Brief Overview of ἀλληγορέω (G238)

The Greek verb ἀλληγορέω (allēgoréō) means “to speak allegorically” or “to interpret allegorically.” It is derived from the word ἀλληγορία (allēgoría), which refers to allegory. This term is used to describe the process of interpreting a text or statement in a figurative rather than literal sense, often to reveal deeper or hidden meanings. It implies that the language or story is symbolic and represents something beyond its apparent meaning.

Detailed Overview

1. Strong’s Concordance:

• G238 ἀλληγορέω (allēgoréō): According to Strong’s Concordance, this verb means “to speak allegorically” or “to interpret allegorically.” Strong’s indicates that it involves explaining or interpreting something in a way that goes beyond its literal sense, often to uncover a deeper or symbolic meaning.

1. Thayer’s Greek Lexicon:

• Thayer’s Lexicon defines ἀλληγορέω as “to speak in allegory” or “to interpret allegorically.” The lexicon explains that this term is used when a statement or text is not to be taken literally but rather understood through symbolic or figurative interpretation, revealing an underlying message or moral.

1. Liddell-Scott-Jones (LSJ) Greek-English Lexicon:

• The LSJ Lexicon provides the definition of ἀλληγορέω as “to speak allegorically” or “to use allegory.” It highlights that this verb is applied when a narrative or statement is presented in a symbolic manner, conveying meanings that are not immediately apparent from the literal text.

1. Brown-Driver-Briggs (BDB) Lexicon:

• Although primarily focused on Hebrew, the BDB Lexicon acknowledges the use of allegory in biblical interpretation and aligns with the understanding that ἀλληγορέω involves interpreting or explaining texts symbolically rather than literally.

In summary, ἀλληγορέω (allēgoréō) is a Greek verb that means “to speak allegorically” or “to interpret allegorically.” It involves understanding or explaining texts in a figurative manner to uncover deeper or symbolic meanings beyond the literal sense. This interpretation is supported by Strong’s Concordance, Thayer’s Lexicon, the LSJ Lexicon, and related resources, which collectively emphasize its role in symbolic or figurative interpretation.