Introduction

In Biblical studies, the exploration of Greek words opens a window into the cultural, theological, and linguistic richness of the New Testament. The word εἰσκαλέομαι (eiskaleomai) is particularly significant due to its usage in contexts where invitation or summoning is involved, often carrying connotations of formal or authoritative calling. Understanding this term is crucial for interpreting passages that involve the concept of being invited or summoned, especially within a community or assembly. Its relevance extends to both New Testament interpretation and understanding broader ancient Greek practices where formal summoning was a common societal function.

Key Information

• Greek Word: εἰσκαλέομαι (eiskaleomai) [ice-kal-eh’-om-ahee]
• Etymology:
• The word is derived from the prefix εἰς (eis), meaning “into” or “towards,” and καλέω (kaleo), meaning “to call” or “to summon.”
• Part of Speech: Verb (Middle Voice)
• The F.O.G Word Choice: Coming Soon

Primary Meanings

• To Invite In: The primary meaning of εἰσκαλέομαι is to invite or summon someone into a particular place or gathering.
• To Call in a Formal Manner: It can also imply a formal or authoritative calling, often within the context of an assembly or official gathering.

Similar Words:

• καλέω (kaleo) [kal-eh’-o]: This word means “to call” or “to summon” more generally, without the specific directional or inviting connotation that εἰσκαλέομαι carries.
• προσκαλέομαι (proskaleomai) [pros-kal-eh’-om-ahee]: This term similarly means “to call to oneself,” but emphasizes the personal nature of the call, often indicating a closer relationship or personal intent.

Further Insights:

• Morphology:
• Middle Voice: The middle voice in Greek often indicates that the subject is both acting and affected by the action, suggesting that the one calling may also be participating in or affected by the invitation.
• Prefix Usage: The prefix εἰς (eis) adds a directional element to the verb, indicating that the invitation or calling is towards a specific place or group, adding to the formal or authoritative nuance of the term.

Lexicon Insights

BDAG:
BDAG emphasizes εἰσκαλέομαι as a term used primarily in formal or communal contexts where individuals are invited or summoned into a gathering or assembly. It highlights the directional aspect of the term, indicating a movement towards a specified place or purpose.

Thayer’s:
Thayer’s Lexicon notes that εἰσκαλέομαι carries the connotation of an official or formal invitation, often used in the context of religious or communal assemblies. The lexicon highlights the importance of the term in passages where the invitation into a community or specific gathering is central.

Vine’s:
Vine’s Expository Dictionary discusses εἰσκαλέομαι in the context of its middle voice, which underscores the participatory nature of the calling or invitation. It is often used in contexts where the inviter is also engaged in the gathering or assembly being referenced.

LSJ (Liddell-Scott-Jones):
LSJ points to the usage of εἰσκαλέομαι in classical Greek literature, where it frequently appears in contexts of formal summoning, such as calling individuals into a court or assembly. The lexicon also notes its use in ceremonial or ritual contexts.

Strong’s Exhaustive Concordance:
Strong’s identifies εἰσκαλέομαι under G1528, focusing on its usage as an invitation or formal summoning, often with a directional implication. It notes that the term is especially relevant in contexts where the movement or entrance into a specific place is highlighted.

Scripture References:

• Acts 10:23: “Then called he them in (εἰσκαλέομαι), and lodged them. And on the morrow Peter went away with them, and certain brethren from Joppa accompanied him.”
• Acts 28:17: “And it came to pass, that after three days Paul called the chief of the Jews together (εἰσκαλέομαι): and when they were come together, he said unto them…”

Classical Usage

Summary of εἰσκαλέομαι (G1528: eiskaleomai)

The Greek word εἰσκαλέομαι (eiskaleomai) is a verb used to describe the action of inviting or summoning someone into a specific place or gathering. It carries the connotation of a formal or authoritative call, often within the context of an assembly or official meeting. The term’s middle voice adds a participatory nuance, suggesting that the one doing the calling is also involved in the event or gathering. Its usage in both New Testament and classical Greek literature underscores its importance in contexts where structured, formal invitations are key. Understanding this term enriches our comprehension of passages where collective or communal actions are being described, highlighting the significance of each individual’s participation in such events.

Did You Know?

In ancient Greek culture, formal summoning to assemblies or gatherings, often using the word εἰσκαλέομαι, was not just a call to attend but also an expectation of participation and engagement. This reflected the communal and participatory nature of Greek society, where every individual’s role in public life was considered crucial.