Brief Overview of ἐμπλέκω (Strong’s G1707: emplekō)

Introduction

Understanding the original Greek words used in the New Testament is essential for accurately interpreting the scriptures and grasping the depth of their meaning. The Greek verb ἐμπλέκω (emplekō) is one such word that carries significant weight, particularly in its metaphorical uses. This verb, which literally means “to entwine” or “to entangle,” is used in contexts that convey both physical and metaphorical entanglement, often with implications for moral or spiritual life. Its occurrences in the New Testament offer a rich field of study for those interested in the intersection of language, culture, and theology.

Key Information

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• Greek Word: ἐμπλέκω (emplekō) [em-PLEH-koh]
• Etymology: The word is composed of the prefix ἐν (en), meaning “in,” and the verb πλέκω (plekō), meaning “to weave” or “to braid.” Together, they form ἐμπλέκω, which literally means “to weave in” or “to entangle.”
• Part of Speech: Verb (Present Active Indicative).
• The F.O.G Word Choice: Coming Soon

Primary Meanings

• To entangle: This primary meaning refers to the literal action of getting something entangled or entwined, such as in a net or with another object.
• To be involved in or occupied with: Metaphorically, it can describe someone becoming entangled in worldly affairs or difficulties, which might distract from a higher purpose, such as spiritual pursuits.

Similar Words:

• πλέκω (plekō) [PLEH-koh]: This is the root verb meaning “to weave” or “to braid.” While it shares the idea of intertwining, it doesn’t carry the same metaphorical sense of becoming ensnared or entangled as ἐμπλέκω does.
• συμπλέκω (sumplekō) [sum-PLEH-koh]: Meaning “to intertwine” or “to interweave,” this verb is similar but often used in contexts where two things are intricately woven together rather than the sense of being ensnared or caught up.

Further Insights:

• Morphology: The prefix ἐν (en) enhances the base verb πλέκω (plekō), adding a nuance of being caught or involved within something, which is essential to understanding the figurative uses of ἐμπλέκω in the New Testament.
• Linguistic Features: This verb is typically used in a metaphorical sense in the New Testament, often to describe the dangers of becoming entangled in worldly affairs or distractions that can lead one away from spiritual duties.

Lexicon Insights

BDAG:
BDAG defines ἐμπλέκω as “to be entangled,” particularly in the sense of being caught up or ensnared in something, often with negative connotations, such as being drawn away from one’s duties.

Thayer’s:
Thayer’s lexicon notes that ἐμπλέκω is used primarily in the metaphorical sense of becoming entangled in affairs or concerns that can impede one’s spiritual progress or focus.

Vine’s:
Vine’s Expository Dictionary highlights the use of ἐμπλέκω in the New Testament as a warning against becoming involved in civilian affairs, particularly for those who are called to a higher spiritual purpose, such as soldiers in the service of Christ.

LSJ:
The Liddell-Scott-Jones lexicon describes ἐμπλέκω in its classical usage as involving physical entanglement, such as getting caught in a net or similar trap, but also notes its metaphorical use in philosophical contexts.

Strong’s Exhaustive Concordance:
Strong’s Concordance provides a straightforward definition of ἐμπλέκω as “to entangle,” with an emphasis on its metaphorical use in the New Testament to describe distractions that can hinder spiritual responsibilities.

Scripture References

• 2 Timothy 2:4 – “No soldier gets entangled (ἐμπλεκόμενος) in civilian pursuits, since his aim is to please the one who enlisted him.”
• 2 Peter 2:20 – “For if, after they have escaped the defilements of the world through the knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ, they are again entangled (ἐμπλακέντες) in them and overcome, the last state has become worse for them than the first.”

Classical Usage

Summary of ἐμπλέκω (G1707: emplekō)

The Greek verb ἐμπλέκω (emplekō) holds significant metaphorical power in the New Testament, often warning against the dangers of becoming entangled in worldly distractions. It emphasizes the importance of maintaining focus on spiritual duties and avoiding the snares that can lead one away from their purpose. Whether describing physical entanglement or metaphorical involvement in life’s distractions, ἐμπλέκω serves as a vivid reminder of the need for vigilance in spiritual matters.

Did You Know?

In ancient Greek literature, ἐμπλέκω was often used to describe the physical entanglement of warriors in battle, such as getting caught in nets or traps. This background adds a layer of meaning to its New Testament usage, where it serves as a powerful metaphor for spiritual entanglement in the affairs of the world.