Brief Overview of ἐκκαθαίρω (Strong’s G1571: ekkathairō)

Introduction

The Greek word ἐκκαθαίρω (ekkathairō) holds significant importance in both biblical studies and the broader context of ancient Greek culture. This term, often translated as “to cleanse thoroughly” or “to purge,” appears in contexts that emphasize the removal of impurities or undesirable elements. Understanding ἐκκαθαίρω is crucial for interpreting New Testament passages that deal with concepts of purification, sanctification, and the removal of sin. Additionally, the word reflects broader cultural practices and religious rituals in ancient Greece, where purification was a central theme in both religious and civic life.

Key Information

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• Greek Word: ἐκκαθαίρω (ekkathairō) [ek-kah-THAI-roh]
• Etymology: The word is derived from the prefix ἐκ- (ek), meaning “out of” or “from,” and the verb καθαίρω (kathairō), meaning “to cleanse” or “to purify.” Together, ἐκκαθαίρω literally means “to cleanse out” or “to thoroughly cleanse.”
• Part of Speech: Verb (used to describe an action of thorough cleansing or purging)
• The F.O.G Word Choice: Coming Soon

Primary Meanings

• To cleanse thoroughly: ἐκκαθαίρω is primarily used to describe the act of thoroughly cleansing or purging something, whether it be physical objects, people, or abstract concepts like sin or impurity.
• To purge: In some contexts, it can mean to purge or remove impurities, often in a ritualistic or religious sense, such as the purification of a temple or a person’s heart.

Similar Words:

• καθαίρω (kathairō) [kah-THAI-roh]: A verb meaning “to cleanse” or “to purify,” similar to ἐκκαθαίρω but without the emphasis on thoroughness.
• ἐκκαθαίρεσις (ekkathairesis) [ek-kah-THAI-reh-sis]: A related noun meaning “purification” or “cleansing,” often used in similar contexts.

Further Insights

• Morphology: As a verb, ἐκκαθαίρω is conjugated according to the standard patterns of Greek verbs. It is an important word in both active and middle voices, reflecting the act of cleansing either performed by oneself or on behalf of someone else.

Conjugation Chart (Present Active Indicative)

Lexicon Insights

• BDAG: Defines ἐκκαθαίρω as “to cleanse thoroughly” or “to purge,” especially in contexts where a complete or exhaustive cleansing is intended.
• Thayer’s: Notes that the verb is used primarily in contexts involving purification, often with a religious or moral dimension, such as cleansing from sin.
• Vine’s: Highlights the word’s use in both the New Testament and broader Greek literature to describe acts of purification, both physical and spiritual.
• LSJ: Provides examples of ἐκκαθαίρω in classical literature, noting its use in civic and religious contexts where thorough cleansing or purification was necessary.
• Strong’s Exhaustive Concordance: Identifies ἐκκαθαίρω as a verb denoting complete purification, often associated with rituals of cleansing or sanctification.

Scripture References:

• 1 Corinthians 5:7: “Cleanse out (ἐκκαθαίρω) the old leaven that you may be a new lump, as you really are unleavened. For Christ, our Passover lamb, has been sacrificed.”

Classical Usage

The word ἐκκαθαίρω was also used in classical Greek literature, particularly in contexts involving religious purification or the cleansing of civic spaces.

Summary of ἐκκαθαίρω (G1571: ekkathairō)

The Greek verb ἐκκαθαίρω (ekkathairō) is a powerful term that conveys the act of thorough cleansing or purging. It is used in both religious and secular contexts to describe the complete removal of impurities, whether they be physical, moral, or spiritual. Understanding this word deepens our comprehension of New Testament passages that emphasize the importance of purity and sanctification. Additionally, ἐκκαθαίρω reflects broader cultural practices in ancient Greece, where purification rituals played a central role in both public and private life.

This term’s usage in both classical and biblical contexts underscores the cultural and religious significance of purification, highlighting the ancient belief in the necessity of cleansing as a means of maintaining both physical and spiritual health.

Did You Know?

In ancient Greek culture, purification rituals, often described by the term ἐκκαθαίρω, were not only religious acts but also civic duties. For example, before major festivals or after significant events like battles, cities would undergo thorough cleansing rituals to remove any physical or spiritual impurities. These practices reflect the deep connection between cleanliness, health, and holiness in the ancient world.