Brief Overview of ἐκλαλέω (Strong’s G1583: eklaléō)

Introduction

The study of Greek words in the Bible opens up layers of meaning that are often lost in translation. Each word carries with it not just a definition but a history, cultural context, and a variety of connotations that enrich our understanding of the Biblical text. The Greek verb ἐκλαλέω (eklaléō) is one such term, holding a particular significance in the New Testament for its usage in describing the act of speaking out or declaring something openly. By examining this word, we gain insight into how early Christians and other ancient Greek speakers understood the concept of open communication and proclamation.

Key Information

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Greek Word: ἐκλαλέω (eklaléō) [ek-lah-LEH-oh]
Etymology: Derived from the prefix ἐκ (ek), meaning “out of,” and the verb λαλέω (laléō), meaning “to speak” or “to utter.”
Part of Speech: Verb (First Conjugation)
The F.O.G Word Choice: Coming Soon

Primary Meanings

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To Speak Out: The most direct meaning of ἐκλαλέω is “to speak out,” indicating a verbal expression that is made openly and publicly.
To Declare: It can also mean “to declare,” emphasizing the formal and intentional nature of the speech.
To Proclaim: Often used in contexts where the speaker is making a proclamation or announcement to a wider audience.

Similar Words:

λαλέω (laléō) [lah-LEH-oh]: A related verb that simply means “to speak” or “to utter,” but without the added connotation of speaking out or proclaiming openly.
κηρύσσω (kērússō) [kay-ROOS-so]: Another related verb that means “to proclaim” or “to preach,” often used in the context of heralding a message.

Further Insights

Morphology: ἐκλαλέω is a verb in the present tense, indicating an ongoing action. Its usage in the New Testament often reflects an immediate or continuous act of speaking or proclaiming.
Notable Linguistic Features: The prefix ἐκ- (ek-) gives the word a sense of “outward” action, intensifying the verb λαλέω to imply not just speaking, but speaking out, as if to make something known clearly and publicly.

Verb Conjugation Chart (Present Indicative Active)

Person	Singular	Plural	Example Translation
1st	ἐκλαλέω	ἐκλαλοῦμεν	“I speak out” / “We speak out”
2nd	ἐκλαλεῖς	ἐκλαλεῖτε	“You speak out” / “You all speak out”
3rd	ἐκλαλεῖ	ἐκλαλοῦσιν	“He/She/It speaks out” / “They speak out”

Lexicon Insights

BDAG: The BDAG lexicon notes that ἐκλαλέω is used primarily in contexts that involve public speaking, particularly when the speaker is making an open declaration or testimony.
Thayer’s: Thayer’s lexicon highlights its usage in the New Testament, particularly in the context of preaching or proclaiming the Gospel message.
Vine’s: Vine’s Expository Dictionary emphasizes the word’s connotation of boldness and openness in communication, often in contrast to more private or reserved speech.
LSJ: The Liddell-Scott-Jones lexicon provides examples from classical Greek literature where ἐκλαλέω is used to describe both formal declarations and casual utterances that are made publicly.
Strong’s Exhaustive Concordance: Strong’s underscores the primary meaning of “to speak out” or “to declare,” with an emphasis on the verb’s usage in contexts of open and public communication.

Scripture References:

Matthew 10:27: “What I tell you in the dark, speak (ἐκλαλέω) in the daylight; what is whispered in your ear, proclaim from the roofs.”
Luke 12:3: “What you have said in the dark will be heard in the daylight, and what you have whispered in the ear in the inner rooms will be proclaimed (ἐκλαλέω) from the roofs.”

Classical Usage

In classical Greek literature, ἐκλαλέω was used to describe various forms of public speaking, from formal proclamations to casual conversations made in public settings.

Author	Work	Text
Plato	“Apology”	“Socrates spoke (ἐκλαλέω) openly about the injustice he perceived.”
Herodotus	“Histories”	“The general declared (ἐκλαλέω) the terms of surrender to the defeated.”
Aristophanes	“The Clouds”	“The philosopher speaks out (ἐκλαλέω) against the sophists.”

Summary of ἐκλαλέω (G1583: eklaléō)

The Greek verb ἐκλαλέω (eklaléō) is a significant term in both Biblical and classical Greek, capturing the essence of public speaking and proclamation. Whether used in the context of preaching, making formal declarations, or simply speaking out, this verb emphasizes the act of communication that is intended to be heard by others. Understanding ἐκλαλέω enriches our interpretation of key New Testament passages and provides a deeper appreciation of how early Christians viewed the power of speech and testimony.

Did You Know?

In ancient Greek rhetoric, the act of ἐκλαλέω was highly valued as it embodied the principle of parrhesia, or frank and open speech, which was considered an essential quality of a free citizen in a democratic society. This highlights the cultural importance of speaking out, not just in religious contexts, but also in the broader sphere of public life.