Brief Overview of ἐκκλείω (Strong’s G1576: ekkleíō)

Introduction

In the study of Biblical Greek, each word contributes a unique perspective to our understanding of the Scriptures. The Greek verb ἐκκλείω (ekkleíō) is one such word that offers depth and insight into the themes of exclusion and separation in the New Testament. This word, though simple in structure, carries significant theological implications, particularly in the context of the early Christian community and its boundaries. Understanding ἐκκλείω is crucial for those seeking to grasp the nuances of exclusion, whether in a literal or figurative sense, within the Biblical narrative and beyond.

Key Information

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• Greek Word: ἐκκλείω (ekkleíō) [ek-KLAY-oh]
• Etymology: Derived from the prefix ἐκ- (ek), meaning “out” or “from,” combined with κλείω (kleíō), meaning “to shut” or “to close.” The verb thus conveys the action of shutting out or excluding.
• Part of Speech: Verb (indicative of an action involving exclusion or shutting out)
• The F.O.G Word Choice: Coming Soon

Primary Meanings

• To shut out: The primary meaning of ἐκκλείω is to shut out or exclude, often used in contexts where someone or something is actively kept out of a place or situation.
• To exclude: It can also imply exclusion in a more figurative sense, such as being excluded from a community or a specific privilege.

Similar Words:

• κλείω (kleíō) [KLAY-oh]: A related verb meaning “to shut” or “to close,” which forms the base of ἐκκλείω but lacks the prefix that indicates exclusion.
• ἀποκλείω (apokleíō) [ah-poh-KLAY-oh]: This word, also derived from κλείω, includes the prefix ἀπο- (apo), meaning “away from,” and similarly means “to shut out” or “to exclude.”
• ἀποχωρέω (apochōréō) [ah-poh-khoh-RAY-oh]: While not directly related, this word means “to withdraw” or “to depart,” often used when someone leaves or is excluded from a group.

Further Insights

• Morphology: As a verb, ἐκκλείω follows standard Greek conjugation patterns. It is commonly found in the active voice, emphasizing that the subject is performing the action of excluding or shutting out.

Conjugation Chart (Present Active Indicative)

Lexicon Insights

• BDAG: Defines ἐκκλείω as “to shut out,” with a focus on its metaphorical use in excluding someone from a group or a privilege, often in a religious or social context.
• Thayer’s: Emphasizes the use of ἐκκλείω in contexts where exclusion or separation is central, such as being shut out from the kingdom of heaven.
• Vine’s: Highlights the significance of ἐκκλείω in the New Testament, particularly in passages discussing exclusion from divine favor or community.
• LSJ: Lists both literal and metaphorical uses of the word in classical Greek, with a strong emphasis on physical exclusion.
• Strong’s Exhaustive Concordance: Identifies ἐκκλείω as a verb meaning “to exclude” or “to shut out,” particularly used in contexts of social or religious exclusion.

Scripture References:

• Galatians 4:17: “They zealously seek you, but for no good; yes, they want to shut you out (ἐκκλείω), that you may seek them.”
• Romans 11:7: “What then? Israel has not obtained what it seeks; but the elect have obtained it, and the rest were hardened (excluded, ἐκκλείω).”

Classical Usage

In classical Greek literature, ἐκκλείω was commonly used to describe situations where someone was physically shut out or excluded from a place or event.

Summary of ἐκκλείω (G1576: ekkleíō)

The Greek verb ἐκκλείω (ekkleíō) carries the powerful idea of shutting out or excluding, both in a literal and figurative sense. It appears in key New Testament passages that deal with themes of exclusion from community, faith, or privilege. The word also has significant roots in classical Greek literature, where it was used to describe physical exclusion from places or events. Understanding ἐκκλείω enhances our comprehension of the social and theological implications of exclusion in the New Testament, providing valuable insight into the early Christian understanding of inclusion and separation.

Did You Know?

In ancient Greek society, the act of exclusion was not just a physical reality but also a powerful social and political tool. Being ἐκκλείω from a city, council, or group often carried severe consequences, as it could mean a loss of rights, privileges, and social standing. In the New Testament, this concept is used to illustrate spiritual realities, where exclusion from the kingdom of God or community is portrayed as a serious consequence of unbelief or disobedience. Understanding this word helps us to see the full weight of what it means to be “shut out” in both ancient and modern contexts.