Brief Overview of ἀποσυνάγωγος (G656: Apostynágōgos)

1. Brief Overview:

Transliteration: Apostynágōgos

Root Words: The term ἀποσυνάγωγος is derived from the prefix ἀπό (apó), meaning “away from,” and συναγωγός (synagōgós), meaning “synagogue” or “gathering.” Thus, ἀποσυνάγωγος translates to “one who is excluded from the synagogue” or “excommunicated.”

Primary Meanings:

• Excluded or expelled from the synagogue.
• A person who has been excommunicated from the community or assembly.

2. Detailed Description:

BDAG (Bauer-Danker-Arndt-Gingrich): BDAG defines ἀποσυνάγωγος as “excluded from the synagogue,” focusing on the formal act of exclusion or excommunication from the Jewish community.

Thayer’s: Thayer’s Greek Lexicon describes ἀποσυνάγωγος as “one who is excommunicated from the synagogue,” emphasizing its use in the context of religious or social ostracism.

Vines: Vines’ Expository Dictionary clarifies that ἀποσυνάγωγος refers to someone who is “excluded from the assembly or synagogue,” highlighting its application in formal exclusion.

LSJ (Liddell-Scott-Jones): LSJ lists ἀποσυνάγωγος as “one who is excluded from the synagogue,” consistent with BDAG’s definition and focusing on the social and religious implications of exclusion.

Strong’s Exhaustive Concordance: Strong’s defines ἀποσυνάγωγος as “one who is excommunicated,” aligning with BDAG’s emphasis on the act of exclusion from the community.

3. Usage in Classic Greek Literature:

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Josephus (Jewish Antiquities, 1st century CE): Josephus references excommunication and social exclusion practices, providing historical context for the use of ἀποσυνάγωγος.

Philo of Alexandria (De Vita Mosis, 1st century BCE): Philo’s works discuss the implications of exclusion from religious and communal gatherings, relevant to understanding the term’s usage.

Plato (Republic, 4th century BCE): Plato’s dialogues include discussions on exclusion and social ostracism, offering insight into similar concepts that predate the use of ἀποσυνάγωγος.

4. Summary:

ἀποσυνάγωγος (apostynágōgos) signifies someone who is excluded from the synagogue or community, reflecting formal excommunication or ostracism. This term is used in historical and biblical contexts to describe individuals who have been socially and religiously excluded. Understanding ἀποσυνάγωγος illuminates the practices of exclusion in ancient Jewish and Greek societies.