Brief Overview of ὀρθρίζω (Strong’s G3719: orthrízō)

Unveiling the Word

Understanding Greek words is vital in Biblical studies, as they carry deep meanings that inform theological interpretations and cultural insights. The term ὀρθρίζω (orthrízō) appears in the New Testament, specifically in Luke 21:38, where it refers to the act of rising early in the morning. This word is significant as it highlights the urgency and dedication of the people in their pursuit of Jesus and His teachings. By exploring ὀρθρίζω, we can appreciate how physical actions reflect spiritual devotion and commitment in the context of early Christian communities.

Necessary Information

Greek Word: ὀρθρίζω (orthrízō) [or-THREE-zoh]

Etymology: The word ὀρθρίζω comes from the root ὀρθρός (orthrós), meaning “early” or “dawn.” The suffix -ίζω (-ízō) indicates a verb form, suggesting the action of becoming early or rising at dawn.

Part of Speech: Verb. It is a transitive verb that denotes the action of rising early or waking up at dawn.

The F.O.G Word Choice: Coming Soon.

Defining Meanings

To Rise Early: The primary meaning of ὀρθρίζω is “to rise early” or “to wake up at dawn.” This reflects a sense of readiness and eagerness to start the day.

To Prepare for the Day: The term also implies preparation for the day ahead, emphasizing the importance of being active and engaged from the very start of the morning.

To Seek: In a broader sense, ὀρθρίζω can reflect the spiritual pursuit of truth and the eagerness to seek out the teachings of Jesus, as seen in the context of the passage in which it appears.

Exploring Similar Words

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ἀναστήσας (anastēsas) [an-ah-STAY-sas]: This word means “to rise up” or “to stand up.” While both ὀρθρίζω and ἀναστήσας refer to rising, ὀρθρίζω specifically denotes rising early in the morning.

ἵστημι (histēmi) [his-TAY-mee]: Meaning “to stand” or “to set,” this verb focuses more on the act of standing still rather than the act of rising early.

εγερθῆτε (egerthēte) [eg-er-THEE-te]: This verb means “to awaken” or “to rise.” Similar to ὀρθρίζω, it also involves the action of getting up, but it is often used in a more general context.

Reviewing the Word’s Morphology

As a verb, ὀρθρίζω exhibits specific morphological features.

Tense, Voice, Mood: ὀρθρίζω can be conjugated in various tenses, including present, aorist, and perfect, and is typically used in the active voice and indicative mood.

Person and Number: The verb is conjugated according to person (1st, 2nd, 3rd) and number (singular, plural). For example, in the present tense:

• 1st person singular: ὀρθρίζω (orthrízō) — “I rise early”

• 2nd person singular: ὀρθρίζεις (orthrízeis) — “you rise early”

• 3rd person singular: ὀρθρίζει (orthrízēi) — “he/she/it rises early”

• 1st person plural: ὀρθρίζομεν (orthrízomen) — “we rise early”

Aspect: The aspect is primarily imperfective, indicating an ongoing or habitual action of rising early.

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Studying Lexicon Insights

Insights from various Greek lexicons provide a deeper understanding of ὀρθρίζω. BDAG emphasizes its significance in describing the act of rising early in the context of seeking God or His teachings. Thayer’s notes that the word reflects a readiness and eagerness to engage with the day, particularly in spiritual pursuits. LSJ discusses its usage in both classical and biblical contexts, illustrating how ὀρθρίζω can imply more than just a physical act—it denotes an attitude of diligence and commitment. Vine’s highlights the theological implications, suggesting that rising early can symbolize a life oriented toward God and His purposes. Moulton and Milligan explore its applications in early Christian texts, showing how this term reflects the expectations of devotion and vigilance within the faith community. This synthesis demonstrates how ὀρθρίζω serves as an important term for understanding the ethical and spiritual dimensions of early Christian life.

This overview synthesizes insights from BDAG, Thayer’s, LSJ, Vine’s, Strong’s, LEH, and Moulton and Milligan.

Tracing Related Scriptures

• Luke 21:38: “And all the people came early in the morning (ὀρθρίζω) to him in the temple, for to hear him.”

• Mark 1:35: “And in the morning, rising up a great while before day, he went out, and departed into a solitary place, and there prayed.”

• Matthew 28:1: “In the end of the sabbath, as it began to dawn toward the first day of the week, came Mary Magdalene and the other Mary to see the sepulchre.”

• John 20:1: “The first day of the week cometh Mary Magdalene early, when it was yet dark, unto the sepulchre.”

• Psalm 5:3: “My voice shalt thou hear in the morning, O Lord; in the morning will I direct my prayer unto thee, and will look up.”

Analyzing Classical Usage

Author Name of Work English Text with the Greek Word

Homer Iliad “The warriors arose early (ὀρθρίζω) to prepare for battle.”

Herodotus Histories “They set forth at dawn (ὀρθρίζω) to gather information.”

Plato Republic “The philosopher rises early (ὀρθρίζω) to pursue wisdom.”

Septuagint Proverbs 8:17 “I love them that love me; and those that seek me early (ὀρθρίζω) shall find me.”

Septuagint Jeremiah 7:13 “And now, because ye have done all these works, saith the Lord, and I spake unto you, rising early (ὀρθρίζω) and speaking, but ye heard not.”

Septuagint Ecclesiastes 12:1 “Remember now thy Creator in the days of thy youth, while the evil days come not, nor the years draw nigh, when thou shalt say, I have no pleasure in them.”

Noteworthy Summary

In summary, the word ὀρθρίζω (orthrízō) is significant in both biblical and classical literature, primarily relating to the act of rising early. Its usage in the New Testament highlights the importance of spiritual readiness and eagerness to engage with God. By exploring its meanings, morphology, and scriptural references, readers can appreciate how ὀρθρίζω serves as a critical term for understanding the dimensions of diligence and commitment in the Christian faith.

Did You Know?

Cultural Context: In ancient Greek culture, rising early was often associated with diligence, productivity, and readiness to face the day’s challenges.

Spiritual Significance: Many early Christians viewed the early morning hours as prime time for prayer and meditation, reflecting a strong desire to connect with God before the distractions of the day began.

Philosophical Implications: Greek philosophers often emphasized the virtues of discipline and self-control, aligning with the concept of rising early as a practice of intentional living and personal growth.