Brief Overview of θύω (Strong’s G2380: thyō)

Introduction

Understanding Greek words like θύω (thyō) is crucial for Biblical studies as they often carry rich meanings that reflect both cultural and religious practices of ancient times. θύω is particularly significant in the context of the New Testament because it relates to the act of sacrifice, an essential element of both Jewish and early Christian worship. Grasping the depth of this word helps in interpreting the Bible’s sacrificial language, which is key to understanding concepts of atonement, worship, and devotion in the scriptures. Beyond the Biblical context, the term is also relevant to understanding ancient Greek religious practices, where sacrifices were integral to worship and appeasement of the gods.

Key Information

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• The Greek Word: θύω (thyō) [THOO-oh]
• Etymology: Derived from the Proto-Indo-European root dheu-, meaning “to offer a sacrifice” or “to burn,” which reflects the practice of burning offerings on an altar.
• Part of Speech: Verb, primarily in the active voice.
• The F.O.G Word Choice: Coming Soon.

Primary Meanings

• To sacrifice, to offer in sacrifice.
• To slaughter for a sacrifice.
• To celebrate or keep a feast by sacrificing.

Similar Words: ἱερεύω (hiereuō) [hee-er-EH-oh], meaning “to perform sacred rites,” specifically refers to the actions of a priest or someone performing a sacred ritual, whereas θύω is more generally used for the act of sacrificing itself, regardless of who performs it.

Further Insights: θύω is a verb and does not have declension forms. However, it can be conjugated in various tenses. Here is a sample conjugation chart for θύω in the present active indicative:

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Lexicon Insights

BDAG: θύω is defined as “to sacrifice, offer a sacrifice,” especially in the context of religious rites where animals are slain and offered on an altar to God or a deity. It is frequently used in both secular Greek literature and the New Testament.

Thayers: This lexicon describes θύω as “to sacrifice” and “to slaughter,” highlighting its frequent appearance in Jewish and pagan sacrificial contexts. It also denotes the act of celebrating a festival by making a sacrifice.

Vines: Notes that θύω primarily means “to sacrifice,” and it appears in various contexts involving Jewish and pagan worship practices, particularly where animals are offered as a burnt offering.

LSJ: The Liddell-Scott-Jones Lexicon offers a broad range of meanings, including “to sacrifice, to slay,” and mentions its metaphorical usage in classical texts where it can also mean to perform a grand or selfless act.

Strong’s Exhaustive Concordance: Defines θύω as “to sacrifice, slay” and emphasizes its strong association with ancient rituals and feasts. It highlights the verb’s flexibility, being used for both pagan and Jewish sacrificial contexts.

Related Scripture References

• Acts 14:13: “Then the priest of Zeus, whose temple was just outside the city, brought oxen and garlands to the gates, and wanted to offer sacrifice (θῦσαι) with the crowds.”
• 1 Corinthians 10:20: “But I say that the things which the Gentiles sacrifice (θύουσιν), they sacrifice (θύουσιν) to demons and not to God; and I do not want you to become sharers in demons.”
• Luke 22:7: “Then came the day of Unleavened Bread on which the Passover lamb had to be sacrificed (θύεσθαι).”

Classical Usage

Summary of θύω (G2380)

The Greek verb θύω (thyō) means “to sacrifice” or “to offer a sacrifice.” It is derived from a root meaning “to burn,” reflecting the ancient practice of burning sacrifices on altars as offerings to gods. This term is central to understanding the sacrificial system described in the Bible, both in the Jewish context of temple offerings and in pagan practices mentioned in the New Testament. The word is used in a variety of contexts, emphasizing the act of offering or slaughtering for religious purposes. It also appears in classical Greek literature, highlighting its broader cultural significance in ancient rituals and ceremonies.

Did You Know?

In ancient Greek culture, the act of sacrificing (θύω) was not just a religious duty but also a communal event that brought people together. Sacrifices were often accompanied by feasting, music, and even games, serving as a means to strengthen social bonds and express gratitude or seek favor from the gods. This tradition was carried into early Christian practices, albeit with transformed meanings where spiritual sacrifice and self-offering became central themes.