Unveiling the Word
Understanding Greek words in Biblical studies provides a deeper insight into the cultural, social, and theological context of the New Testament. The Greek word κινδυνεύω (kindyneúō), translated as “to be in danger” or “to risk,” is particularly significant because it is associated with moments of peril and threat. This term appears in Luke 8:23, where it describes the disciples being in danger while on the Sea of Galilee during a storm. Understanding this word is essential for interpreting passages related to fear, faith, and divine intervention, as well as comprehending the broader cultural and social concepts of risk and safety in ancient Greek society.
Necessary Information
Greek Word: κινδυνεύω, transliterated as kindyneúō [kin-dy-NEH-oo].
Etymology: κινδυνεύω derives from the root word κίνδυνος (kíndynos), which means “danger” or “risk.” The verb κινδυνεύω evolves from this noun form and literally means “to be in danger” or “to face a risk.”
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Part of Speech: κινδυνεύω is a verb. It is used in various grammatical forms to express action or state. The verb is typically presented in the present, imperfect, and aorist tenses in New Testament passages, conveying ongoing, habitual, or completed actions of being in danger.
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Defining Meanings
The primary meaning of κινδυνεύω is “to be in danger” or “to face a risk.” It is used to describe situations where individuals or groups are threatened by external circumstances or internal fears.
A secondary meaning involves the idea of “risking” something or taking a chance in contexts where there is potential harm or loss. This can apply to physical danger, such as in a storm at sea, or metaphorical risk, such as spiritual danger or the risk of social rejection.
In a broader sense, κινδυνεύω can also mean “to experience peril” in a general sense, encompassing both the literal and figurative dangers faced by people in various life situations.
Exploring Similar Words
The Greek word φοβέω (phobéō) [fo-BEH-oh], meaning “to fear” or “to be afraid,” shares a conceptual relationship with κινδυνεύω. While φοβέω emphasizes the emotional response to danger (fear), κινδυνεύω focuses on the state or condition of being in danger.
Another related word is ἀπειλέω (apeiléō) [a-pei-LEH-oh], which means “to threaten.” While κινδυνεύω refers to the state of danger, ἀπειλέω implies a threat that causes that danger, thereby highlighting different aspects of peril.
Lastly, κινδυνεύω is conceptually linked with the word ἀπολλύμι (apollými) [a-pol-LOO-mee], which means “to destroy” or “to perish.” While κινδυνεύω indicates being in danger, ἀπολλύμι describes the possible outcome if that danger is not avoided or mitigated.
Reviewing the Word’s Morphology
Tense, Voice, Mood: κινδυνεύω appears in the present, imperfect, and aorist tenses, emphasizing different aspects of being in danger—whether it is an ongoing, past, or completed action. The verb is most commonly found in the active voice, although middle/passive forms can also be constructed.
Person and Number: The verb κινδυνεύω is conjugated in different persons and numbers. For example, in the present indicative active:
| Person | Singular | Plural |
|---|---|---|
| 1st Person | κινδυνεύω | κινδυνεύομεν |
| 2nd Person | κινδυνεύεις | κινδυνεύετε |
| 3rd Person | κινδυνεύει | κινδυνεύουσιν |
Aspect: In Greek, aspect conveys the type of action. κινδυνεύω is used in the imperfective (present and imperfect) and perfective (aorist) aspects to convey ongoing or completed states of danger.
For a more detailed understanding of Greek grammar, Click here for a beginners guide to reading Greek.
Studying Lexicon Insights
The word κινδυνεύω is discussed in various Greek lexicons, each highlighting its nuances and contexts of use. In the New Testament, κινδυνεύω generally implies a state of immediate danger, such as the peril faced by the disciples during a storm (Luke 8:23). In classical contexts, κινδυνεύω can describe military or personal risk, emphasizing both literal and figurative uses. The word is often connected with themes of courage, faith, and divine protection, and its theological implications involve the interplay between human vulnerability and divine sovereignty. This overview synthesizes insights from BDAG, Thayer’s, LSJ, Vine’s, Strong’s, LEH, and Moulton and Milligan.
Tracing Related Scriptures
Luke 8:23: “But as they sailed, he fell asleep: and there came down a storm of wind on the lake; and they were filled with water, and were in jeopardy [κινδυνεύω].”
Acts 19:27: “So that not only this our craft is in danger [κινδυνεύω] to be set at nought; but also that the temple of the great goddess Diana should be despised.”
1 Corinthians 15:30: “And why stand we in jeopardy [κινδυνεύω] every hour?”
Analyzing Classical Usage
| Author | Name of Work | Text Excerpt |
|---|---|---|
| Herodotus | Histories | “The men risked (κινδυνεύω) their lives to cross the dangerous waters.” |
| Thucydides | History of the Peloponnesian War | “They risked (κινδυνεύω) the battle, knowing the stakes were high.” |
| Septuagint | Esther 7:4 | “For we are sold, I and my people, to be destroyed, to be slain, and to perish (κινδυνεύω).” |
Noteworthy Summary
κινδυνεύω, meaning “to be in danger” or “to risk,” provides rich insights into the ancient Greek understanding of peril and its applications in both literal and metaphorical contexts. From Biblical passages to classical Greek literature, κινδυνεύω captures the human experience of facing danger, making it a vital word for comprehending themes of faith, courage, and divine intervention in both sacred and secular texts.
Did You Know?
κινδυνεύω is often found in military contexts in ancient Greek literature, depicting the bravery or foolhardiness of soldiers.
The concept of κινδυνεύω in the New Testament often highlights human vulnerability, which invites divine protection or intervention.
In the Septuagint, κινδυνεύω appears in narratives where characters face existential threats, adding depth to their stories of survival and faith.
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