Brief Overview of ἐξηγέομαι (Strong’s G1834: exēgéomai)

Introduction

Understanding Greek words is essential for Biblical studies as it provides deeper insights into the original text and its cultural context. The Greek word ἐξηγέομαι (exēgéomai) is particularly significant in New Testament interpretation because it refers to the act of explaining or interpreting. This word is often associated with clarifying divine or complex teachings, making it essential for understanding the transmission of knowledge and tradition in both the early church and ancient Greek culture.

Key Information

• The Greek Word: ἐξηγέομαι, transliterated as exēgéomai [ex-ay-GEH-oh-my]
• Etymology: Derived from ἐκ (ek, “out of”) and ἡγέομαι (hēgéomai, “to lead” or “to guide”), combining to mean “to lead out” or “to interpret.”
• Part of Speech: Verb; middle voice, indicative mood, present tense.
• The F.O.G Word Choice: Coming Soon.

Primary Meanings

• To explain or interpret; to provide a detailed account.
• To expound or unfold a concept, particularly divine or mysterious teachings.
• To lead out; in the sense of guiding one’s understanding from confusion to clarity.

Similar Words: διασαφέω (diasapheō) [dee-ah-sah-FEH-oh] – While both ἐξηγέομαι and διασαφέω mean to explain or clarify, διασαφέω often implies making something clear through detailed explanation or description. In contrast, ἐξηγέομαι emphasizes guiding someone to an understanding, especially of something profound or spiritual.

Further Insights: The verb ἐξηγέομαι focuses on the act of leading out or drawing out understanding, particularly in the context of teaching or explaining divine truths. Its middle voice form implies an emphasis on the subject’s role in explaining or interpreting. The term is often used in scriptural exegesis, where deep and careful interpretation is required.
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Lexicon Insights

BDAG: Defines ἐξηγέομαι as “to explain” or “to interpret,” frequently used in contexts where an authoritative explanation or account is needed, particularly regarding divine or theological matters.

Thayers: Highlights ἐξηγέομαι as “to lead out, to unfold,” often in the sense of expounding a teaching or narrative. It emphasizes the interpreter’s role in making hidden or profound knowledge accessible.

Vines: Focuses on ἐξηγέομαι in its usage to “unfold or declare” divine mysteries, often relating to scriptural or prophetic contexts, where clarity and depth of understanding are required.

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LSJ: Lists ἐξηγέομαι as “to interpret” or “to lead out,” noting its frequent use in philosophical, religious, and rhetorical contexts where explanation and guidance are needed to bring forth understanding.

Strong’s Exhaustive Concordance: Provides the definition of ἐξηγέομαι as “to explain” or “to narrate in full,” highlighting its role in expounding or interpreting, especially within Biblical and classical Greek literature.

Related Scripture References

• John 1:18: “No one has seen God at any time; the only begotten God who is in the bosom of the Father, He has explained [ἐξηγήσατο] Him.”
• Luke 24:35: “And they began to relate their experiences on the road and how He was recognized by them in the breaking [ἐξηγήσαντο] of the bread.”

Classical Usage

Summary of ἐξηγέομαι (G1834: exēgéomai)

The Greek word ἐξηγέομαι (Strong’s G1834) is a verb meaning “to explain,” “to interpret,” or “to unfold.” It appears in contexts requiring detailed and authoritative explanations, especially in matters of theology, prophecy, and divine mysteries. In the New Testament, it is used to describe the act of making known or interpreting deep truths. In classical literature, it is associated with guidance, teaching, and providing clarity. This word’s significance in both Biblical and secular texts highlights its importance in ancient and contemporary exegesis, emphasizing careful interpretation and understanding of profound knowledge.

Did You Know?

The word ἐξηγέομαι is where we get the English term “exegesis,” which refers to the critical explanation or interpretation of a text, especially scripture. This connection underscores the enduring importance of the term in both theological study and literary analysis today.