Introduction

Understanding Greek words in Biblical studies is crucial for grasping the full depth and nuance of the Scriptures. The word ἐκπλήσσω (ekplḗssō) is particularly significant because it conveys the powerful reactions of astonishment or amazement, often in the context of witnessing something extraordinary or divine. This term plays an important role in New Testament interpretation, where it is used to describe the reactions of people who encounter the miraculous works of Jesus and the apostles. Additionally, ἐκπλήσσω provides insight into ancient Greek culture, where expressions of awe and wonder were deeply intertwined with religious and philosophical experiences.

Key Information

• Greek Word: ἐκπλήσσω (ekplḗssō) [ek-PLAY-so]
• Etymology: Derived from the preposition ἐκ (ek), meaning “out of,” and the verb πλήσσω (plḗssō), meaning “to strike.” Thus, ἐκπλήσσω literally means “to strike out,” which metaphorically conveys the idea of being struck with amazement or astonishment.
• Part of Speech: Verb (Present Active Indicative)
• The F.O.G Word Choice: Coming Soon

Primary Meanings

• To astonish
• To amaze
• To strike with wonder
• To be overwhelmed with shock or surprise

Similar Words: The word θαυμάζω (thaumázō) is related, meaning “to marvel” or “to wonder.” While θαυμάζω generally conveys a sense of admiration or awe, ἐκπλήσσω carries a stronger connotation of being deeply struck or overwhelmed by what is observed, often leading to a more intense reaction.

Further Insights:

• Morphology: ἐκπλήσσω is a verb in the present active indicative form. The verb combines the prefix ἐκ- (ek-), meaning “out of,” with the root πλήσσω (plḗssō), which means “to strike.” This composition emphasizes a sudden and impactful action, akin to being struck with a strong emotion like awe or amazement.
• Grammatical Features: The verb can appear in various tenses and voices, depending on the context. Here is a brief overview of its conjugation in the present active indicative:

Lexicon Insights

• BDAG: ἐκπλήσσω is described as “to cause someone to be filled with amazement to the point of being overwhelmed.” It highlights the intensity of the reaction caused by witnessing something miraculous or unexpected.
• Thayers: This lexicon defines ἐκπλήσσω as “to be struck with amazement, astonished, or shocked,” particularly in the context of encountering divine power or authority.
• Vines: In Vines’ Expository Dictionary, ἐκπλήσσω is noted for its usage in describing the overwhelming awe experienced by those who witness the acts of Jesus and the apostles.
• LSJ: The term is linked to both physical and emotional reactions of astonishment, often used in classical literature to describe reactions to extraordinary events or persons.
• Strongs Exhaustive Concordance: Defines ἐκπλήσσω simply as “to strike with astonishment,” emphasizing the sudden and profound impact of the experience.

Scripture References

• Matthew 7:28 – “And when Jesus finished these sayings, the crowds were astonished (ἐκπλήσσω) at his teaching.”
• Mark 6:2 – “And on the Sabbath he began to teach in the synagogue, and many who heard him were astonished (ἐκπλήσσω), saying, ‘Where did this man get these things?’”
• Acts 13:12 – “Then the proconsul believed, when he saw what had occurred, for he was astonished (ἐκπλήσσω) at the teaching of the Lord.”

Classical Usage

Summary of ἐκπλήσσω (G1605: ekplḗssō)

The Greek word ἐκπλήσσω (ekplḗssō) is a powerful verb that conveys a deep sense of astonishment or amazement, often in reaction to witnessing something extraordinary. Its usage in the New Testament typically describes the reactions of people who encounter the miraculous works of Jesus or the apostles, highlighting the profound impact these events had on those who witnessed them. The term also has a rich history in classical Greek literature, where it was used to describe the reactions to extraordinary events or persons. Understanding ἐκπλήσσω enhances our appreciation of the emotional and spiritual depth conveyed in the biblical texts.

Did You Know?

The word ἐκπλήσσω was not only used to describe astonishment in religious contexts but also in everyday life in ancient Greece. Whether witnessing a spectacular natural phenomenon or hearing an unexpected piece of news, the Greeks would use ἐκπλήσσω to capture the sudden and overwhelming nature of their reactions. This highlights the versatility of the term and its importance in conveying human emotion.