Introduction

In the realm of Biblical studies, each Greek word carries a wealth of meaning that can significantly impact our understanding of the text. The word ἐκμάσσω (Strong’s G1591) is a verb that appears in the New Testament, particularly in passages that describe specific actions involving touch or wiping. Understanding this word not only deepens our interpretation of these passages but also gives us insight into the cultural and practical aspects of life in the ancient Greek world. Its usage highlights the intimate and tangible nature of certain biblical narratives, making it a valuable term for both theologians and scholars of ancient languages.

Key Information

ἐκμάσσω (ek-MAHS-so) [ἐκμάσσω]

• Etymology: Derived from the Greek prefix “ἐκ-” (ek-, meaning “out of” or “from”) and the verb “μάσσω” (mássō, meaning “to knead” or “to wipe”).
• Part of Speech: Verb
• The F.O.G Word Choice: Coming Soon

Primary Meanings

• To wipe off: This is the most direct translation, often used in contexts where someone is wiping away something like tears, sweat, or dirt.
• To wipe clean: This extends the meaning to include a thorough cleaning, emphasizing the removal of residue or impurities.
• To dry by wiping: This specific action involves using a cloth or something similar to dry something by wiping it.

Similar Words:

• ἀπομασσω (apomassō) [ap-o-MAH-so], meaning “to wipe away,” shares a similar root but often emphasizes the action of wiping off something specific, like tears or sweat, rather than a general cleaning.
• ἐκκαθαίρω (ekkathairō) [ek-kath-AI-ro], meaning “to cleanse thoroughly,” has a broader meaning, focusing more on purging or purifying something completely, rather than just wiping it clean.

Further Insights:

• Morphology: The verb ἐκμάσσω is a compound word. The prefix “ἐκ-” (ek-) intensifies the action, implying a thorough or complete wiping. The verb “μάσσω” (mássō) brings in the connotation of kneading or working something with the hands, suggesting a careful, deliberate action.
• Linguistic Features: This word often appears in the context of actions that involve care and attention, such as wiping someone’s feet or face. It underscores the intimate, hands-on nature of the task.

Lexicon Insights

BDAG: ἐκμάσσω is described as “to wipe off, to cleanse by wiping,” often in intimate or personal contexts where one person cares for another, such as the washing of feet or the wiping of tears.

Thayers: Thayer’s lexicon explains ἐκμάσσω as “to wipe away” or “to wipe off,” with an emphasis on the thoroughness of the action, particularly in settings of personal care or ritual purification.

Vines: In Vine’s Expository Dictionary, ἐκμάσσω is noted for its usage in passages where physical touch is involved, particularly in contexts of wiping or cleansing another person, highlighting its significance in rituals or acts of service.

LSJ: The Liddell-Scott-Jones lexicon includes ἐκμάσσω under “to wipe off or cleanse,” giving examples from both secular and religious texts where the verb is used to describe careful, deliberate actions.

Strongs Exhaustive Concordance: Strong’s Concordance lists ἐκμάσσω as “to wipe off,” providing examples from biblical passages where this action is part of a caring or cleansing ritual.

Scripture References:

• Luke 7:38 – “And stood at his feet behind him weeping, and began to wash his feet with tears, and did wipe (ἐκμάσσω) them with the hairs of her head, and kissed his feet, and anointed them with the ointment.”
• John 12:3 – “Then took Mary a pound of ointment of spikenard, very costly, and anointed the feet of Jesus, and wiped (ἐκμάσσω) his feet with her hair: and the house was filled with the odor of the ointment.”

Classical Usage

Summary of ἐκμάσσω (G1591: ekmássō)

The Greek verb ἐκμάσσω (G1591) plays a significant role in New Testament narratives, particularly those involving acts of care, service, or ritual cleansing. Its primary meanings include “to wipe off” or “to wipe clean,” often used in intimate settings where one person ministers to another. The word’s use in classical Greek literature further underscores its cultural significance, reflecting the importance placed on physical touch and care in both everyday life and ritual contexts. Understanding ἐκμάσσω enriches our interpretation of key biblical passages, highlighting the tenderness and devotion inherent in these acts.

Did You Know?

In the New Testament, ἐκμάσσω is most famously used in the story of the sinful woman who wiped Jesus’ feet with her hair (Luke 7:38). This act was not just one of physical cleansing, but also a profound gesture of humility and devotion, illustrating the deep emotional and spiritual significance of the word.