Introduction
In biblical studies, the Greek word ἐκχέω (ekcheō) holds considerable importance due to its frequent use in the New Testament, particularly in contexts involving the outpouring of the Holy Spirit and the shedding of blood. Understanding the nuances of this word provides deeper insights into key theological concepts, such as sacrifice, judgment, and the distribution of divine grace. The term ἐκχέω is not only relevant for interpreting New Testament passages but also enriches our understanding of how ancient Greek culture viewed the acts of pouring out or shedding, whether it was liquid, blood, or even abstract concepts like wrath or blessings.
Key Information
ἐκχέω (ekcheō) [ek-KHEH-oh]
- Etymology: Derived from the prefix ἐκ (ek, meaning “out of”) and χέω (cheō, meaning “to pour”).
- Part of Speech: Verb (Active, 1st Aorist)
- The F.O.G Word Choice: Coming Soon
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Primary Meanings
- To pour out: Refers to the act of pouring a liquid, often used in the context of offerings or libations.
- To shed: Used particularly in reference to the shedding of blood, as in sacrifices or acts of violence.
- To cause to flow: Indicates the initiation of a flow, whether of water, blood, or something more abstract like emotions or divine wrath.
Similar Words:
- χέω (cheō) [KHEH-oh]: A related verb meaning “to pour” or “to pour out,” often used in similar contexts but without the specific prefix that indicates direction (ἐκ).
- ἀναχέω (anacheō) [an-a-KHEH-oh]: Another related verb meaning “to pour out” with the prefix ἀνα (ana) implying “up” or “back,” used in contexts where the pouring is upward or backward.
Further Insights:
- Morphology: The verb ἐκχέω combines the prefix ἐκ (ek, meaning “out of”) with the root χέω (cheō, meaning “to pour”). This construction emphasizes the outward direction of the pouring or shedding, often with a sense of completeness or thoroughness.
- Usage: While ἐκχέω is frequently used in literal contexts involving the pouring of liquids, it also appears metaphorically, particularly in the New Testament, where it describes the outpouring of the Holy Spirit or the shedding of Christ’s blood.
Lexicon Insights
BDAG: The BDAG lexicon emphasizes the use of ἐκχέω in both literal and figurative contexts, highlighting its role in describing the outpouring of the Holy Spirit and the shedding of blood in sacrificial contexts.
Thayer’s: Thayer’s lexicon notes the primary usage of ἐκχέω in contexts of libation and sacrifice, pointing out its frequent application in religious rituals involving the pouring out of offerings.
Vine’s: Vine’s dictionary associates ἐκχέω with significant theological concepts in the New Testament, such as the outpouring of the Holy Spirit at Pentecost and the shedding of Christ’s blood as an atoning sacrifice.
LSJ: The Liddell-Scott-Jones lexicon provides a broader view, noting ἐκχέω’s use in classical Greek literature where it often described not only physical actions like pouring or shedding but also abstract concepts like the outpouring of emotions or divine judgment.
Strong’s Exhaustive Concordance: Strong’s highlights the verb’s occurrence in key New Testament passages, emphasizing its theological significance in describing the acts of pouring out, particularly in the context of divine actions or significant events.
Scripture References
- Acts 2:17 – “In the last days, God says, I will pour out (ἐκχέω) my Spirit on all people. Your sons and daughters will prophesy, your young men will see visions, your old men will dream dreams.”
- Matthew 26:28 – “This is my blood of the covenant, which is poured out (ἐκχέω) for many for the forgiveness of sins.”
- Romans 5:5 – “And hope does not put us to shame, because God’s love has been poured out (ἐκχέω) into our hearts through the Holy Spirit, who has been given to us.”
Classical Usage
| Author | Work | English Text |
|---|---|---|
| Homer | Iliad | “He poured (ἐκχέω) the libation to the gods, calling upon Zeus.” |
| Herodotus | Histories | “The blood of the sacrificial victims was poured out (ἐκχέω) at the altar.” |
| Aeschylus | Agamemnon | “The wine was poured out (ἐκχέω) as an offering to the gods before the feast.” |
Summary of ἐκχέω (G1632: ekcheō)
The verb ἐκχέω (ekcheō) plays a crucial role in conveying acts of pouring and shedding, both in physical and metaphorical senses. It is particularly significant in the New Testament, where it is used to describe the outpouring of the Holy Spirit and the shedding of blood in sacrificial contexts. Understanding this word provides deeper insight into key theological concepts, especially those related to divine actions and rituals. Moreover, ἐκχέω’s use in classical Greek literature demonstrates its broad application in various contexts, from religious ceremonies to everyday activities involving the pouring of liquids.
Did You Know?
Did you know that the word ἐκχέω is used in the New Testament not only to describe the outpouring of the Holy Spirit but also to signify the complete and unconditional act of pouring out one’s life or essence, as seen in Christ’s sacrificial death? This dual usage underscores the richness of the term in conveying both divine grace and human sacrifice.
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