Brief Overview of ἐκτρέφω (Strong’s G1625: ektrephō)

Introduction

Understanding the original Greek words used in the New Testament is essential for a deeper comprehension of the scriptures. The word ἐκτρέφω (ektrephō) is particularly significant as it sheds light on concepts related to nurturing, rearing, and nourishing—central themes in Christian teaching regarding spiritual growth and care. This verb appears in key passages that discuss the upbringing and care of children, both in the literal and metaphorical sense. Studying ἐκτρέφω allows us to better grasp the richness of the New Testament’s teachings on family life, spiritual leadership, and the nurturing role of believers within the Christian community.

Key Information

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• Greek Word: ἐκτρέφω (ektrephō) [ek-TREH-foh]
• Etymology: Derived from the preposition ἐκ (ek), meaning “out of” or “from,” and τρέφω (trephō), meaning “to nourish” or “to feed.” The compound word thus means “to bring up” or “to nourish thoroughly.”
• Part of Speech: Verb (active voice, transitive)
• The F.O.G Word Choice: Coming Soon

Primary Meanings

• To nourish – Refers to the act of feeding or providing sustenance.
• To rear or bring up – Indicates the process of raising children or taking care of someone’s growth and development, often with a focus on nurturing and care.
• To foster or cherish – Implies not just physical care, but also emotional and spiritual nurturing.

Similar Words:

• τρέφω (trephō): This verb shares a root with ἐκτρέφω and generally means “to nourish” or “to feed.” However, ἐκτρέφω often carries a more intensive meaning, emphasizing the thoroughness of the care provided.
• ἀνατρέφω (anatrephō): Meaning “to bring up” or “to educate,” this verb is closely related but often used in the context of nurturing or educating in a broader sense, including moral and intellectual upbringing.

Further Insights:

• Morphology: The verb ἐκτρέφω is conjugated in various tenses in the New Testament, typically in the active voice. It is used in contexts that emphasize care, nurturing, and growth, whether physical, emotional, or spiritual. Tense Greek Transliteration Translation Present ἐκτρέφει ektrephei He/She nourishes Future ἐκτρέψει ektrepsei He/She will nourish Aorist ἐξέτρεψε(ν) exetrepsen He/She nourished Perfect ἐκτρέφεται ektrephetai He/She has nourished

Lexicon Insights

• BDAG: ἐκτρέφω is defined as “to bring up” or “to nourish,” with an emphasis on the act of raising children or caring for dependents. It is noted for its use in familial and educational contexts.
• Thayers: This lexicon highlights the word’s use in the New Testament to describe the act of nurturing children, both physically and spiritually.
• Vines: Emphasizes the nurturing aspect of ἐκτρέφω, particularly in passages that discuss the upbringing of children in a Christian context.
• LSJ: In classical Greek, ἐκτρέφω is used to describe the act of feeding or nurturing, with examples from various ancient texts illustrating its use in both literal and metaphorical senses.
• Strongs Exhaustive Concordance: Lists ἐκτρέφω as “to nourish” or “to rear,” with references to its occurrences in the New Testament, especially in passages discussing family and spiritual care.

Scripture References

• Ephesians 6:4 – “Fathers, do not provoke your children to anger, but bring them up (ἐκτρέφω) in the discipline and instruction of the Lord.”
• 1 Timothy 5:10 – “And having a reputation for good works: if she has brought up (ἐκτρέφω) children, has shown hospitality, has washed the feet of the saints, has cared for the afflicted, and has devoted herself to every good work.”

Classical Usage

Summary of ἐκτρέφω (G1625: ektrephō)

The Greek verb ἐκτρέφω (ektrephō) holds significant meaning in the context of nurturing and bringing up individuals, whether physically, emotionally, or spiritually. It is a term deeply embedded in the cultural and moral fabric of both ancient Greek society and New Testament teachings. The verb’s usage in scripture underscores the importance of thorough care and growth, particularly in the upbringing of children and the fostering of spiritual development within the Christian community.

Did You Know?

The verb ἐκτρέφω is not limited to the physical act of feeding but also encompasses the broader concept of nurturing in all aspects of life. It is a word that calls believers to care for one another deeply, ensuring the holistic development of those within their community. This nurturing aspect is a cornerstone of Christian teaching, emphasizing the responsibility of fostering growth in faith, love, and wisdom.