” or “to turn away.”
• Part of Speech: Verb (active voice, transitive)
• The F.O.G Word Choice: Coming Soon

Primary Meanings

• To turn away – Used literally or metaphorically to describe a physical or moral turning aside.
• To divert – Can indicate a deviation from a course or path.
• To deflect – Often used in military contexts to describe turning aside an attack.

Similar Words:

• ἀποστρέφω (apostrephō): Another verb meaning “to turn away,” but more often used to describe a complete turning away, often with the implication of rejection.
• μεταστρέφω (metastrephō): Meaning “to turn around” or “to change,” this word can be used to describe a reversal or transformation, differing from ἐκτρέπω in its emphasis on a more profound change.

Further Insights:

• Morphology: The verb ἐκτρέπω is conjugated in the active voice and can be found in various tenses in the New Testament. It often appears in contexts where deviation from a moral or spiritual path is discussed, emphasizing the action of turning away from something. Tense Greek Transliteration Translation Present ἐκτρέπει ektrepei He/She turns away Future ἐκτρέψει ektrepsei He/She will turn away Aorist ἐξέτρεψε(ν) exetrepsen He/She turned away Perfect ἐκτρέπεται ektrepetai He/She has turned away

Lexicon Insights

• BDAG: ἐκτρέπω is defined primarily as “to turn aside” or “to deviate.” It is noted for its metaphorical use in describing moral or doctrinal deviation.
• Thayers: Emphasizes the verb’s use in New Testament passages to describe turning away from the faith or from righteous paths.
• Vines: Highlights the use of ἐκτρέπω in pastoral epistles where it often relates to warnings against false teachings or unworthy conduct.
• LSJ: Provides examples of ἐκτρέπω in classical Greek, where it is used to describe literal physical turning, as well as metaphorical diversion from a goal.
• Strongs Exhaustive Concordance: Lists ἐκτρέπω as “to turn aside” or “to avoid,” with references to its occurrences in the New Testament.

Scripture References

• 1 Timothy 1:6 – “Certain persons, by swerving (ἐκτρέπω) from these, have wandered away into vain discussion.”
• Hebrews 12:13 – “Make straight paths for your feet, so that what is lame may not be put out of joint but rather be healed (ἐκτρέπω).”

Classical Usage

Summary of ἐκτρέπω (G1624: ektrepō)

The Greek verb ἐκτρέπω (ektrepō) is rich in meaning, primarily denoting the act of turning away or diverting. In the New Testament, it is often used metaphorically to describe a departure from faith or righteousness, making it a key term in understanding moral and spiritual exhortations. Its classical usage further underscores its role in describing physical and metaphorical deviations from a path or course, providing a fuller picture of how this word functioned in ancient Greek thought.

Did You Know?

The verb ἐκτρέπω, while simple in form, has significant implications in moral and spiritual contexts. Its use in the New Testament often carries a warning against deviation from the teachings of Christ, reminding readers of the importance of staying true to the path of faith. This verb encapsulates the struggle between following the straight and narrow way versus being led astray by false teachings or temptations.