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Introduction
In Biblical studies, understanding the nuances of Greek words can offer profound insights into the text and its interpretation. The Greek word ἐξέλκω (exelko) is particularly significant for its vivid imagery and usage in contexts of drawing out or dragging. This verb provides essential insight into the New Testament’s use of metaphor and imagery, reflecting both its literal and figurative senses. Additionally, it is relevant for understanding ancient Greek culture, where such expressions were often employed in philosophical, rhetorical, and literary works to convey deeper meanings.
Key Information
- The Greek Word: ἐξέλκω, transliterated as exelko [ex-EL-ko]
- Etymology: Derived from the prefix ἐκ (ek, “out of”) and the verb ἕλκω (helko, “to draw” or “to drag”), emphasizing the action of pulling something out with force.
- Part of Speech: Verb (commonly appears in the present and aorist forms).
- The F.O.G Word Choice: Coming Soon.
Primary Meanings
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- To draw out or pull out.
- To drag or pull by force.
- To extract or remove.
Similar Words: ἕλκω (helko) [HEL-ko] – While both ἕλκω and ἐξέλκω involve the action of drawing or pulling, ἐξέλκω includes the prefix ἐκ, adding the connotation of “out of” or “away from,” thereby intensifying the action to imply drawing out with more force or intention.
Further Insights: The verb ἐξέλκω emphasizes a forceful or deliberate action of pulling something out, whether literal or metaphorical. It can be used in contexts ranging from physical removal to figurative extraction, such as drawing out the truth or exposing hidden elements. The word is also notable for its usage in philosophical and rhetorical texts, where it often appears in discussions of uncovering or extracting deep truths or hidden meanings.
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Lexicon Insights
BDAG: Defines ἐξέλκω as “to draw out” or “to drag out,” often with the implication of force or effort. It emphasizes the act of extracting or removing something from a place or situation.
Thayers: Describes ἐξέλκω as “to draw out” or “to drag away,” particularly highlighting its use in contexts where there is a sense of compulsion or necessity in the action.
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Vines: Discusses the word primarily in terms of its meaning “to draw out” or “to pull out,” particularly in metaphorical contexts where deeper truths or hidden things are being revealed or extracted.
LSJ: In classical Greek, ἐξέλκω means “to draw out” or “to drag forth.” It appears frequently in works discussing literal actions of pulling or dragging as well as metaphorical contexts where ideas or concepts are being brought out into the open.
Strong’s Exhaustive Concordance: Lists ἐξέλκω as “to drag out” or “to draw forth,” focusing on its use in scenarios where a strong or forceful removal is implied.
Related Scripture References
- James 1:14: “But each person is tempted when they are dragged away [ἐξέλκω] by their own evil desire and enticed.”
Classical Usage
| Author | Name of Work | English Text |
|---|---|---|
| Plato | Republic | “The truth must be drawn out (ἐξέλκω) from the shadows and exposed to the light.” |
| Euripides | Bacchae | “He who would draw forth (ἐξέλκω) the spirit of the city must be prepared for resistance.” |
| Xenophon | Anabasis | “They were dragged out (ἐξέλκω) from their hiding places and brought before the assembly.” |
Summary of ἐξέλκω (G1828: exelko)
The Greek word ἐξέλκω (Strong’s G1828) is a verb that means “to draw out,” “to drag out,” or “to extract.” It is used in both literal and metaphorical contexts to describe the act of pulling something out with force or intention. In the New Testament, it appears in contexts involving the drawing out of desires or temptations. In classical Greek literature, the word is frequently used in philosophical, rhetorical, and literary discussions about revealing truths, bringing forth hidden elements, or forcibly extracting something from its place.
Did You Know?
The word ἐξέλκω not only carries a literal meaning of dragging or drawing out but also serves as a powerful metaphor in both ancient Greek philosophy and early Christian writings. Plato, for example, used this term to describe the act of bringing truths out from the shadows, emphasizing the intellectual and spiritual journey of discovery and enlightenment.
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