G3791

Unveiling the Word

The Greek verb ὀχλέω (ochleo) primarily means “to crowd” or “to throng,” referring to a large number of people gathering together. This word derives from the root ochlos, meaning “crowd” or “multitude,” and it reflects both the physical presence of a group and the social dynamics involved. In biblical texts, particularly in the context of the New Testament, this word often conveys the idea of a gathering that can be both positive and negative. For example, in Luke 6:18, it describes a large assembly of people seeking healing and teaching from Jesus, illustrating the power of his ministry and the urgent needs of the people.

Necessary Information

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Greek Word: ὀχλέω (ochleo), pronounced [okh-LEH-oh].

Etymology: The word originates from the noun ochlos (ὄχλος), which signifies a crowd or multitude. This root carries connotations of disorganization, urgency, and sometimes chaos, reflecting the social interactions of large groups.

Part of Speech: Verb; it is typically used in the present tense and can be conjugated in various forms to express different grammatical moods.

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

Defining Meanings

Primary Meaning: To crowd or to throng, indicating a physical gathering of people in close proximity.

Secondary Meaning: To cause a disturbance or a commotion, as crowds can create noise and agitation, reflecting the emotional and social dynamics within a group.

Tertiary Meaning: To accompany or follow in a multitude, suggesting the collective aspect of people moving together, often with a shared purpose or interest.

Exploring Similar Words

συναγωγή (synagoge) [soon-ah-GOH-eh]: This term refers to a gathering or assembly, specifically in a religious context. While it also denotes a collection of people, it emphasizes the purpose of gathering, often for worship or instruction, unlike ὀχλέω, which focuses on the act of crowding.

ὄχλος (ochlos) [OKH-los]: The noun form referring to a crowd or multitude. While ὀχλέω is the action of crowding, ὄχλος denotes the group itself, making them closely related but distinct in their grammatical usage.

συμπληρῶ (symplero) [sym-pleh-ROH]: Meaning “to fill up” or “to complete,” this verb indicates the action of filling a space, which can also apply to crowds but emphasizes the aspect of completion rather than merely gathering.

Reviewing the Word’s Morphology

For Verbs:

• Tense, Voice, Mood: ὀχλέω can appear in different tenses, primarily the present and aorist, with an active voice. It expresses actions in the indicative mood, demonstrating ongoing or completed actions.

• Person and Number: The verb is conjugated to reflect different persons (1st, 2nd, 3rd) and can be used in singular or plural forms. For example:

• 1st person singular: ὀχλῶ (I crowd)

• 3rd person plural: ὀχλοῦσι (they crowd)

• Aspect: The verb typically exhibits a perfective aspect when expressing a completed action or an imperfective aspect when indicating ongoing action.

Studying Lexicon Insights

The term ὀχλέω is discussed in various Greek lexicons, where it is noted for its context within the New Testament, particularly relating to the gatherings of people around Jesus. It encapsulates not only the physical act of crowding but also the emotional undercurrents of need and desire for healing, teaching, and interaction with the divine. Its theological implications are significant, as the presence of large crowds around Jesus often leads to moments of teaching, miracles, and confrontations with religious authorities.

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

Tracing Related Scriptures

Luke 6:18: “And they came to hear him and to be healed of their diseases; and those who were troubled with unclean spirits were cured, and the whole multitude [ὄχλος] sought to touch him.”

Mark 5:24: “And Jesus went with him, and a great multitude [ὄχλος] followed him and thronged him.”

Matthew 14:14: “And when Jesus went out, he saw a great multitude [ὄχλος]; and he was moved with compassion for them, and healed their sick.”

Analyzing Classical Usage

In classical Greek literature, the term ὀχλέω can often be found in descriptions of events involving large gatherings, illustrating the chaos or energy that such crowds can bring.

Example 1: Herodotus, Histories: “The multitude [ὄχλος] surged forward, eager to hear the words of the oracle.”

Example 2: Plato, The Republic: “In a crowd [ὄχλος], the voices rose and fell like the tide, a testament to the emotions of the people.”

Example 3: Xenophon, Anabasis: “The soldiers moved as one crowd [ὄχλος], their spirits lifted by the shared purpose of their journey.”

Septuagint Example 1: Exodus 12:37: “And the children of Israel journeyed from Rameses to Succoth, about six hundred thousand on foot [ὄχλος], besides children.”

Septuagint Example 2: Isaiah 19:18: “In that day five cities in the land of Egypt will speak the language of Canaan and swear allegiance to the LORD of hosts. One of these will be called the City of Destruction [ὄχλος].”

Septuagint Example 3: Jeremiah 20:10: “For I heard the whispering of many, ‘Terror is on every side! Denounce him! Let us denounce him!’ All my friends are watching for my fall. ‘Perhaps he will be deceived; then we can overcome him and take our revenge on him.’ [ὄχλος].”

Noteworthy Summary

The term ὀχλέω is a vibrant and multifaceted verb that captures the essence of gathering in large groups, particularly in the context of biblical narratives. Its use illustrates the dynamic interaction between Jesus and the people, highlighting the urgency and intensity of their needs.

Did You Know?

1. In ancient Greek culture, large gatherings were often associated with significant events such as festivals, political assemblies, or religious ceremonies.

2. The term has a dual meaning, reflecting both the physical aspect of crowding and the emotional weight of such gatherings, often leading to communal experiences.

3. ὀχλέω not only appears in the New Testament but also in classical literature, underscoring its relevance in various contexts.

Strong’s G3791: ὀχλέω (ochleo) conveys the act of crowding or thronging, highlighting the social dynamics and emotional interactions inherent in large gatherings in biblical contexts.