Introduction
Understanding Greek words in Biblical studies is essential to fully grasp the meanings and nuances of the original text. The Greek word κάμνω (kamnō) is significant in this context, as it often conveys a sense of exhaustion or weariness. Studying this word helps us understand the emotional and physical states depicted in the New Testament and provides insights into ancient Greek culture, where physical and spiritual states were often intertwined.
Key Information
- The Greek Word: κάμνω, transliterated as kamnō, pronounced [KAHM-noh].
- Etymology: The root word is related to notions of toil, weariness, and fatigue, emphasizing physical or mental strain.
- Part of Speech: Verb; it follows a regular verb conjugation pattern in Greek.
- The F.O.G Word Choice: Coming Soon.
Primary Meanings
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- To be weary: Indicates physical or mental fatigue due to continuous labor or hardship.
- To suffer: Can be used in a broader sense to convey the idea of suffering from hardship or toil.
- To grow tired: Often reflects a state of being tired after prolonged effort or endurance.
Similar Words: κοπιάω (kopiao) [ko-PEE-ah-oh], meaning “to labor” or “to toil,” is similar in that it reflects the physical effort and resulting fatigue. However, κοπιάω emphasizes the labor itself more than the resulting weariness that κάμνω implies.
Further Insights: κάμνω highlights the human experience of weariness, whether physical, emotional, or spiritual. This word appears in contexts where perseverance or endurance is emphasized, making it a crucial term in understanding passages about human suffering and spiritual fortitude. The verb conjugates regularly, and understanding its forms can help interpret nuanced meanings in the text.
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Lexicon Insights
- BDAG: Defines κάμνω primarily as “to be weary,” with references to physical and mental fatigue. It discusses its metaphorical usage in terms of spiritual or emotional weariness.
- Thayers: Focuses on the sense of weariness and fatigue, especially after sustained effort or struggle.
- Vines: Provides detailed usage of κάμνω in different contexts, both secular and biblical, highlighting its emphasis on physical and emotional exhaustion.
- LSJ: Offers classical examples where κάμνω is used to denote exhaustion from war, labor, or other forms of strenuous activity.
- Strong’s Exhaustive Concordance: Lists occurrences and cross-references of κάμνω in Greek literature, emphasizing its use in contexts of perseverance and suffering.
Related Scripture References
- Hebrews 12:3: “For consider Him who has endured such hostility by sinners against Himself, so that you will not grow weary [κάμνω] and lose heart.”
- James 5:15: “And the prayer of faith will save the sick, and the Lord will raise him up. And if he has committed sins, he will be forgiven.” (κάμνω is translated as “sick” in this context, implying a state of weariness or exhaustion).
Classical Usage
| Author | Name of Work | English text with Greek word |
|---|---|---|
| Homer | Iliad | “And he, wearied (κάμνω) by battle, sought rest.” |
| Sophocles | Oedipus at Colonus | “The elder, weary (κάμνω) in his years, sought solace.” |
| Septuagint | Psalm 6:6 | “I am weary (κάμνω) with my groaning; all night I make my bed swim.” |
Summary of κάμνω (G2577)
The Greek word κάμνω (kamnō) is a verb meaning “to be weary” or “to suffer from exhaustion.” It is significant in understanding biblical passages that discuss endurance, perseverance, and spiritual fatigue. In classical literature, the term is used to denote physical and emotional weariness, highlighting human suffering and the need for rest and recovery. Understanding κάμνω enhances comprehension of biblical themes involving perseverance and spiritual endurance.
Did You Know?
- κάμνω is often associated with enduring hardships and is used to encourage perseverance in the face of adversity.
- The word appears in contexts where both physical and emotional exhaustion are implied, making it a powerful term for expressing deep fatigue.
- In classical Greek literature, κάμνω is often linked to soldiers weary from battle or individuals tired from long journeys.
By exploring the depth of the word κάμνω, readers gain a richer understanding of the biblical text and the emotional and physical struggles depicted therein.
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