ἀγρεύω – Pronunciation Guide: ah-GREY-oo-oh

Basic Definition

Strong’s G64: To hunt, catch, or take by hunting; metaphorically to catch or entrap someone in their words or actions. The word carries the imagery of a skilled hunter pursuing prey with purpose and strategy.

Word Study

• Part of Speech: Verb
• Origin: From ἄγρα (agra), meaning “hunting” or “catching”

Morphology:

• ἀγρεύω (Present Active Indicative) – I hunt/catch
• ἀγρεύσω (Future Active Indicative) – I will hunt/catch
• ἀγρεύσωσιν (Aorist Active Subjunctive) – they might catch
• ἀγρευθῆναι (Aorist Passive Infinitive) – to be caught

Word Origin & History

The term ἀγρεύω emerges from ancient Greek hunting culture, where it initially described the physical act of hunting wild game. In classical Greek literature, Xenophon uses the term extensively in his “Cynegeticus” (On Hunting), describing various hunting techniques and their strategic applications.

The word evolved beyond its literal hunting context to encompass metaphorical applications, particularly in philosophical and rhetorical contexts. Plato employs it in his dialogues to describe the pursuit of truth and the capturing of minds through argumentation.

Biblical Usage

In the New Testament, ἀγρεύω appears most notably in contexts involving attempts to trap or catch someone in their words, particularly in confrontations with the Messiah Jesus. The word choice is significant as it reveals the predatory nature of those opposing Him.

Key Passages:

• Mark 12:13 – “And they sent to Him some of the Pharisees and some of the Herodians, to catch Him in His words.”

Cultural Insights

In the Greco-Roman world, hunting was not merely a means of obtaining food but a sophisticated art form that demonstrated one’s strategic thinking and patience. The metaphorical use of hunting terminology in dialogue and debate was well-understood by ancient audiences, carrying connotations of intellectual pursuit and tactical engagement.

Theological Significance

The use of ἀγρεύω in attempts to trap Jesus reveals a profound irony – while His opponents sought to hunt Him with words, He was actually the master hunter, seeking to draw all people to Himself. This reflects the larger biblical theme of Divine pursuit, where Yahweh is portrayed as the ultimate seeker of human hearts.

The predatory nature implied in ἀγρεύω also illuminates the spiritual warfare aspect of Jesus’ ministry, highlighting how His opponents operated with calculated strategy rather than simple opposition.

Personal Application

When we encounter this word in Scripture, we’re reminded that spiritual opposition often comes through subtle and strategic means. Yet, we can take comfort in knowing that while others might seek to entrap us, we serve a God who pursues us not to harm but to redeem.

Related Words

• θηρεύω (to hunt, catch) – See G2340
• παγιδεύω (to ensnare) – See G3802
• συλλαμβάνω (to seize, catch) – See G4815

Did you Know?

• The word ἀγρεύω is still reflected in modern Greek hunting terminology
• Ancient Greek hunting manuals used this term to describe specific tactical approaches that influenced military strategy
• The word’s usage in Mark’s Gospel represents the only occurrence in the New Testament, making it a specialized term for describing strategic opposition to Jesus

Remember This

“While enemies may hunt to harm, our God pursues to save – transforming the hunter’s snare into the Shepherd’s embrace.”