Brief Overview of καλέω (Strong’s G2564: kaleō)

Introduction

In Biblical studies, understanding Greek words like καλέω (kaleō) is crucial for interpreting scriptural meanings and grasping the cultural and linguistic nuances of the ancient world. The verb καλέω is a common word in the New Testament and classical Greek literature, where it is often used to denote calling, naming, or summoning. This term plays a significant role in understanding divine callings, human responses, and the naming of people and places within scriptural and historical contexts.

Key Information

• The Greek Word: καλέω, transliterated as kaleō, pronounced [ka-LEH-oh].
• Etymology: Derived from the Proto-Indo-European root kele- meaning “to call, shout.”
• Part of Speech: Verb; primarily used in the present, future, and aorist tenses in the Greek New Testament.
• The F.O.G Word Choice: Coming Soon.

Primary Meanings

• To call: Used in both literal and metaphorical senses, such as calling someone by name or calling them to a specific task.
• To summon: Refers to bringing someone into an event or into the presence of another, often in a formal sense.
• To invite: As in inviting someone to a feast or event, conveying a sense of welcome.
• To name: Used when assigning a name to someone or something.

Similar Words: προσκαλέομαι (proskaleomai) [pros-ka-LEH-oh-my] means “to call to oneself,” often used in contexts of discipleship or invitation. While καλέω can stand alone, προσκαλέομαι emphasizes a more personal or direct calling.

Further Insights: καλέω is a versatile verb that appears in various forms depending on tense and mood. Below is a basic chart showing the present active indicative declension:

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Lexicon Insights

• BDAG: Emphasizes καλέω as meaning “to call” or “to summon,” with implications of invitation and divine calling.
• Thayers: Lists various meanings including “to call by name,” “to invite,” and “to summon,” with notes on its usage in both a religious and secular context.
• Vines: Focuses on the term’s use in the context of divine calling and naming, particularly in relation to the people of God.
• LSJ: Provides examples from classical literature where καλέω is used in contexts of summoning, inviting, and calling by name.
• Strong’s Exhaustive Concordance: Highlights instances of καλέω used in the New Testament to describe both literal and figurative callings.

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Related Scripture References

• Matthew 22:3: “And he sent out his slaves to call [καλέω] those who had been invited to the wedding feast, and they were unwilling to come.”
• Romans 8:30: “And those whom He predestined, He also called [καλέω]; and those whom He called, He also justified; and those whom He justified, He also glorified.”
• Acts 2:39: “For the promise is for you and your children and for all who are far off, as many as the Lord our God will call [καλέω] to Himself.”

Classical Usage

Summary of καλέω (G2564)

The Greek verb καλέω is essential for understanding New Testament theology and the socio-cultural practices of naming, inviting, and summoning in ancient Greek culture. Its usage spans both literal contexts, like calling someone by name, and theological contexts, such as God’s call to believers. Understanding καλέω enriches our interpretation of the Bible and classical Greek texts, providing insight into divine communication, human response, and social interactions.

Did You Know?

• καλέω is often used in contexts where God “calls” individuals to serve specific purposes, reflecting a divine summons.
• In the ancient world, καλέω was also used in legal contexts to “summon” someone to court.
• The modern Greek word “καλώ” (kaló) still means “to call” or “to invite,” showing continuity in language use.