Brief Overview of ἀστοχέω (G795: astocheō)

1. Brief Overview:

Transliteration: astocheō

Root Words: The term ἀστοχέω (astocheō) is derived from ἀ- (a-) meaning “without” or “not,” and στόχος (stochos), which means “target” or “aim.”

Primary Meanings:

• Miss the Mark: To fail to achieve or reach a target or goal.
• Err or Fall Short: To make a mistake or fail in an attempt to achieve a desired outcome.

2. Detailed Description:

BDAG: BDAG defines ἀστοχέω as “to miss the mark” or “fail to achieve a goal.” This term is used in contexts where there is a failure to reach a specific target or objective, often implying a degree of error or misjudgment.

Thayer’s: Thayer’s Greek Lexicon describes ἀστοχέω as “to miss the mark” or “fall short,” focusing on the idea of failing to reach a set goal or target.

Vines: Vines’ Expository Dictionary emphasizes that ἀστοχέω means “to miss the mark” and is used in contexts of failure to achieve a desired result or aim.

LSJ: The LSJ Lexicon defines ἀστοχέω as “to miss the mark,” noting its application in contexts where there is an error or failure to achieve a specific aim.

Strong’s Exhaustive Concordance: Strong’s lists ἀστοχέω as “to miss the mark,” describing a failure to reach a particular goal or target.

Bible Verses:

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• Luke 1:3 (KJV): “It seemed good to me also, having had perfect understanding of all things from the very first, to write unto thee in order, most excellent Theophilus.”
• While not directly using ἀστοχέω, this verse sets a context of aiming to provide an accurate account, contrasting with the idea of missing the mark.

3. Classic Greek Literature:

Usage in Classic Greek Literature:

• Homer and Hesiod do not specifically use ἀστοχέω, but their works include themes of aiming and achieving goals.
• Aristotle discusses ethics and goals but does not use the term ἀστοχέω directly. The concept of failing to achieve goals can be inferred from his discussions on virtue and ethics.
• Plato and Xenophon also address topics related to aiming and achieving objectives, providing a context for understanding the concept of missing the mark.

4. Summary:

ἀστοχέω (astocheō) means “to miss the mark” or “fall short,” referring to the failure to achieve a specific goal or target. This term conveys the idea of error or misjudgment in reaching an intended outcome. While not widely used in classic Greek literature, the concept of aiming and achieving goals is discussed in various philosophical and literary contexts, offering insight into the term’s meaning.