Brief Overview of γέμω (G1073: gémō)

Transliteration and Meaning:
The Greek word γέμω (transliterated as gémō and pronounced as “GEH-mo”) is a verb that primarily means “to be full” or “to be filled with.” It conveys the idea of something being completely occupied or saturated with a particular substance or quality. The word is often used to describe physical fullness, such as a container filled with liquid or a space filled with people. However, it can also be applied metaphorically to indicate a state of being replete with particular attributes or conditions.

Lexical Insights and Biblical Usage:
According to various lexicons like BDAG, Thayer’s, and Strong’s Exhaustive Concordance, γέμω is used to describe an abundance or completeness of something within a given space. BDAG particularly highlights its usage in contexts where a specific object or place is filled to capacity. The word appears in different forms in the New Testament, generally describing the state of being full or filled, either literally or figuratively.

For instance, γέμω is used in Matthew 23:27, where Jesus describes the Pharisees as “whitewashed tombs” that “outwardly appear beautiful, but within are full (γέμω) of dead people’s bones and all uncleanness.” Here, the word is employed metaphorically to illustrate the inner corruption masked by external appearances. Another example is found in Acts 5:28, where the high priest accuses the apostles of having “filled (γέμω) Jerusalem with your teaching,” indicating a comprehensive spread of their message throughout the city.

Usage in Classical Greek Literature:
In classical Greek literature, γέμω is frequently used to convey the idea of fullness or saturation, much like its usage in the New Testament. For example, in Homer’s Iliad, the term is used to describe the abundance of warriors filling the battlefield. Similarly, in Herodotus’s Histories, γέμω describes the filling of ships with goods or people. These examples illustrate the term’s versatility in describing both literal and metaphorical fullness across a range of contexts.

Summary:
The word γέμω (G1073), transliterated as gémō, is a Greek verb meaning “to be full” or “to be filled with.” It is used in various contexts in the New Testament, both literally and metaphorically, to describe a state of complete occupation or saturation. Lexicons like BDAG and Thayer’s emphasize its role in conveying fullness, whether of physical objects or abstract qualities. Classical Greek literature also employs γέμω in similar ways, showcasing its broad applicability. In biblical usage, it often carries a deeper, symbolic meaning, as seen in passages like Matthew 23:27 and Acts 5:28. Overall, γέμω is a versatile term that captures the essence of fullness in both literal and figurative senses.