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Introduction
Understanding Greek verbs is essential in biblical studies for accurately interpreting the New Testament and appreciating the nuances of ancient Greek culture. The Greek verb ἐπαινέω (epainéō) is particularly significant because it conveys the act of praising or commending, which is a common theme in both religious and secular Greek literature. Recognizing the meanings and connotations of such words helps in better understanding the dynamics of honor and approval in the early Christian communities and ancient Greek society.
Key Information
- The Greek Word: ἐπαινέω, transliterated as epainéō [eh-pah-NEH-oh].
- Etymology: Derived from the combination of ἐπί (epi), meaning “upon” or “on,” and αἰνέω (aineō), meaning “to praise” or “to approve.”
- Part of Speech: Verb; present active indicative, 1st person singular.
- The F.O.G Word Choice: Coming Soon.
Primary Meanings
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- To praise, to commend, to speak in favor of.
- To approve or express admiration for someone or something.
Similar Words: αἰνέω (aineō) [ai-NEH-oh] means “to praise,” focusing more on verbal praise without the “upon” emphasis implied by ἐπαινέω. ἐγκωμιάζω (enkōmiazō) [en-ko-mee-AH-zoh] means “to praise highly” or “to extol,” often in a formal or public context.
Further Insights: ἐπαινέω is a verb that belongs to the present active indicative form in its base form. It indicates a continuous or habitual action of praising or commending. Below is a simplified chart of its conjugation in the present tense:
| Person | Singular | Plural |
|---|---|---|
| 1st | ἐπαινέω (epainéō) | ἐπαινοῦμεν (epainoumen) |
| 2nd | ἐπαινέεις (epainéis) | ἐπαινεῖτε (epaineíte) |
| 3rd | ἐπαινέει (epainéei) | ἐπαινοῦσι(ν) (epainousi(n)) |
Click here for a beginners guide to reading Greek to learn more about Greek grammar, including verb conjugations.
Lexicon Insights
BDAG: Describes ἐπαινέω as a verb meaning “to praise” or “commend.” It is used in contexts where approval or admiration is expressed for an individual or an action. The lexicon highlights its usage in both New Testament and Hellenistic Greek literature.
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Thayers: Notes that ἐπαινέω means “to praise” or “to approve.” It mentions that the verb is constructed with ἐπί (epi), suggesting an emphasis on “placing praise upon” someone or something. Thayer also points out its use in classical literature and the Septuagint.
Vines: Defines ἐπαινέω as “to praise” or “commend” and provides examples of its usage in New Testament contexts, emphasizing how it denotes approval that often leads to admiration or recognition.
LSJ: Provides a broad overview of ἐπαινέω, noting that the verb appears in various contexts in classical Greek literature, usually in relation to praise, commendation, or applause. The lexicon includes examples from well-known Greek authors such as Plato and Xenophon.
Strong’s Exhaustive Concordance: Confirms that ἐπαινέω (G1867) is derived from ἐπί (epi) and αἰνέω (aineō), meaning “to praise.” It indicates that the verb conveys the act of commendation or approval, often in a public or formal setting.
Related Scripture References
- Romans 15:11: “And again, ‘Praise the Lord, all you Gentiles, and let all the peoples [praise] him (ἐπαινέω).'”
- 1 Corinthians 11:2: “Now I commend you because you remember me in everything and maintain the traditions even as I delivered them to you (ἐπαινέω).”
Classical Usage
| Author | Name of Work | English Text with Greek Word in Parentheses |
|---|---|---|
| Plato | The Republic | “He who is just is praised (ἐπαινέω) by the gods and men alike.” |
| Xenophon | Anabasis | “The soldiers praised (ἐπαινέω) their leader for his bravery.” |
| Sophocles | Oedipus Rex | “The citizens would praise (ἐπαινέω) Oedipus for his wisdom.” |
| Septuagint Example | Psalms | “Praise (ἐπαινέω) the Lord, all you nations; extol him, all you peoples.” |
| Septuagint Example | Isaiah | “The righteous shall praise (ἐπαινέω) your name.” |
| Septuagint Example | Job | “The friends of Job would praise (ἐπαινέω) him for his integrity.” |
Summary of ἐπαινέω (G1867: Epainéō)
The verb ἐπαινέω (epainéō) plays an essential role in the New Testament and classical Greek literature by conveying the concept of praise, commendation, or approval. This word reflects the cultural and social practices of expressing admiration or honor in both religious and secular contexts. It is used to describe both divine and human praise, suggesting its broad applicability. Recognizing the nuances of this verb allows for a deeper understanding of biblical and ancient Greek texts where honor and reputation are crucial.
Did You Know?
Did you know that in ancient Greek culture, public praise (ἐπαινέω) was often a way of reinforcing social norms and virtues? Praising someone for their deeds or character in public was not only a sign of approval but also a way to encourage similar behavior in others. In the New Testament, ἐπαινέω is used to express commendation for faithfulness, reinforcing the values of the early Christian communities.
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