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Introduction
Understanding Greek words is fundamental to deepening one’s knowledge of Biblical studies. The Greek word ἐξελέγχω (exelencho) is particularly significant as it appears in contexts that involve reproof, correction, and exposing faults. This word sheds light on how early Christians and ancient Greek thinkers approached the concepts of truth, justice, and moral integrity. It plays a crucial role in both New Testament interpretation and in grasping broader cultural values in ancient Greek literature.
Key Information
- The Greek Word: ἐξελέγχω, transliterated as exelencho [ex-el-ENG-kho]
- Etymology: Derived from the prefix ἐκ (ek, “out of”) and the verb ἐλέγχω (elencho, “to rebuke, expose, or convict”), emphasizing the idea of bringing something to light or exposing it for correction.
- Part of Speech: Verb (used in various tenses, primarily in the present and aorist forms).
- The F.O.G Word Choice: Coming Soon.
Primary Meanings
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- To expose or bring to light.
- To convict or prove wrong.
- To rebuke or reprove, especially in a moral or judicial context.
Similar Words: ἐλέγχω (elencho) [el-ENG-kho] – While ἐλέγχω and ἐξελέγχω both convey the idea of rebuking or exposing, ἐξελέγχω intensifies this meaning by adding the prefix ἐκ, which implies a thorough or complete exposure or bringing out of something hidden.
Further Insights: The verb ἐξελέγχω emphasizes a thorough process of examination and exposure. It is used in contexts where something hidden, such as a fault or sin, is brought to light for correction or rebuke. The word often appears in moral, judicial, or spiritual settings, underlining its importance in discussions about truth and integrity.
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Lexicon Insights
BDAG: ἐξελέγχω is defined as “to expose” or “to bring to light,” especially in moral or judicial contexts. It can also mean “to convict” or “to reprove,” focusing on the thoroughness of the exposure.
Thayers: Highlights the word’s use in the New Testament to mean “to expose” or “to convict.” It is often used when referring to the exposure of wrongdoing or error, emphasizing the process of revealing something hidden or concealed.
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Vines: Discusses ἐξελέγχω primarily in terms of its use to “reprove” or “convict.” It carries the idea of bringing something to light that needs correction, particularly in moral or ethical contexts.
LSJ: In classical Greek, ἐξελέγχω means “to expose,” “to refute,” or “to prove wrong.” It appears frequently in works discussing legal or ethical matters, highlighting its function as a tool for uncovering or correcting falsehoods or misdeeds.
Strong’s Exhaustive Concordance: Lists ἐξελέγχω as “to convict” or “to refute,” with a strong focus on its usage in contexts where exposing truth and error is necessary.
Related Scripture References
- Ephesians 5:13: “But everything exposed [ἐξελέγχω] by the light becomes visible—and everything that is illuminated becomes a light.”
- 1 Timothy 5:20: “But those elders who are sinning you are to reprove [ἐξελέγχω] before everyone, so that the others may take warning.”
- Titus 1:9: “He must hold firmly to the trustworthy message as it has been taught, so that he can encourage others by sound doctrine and refute [ἐξελέγχω] those who oppose it.”
Classical Usage
| Author | Name of Work | English Text |
|---|---|---|
| Plato | Gorgias | “He who wishes to correct the soul must be able to expose (ἐξελέγχω) the faults and wrongdoings.” |
| Aristophanes | The Clouds | “He brings forth the hidden lies and exposes (ἐξελέγχω) them for all to see.” |
| Demosthenes | Against Leptines | “In court, the evidence must fully expose (ἐξελέγχω) the crime committed.” |
Summary of ἐξελέγχω (G1827: exelencho)
The Greek word ἐξελέγχω (Strong’s G1827) is a verb that means “to expose,” “to convict,” or “to refute.” It is used in the New Testament to describe the process of bringing to light hidden sins or errors, often for correction or reproof. This word is frequently employed in ethical and judicial contexts, both in the Bible and in classical Greek literature, underscoring its significance in discussions about morality, justice, and integrity.
Did You Know?
The verb ἐξελέγχω has a rich tradition in both biblical and classical Greek literature. It was not only used by New Testament authors to describe the spiritual act of exposing sin but also by philosophers like Plato to discuss the importance of exposing falsehoods and wrongdoing for the sake of truth and justice. This dual application in spiritual and philosophical texts highlights its profound role in shaping moral thought in ancient cultures.
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