Brief Overview of ἐξορύσσω (Strong’s G1846: exorússō)

Introduction

Understanding Greek words is crucial in Biblical studies as it allows for a deeper comprehension of the texts and their cultural context. The Greek word ἐξορύσσω (exorússō) is particularly significant because it is used to describe actions related to digging or unearthing. It is relevant to New Testament interpretation, particularly in passages discussing preparation, labor, or uncovering hidden truths. Additionally, the word provides insight into ancient Greek culture, where physical labor, agriculture, and construction played essential roles.

Key Information

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• The Greek Word: ἐξορύσσω, transliterated as exorússō [ex-or-OO-soh]
• Etymology: Derived from the prefix ἐξ- (ex-, meaning “out of”) + ὀρύσσω (orússō, meaning “to dig”). It literally means “to dig out” or “to unearth.”
• Part of Speech: Verb; present active indicative, first person singular.
• The F.O.G Word Choice: Coming Soon.

Primary Meanings

• To dig out or excavate
• To unearth or bring to light by digging
• To remove or extract something from beneath the surface

Similar Words: ἐξορύσσω (exorússō) is closely related to σκάπτω (skáptō) [SKAP-toh], meaning “to dig” or “to hoe,” which generally refers to the act of digging in a broader sense. While σκάπτω can mean to dig without necessarily extracting something, ἐξορύσσω specifically emphasizes the removal or uncovering of something by digging. Another similar word is ἀνασκάπτω (anaskáptō) [an-ask-AP-toh], meaning “to dig up again” or “to exhume,” which implies digging to retrieve something that was previously buried.

Further Insights: ἐξορύσσω is a compound verb formed from the prefix ἐξ- and the verb ὀρύσσω. This construction gives it a more specific meaning than its root verb. It follows standard conjugation patterns for regular verbs in Greek. Here is the present active indicative conjugation:

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Lexicon Insights

BDAG: ἐξορύσσω is defined as “to dig out, unearth, or excavate.” BDAG notes that this word is used metaphorically to refer to revealing hidden or buried things, especially in a spiritual or moral context.

Thayers: Thayer’s lexicon describes ἐξορύσσω as “to dig out” or “to unearth,” emphasizing its use in contexts where something buried or hidden is being brought to the surface. Thayer’s notes its occasional metaphorical use in literature to describe revealing secrets or uncovering hidden truths.

Vines: In Vine’s lexicon, ἐξορύσσω is explained as a verb denoting physical excavation or digging. Vine’s highlights its use in contexts involving labor or effort to bring forth something that was previously hidden or underground.

LSJ: The Liddell-Scott-Jones lexicon provides a broader definition of ἐξορύσσω, focusing on its classical use in various texts. It includes both literal meanings, such as digging a pit or well, and metaphorical meanings like uncovering secrets or knowledge.

Strong’s Exhaustive Concordance: Strong’s Concordance defines ἐξορύσσω as “to dig out” or “excavate.” It points out its primary use in biblical passages where physical action leads to uncovering something that was previously concealed or buried.

Related Scripture References

• Matthew 6:19: “Do not lay up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust destroy and where thieves break in and steal (ἐξορύσσουσιν).”

Classical Usage

Summary of ἐξορύσσω (G1846: exorússō)

The Greek word ἐξορύσσω (Strong’s G1846), meaning “to dig out” or “excavate,” is used in contexts related to physical labor, uncovering hidden things, or preparing ground for new purposes. Its significance lies in its dual role in both literal and metaphorical uses in biblical texts, revealing the importance of effort, preparation, and revealing what is concealed. Understanding ἐξορύσσω allows readers to grasp deeper layers of meaning in Scripture and provides insights into the cultural practices of ancient Greece.

Did You Know?

The word ἐξορύσσω is also used in ancient Greek magical texts, where it referred to the act of “digging out” or uncovering hidden knowledge or treasures through rituals. This reflects the Greek belief in the power of both physical and mystical efforts to reveal hidden truths.