Brief Overview of δουλαγωγέω (G1396: doulagōgéō)

• δουλαγωγέω (doulagōgéō) [doo-lah-go-GEH-oh]
• Etymology: Derived from two Greek words: δοῦλος (doulos), meaning “slave” or “servant,” and ἄγω (agō), meaning “to lead” or “to bring.” The compound form emphasizes the act of leading or bringing someone into servitude or subjection.
• Part of Speech: Verb.
• The F.O.G Word Choice: Coming Soon.

Primary Meanings

• To Bring into Subjection: The primary meaning of δουλαγωγέω (doulagōgéō) is “to bring into subjection” or “to enslave.” It involves the action of subjecting someone, whether oneself or another, to strict control or discipline.
• To Enslave or Dominate: The word can also convey the idea of domination or mastery, where one exerts control over another as a master over a slave.
• To Make a Slave of: In some contexts, δουλαγωγέω (doulagōgéō) can specifically refer to the act of enslaving someone, reducing them to the status of a servant or bondservant.

Further Insights:

• Morphological Composition: The verb δουλαγωγέω (doulagōgéō) is formed by combining δοῦλος (doulos) and ἄγω (agō). The root δοῦλος (doulos) indicates the concept of slavery or servitude, while ἄγω (agō) implies leading or bringing. Together, they emphasize the act of leading someone into a state of servitude or subjection.
• Usage in Context: The term is often used metaphorically to describe bringing one’s body or desires under control, as in the discipline of the body or mind to achieve a higher goal or maintain moral integrity.

Lexicon Insights:

• BDAG: BDAG identifies δουλαγωγέω (doulagōgéō) as a verb meaning “to treat harshly” or “to enslave,” particularly in a metaphorical sense where one controls or disciplines themselves or others. It is used to describe rigorous self-discipline or the act of bringing something under control.
• Thayer’s Lexicon: Thayer’s emphasizes the metaphorical use of δουλαγωγέω (doulagōgéō) in the New Testament, particularly in relation to self-discipline. The verb is seen as an action where an individual exercises strict control over their bodily desires or actions.
• LSJ (Liddell-Scott-Jones): LSJ notes the use of δουλαγωγέω (doulagōgéō) in both literal and metaphorical senses, including its application in classical Greek literature where it can refer to the act of subjugation or leading someone into slavery.
• Scripture References:
• 1 Corinthians 9:27: “But I discipline my body and keep it under control, lest after preaching to others I myself should be disqualified.”

Usage in Classical Greek Literature:

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• Plato, Republic: Although the exact term δουλαγωγέω (doulagōgéō) is not used, the concept of bringing desires or emotions under control aligns with discussions in Plato’s Republic where self-mastery is considered essential for justice and personal integrity.
• Aristotle, Nicomachean Ethics: Aristotle discusses the importance of self-control and the mastery of one’s desires, concepts that are metaphorically linked to the idea of enslaving one’s passions, though not using δουλαγωγέω (doulagōgéō) explicitly.
• Epictetus, Discourses: The Stoic philosopher Epictetus often speaks about the need to control one’s desires and impulses, which parallels the metaphorical use of δουλαγωγέω (doulagōgéō) as bringing oneself into submission.

Summary of δουλαγωγέω (G1396: doulagōgéō)

The Greek word δουλαγωγέω (doulagōgéō), transliterated as doulagōgéō and pronounced [doo-lah-go-GEH-oh], primarily means “to bring into subjection” or “to enslave.” It is derived from the Greek words doulos (slave) and agō (to lead), emphasizing the act of leading someone into a state of servitude or rigorous control. In the New Testament, the word is often used metaphorically, particularly in 1 Corinthians 9:27, where Paul speaks of disciplining his body to keep it under control. The concept is closely related to self-mastery and the importance of controlling one’s desires or impulses. In classical Greek literature, while the exact term is not frequently used, the idea of subjugating or controlling one’s lower instincts or desires is a recurring theme in philosophical discussions. Doulagōgéō conveys a powerful image of mastery, whether over others or oneself, and highlights the importance of discipline in both moral and spiritual contexts.