Introduction

Understanding Greek words such as θέλω (thelō) is essential in Biblical studies because it provides a more nuanced understanding of the text. θέλω is a verb that frequently appears in the New Testament, conveying the ideas of “willing,” “wishing,” or “desiring.” It holds significant relevance in both New Testament interpretation and the study of ancient Greek culture, where the concepts of will and intent were central to philosophical and theological discourse.

Key Information

• The Greek Word: θέλω (thelō), [THEH-lo]
• Etymology: Derived from Proto-Indo-European roots related to desire or volition, possibly linked to the root wel- meaning “to wish” or “to will.”
• Part of Speech: Verb
• Applicable Grammatical Details: Present active indicative, primarily middle or passive in form with some active usages.
• The F.O.G Word Choice: Coming Soon.

Primary Meanings

• To will
• To desire
• To intend
• To be resolved or determined
• To have a purpose or be inclined

Similar Words: βουλομαι (boulomai), [BOO-loh-my] – While βουλομαι conveys a more deliberate and considered decision or choice, θέλω often implies a more spontaneous or immediate desire or intention.

Further Insights: θέλω is a verb that can appear in various grammatical forms, primarily in the present tense, but it also appears in future and aorist tenses, as well as in imperative and subjunctive moods. The verb form changes to convey various nuances of desire, intention, and volition. A chart showing the full declension is below:

Click here for a beginners guide to reading Greek: Understanding Greek Grammar: A Beginner’s Guide.

Lexicon Insights

• BDAG: Describes θέλω as a verb that signifies “to will” or “to wish,” emphasizing its use to convey intention, desire, or determination in both divine and human contexts.
• Thayers: Defines θέλω as “to will, to wish, to desire,” focusing on the word’s application to both God’s will and human decision-making processes.
• Vines: Highlights that θέλω is used extensively in the New Testament, both in relation to God’s sovereign will and in the context of human desires and choices.
• LSJ: Discusses θέλω in classical Greek literature, noting its use in philosophical texts to convey volition and intention, often in contrast to simple desire or want.
• Strong’s Exhaustive Concordance: Indicates that θέλω is employed to express deliberate or intentional action or decision, frequently appearing in key theological passages.

Related Scripture References

• Matthew 8:3 – “Jesus stretched out His hand and touched him, saying, ‘I am willing [θέλω]; be cleansed.’ And immediately his leprosy was cleansed.”
• Mark 9:35 – “Sitting down, He called the twelve and said to them, ‘If anyone wants [θέλει] to be first, he shall be last of all and servant of all.'”
• Romans 7:15 – “For what I am doing, I do not understand; for I am not practicing what I would like [θέλω] to do, but I am doing the very thing I hate.”
• John 17:24 – “Father, I desire [θέλω] that they also, whom You have given Me, be with Me where I am, so that they may see My glory which You have given Me.”
• Galatians 5:17 – “For the flesh sets its desire against the Spirit, and the Spirit against the flesh; for these are in opposition to one another, so that you may not do the things that you please [θέλητε].”

Classical Usage

Summary of θέλω (G2309)

In summary, θέλω (thelō) is a Greek verb that conveys the meanings of “to will,” “to desire,” “to intend,” and “to wish.” It is an essential word in both Biblical and classical Greek literature, capturing the nuances of both human and divine volition. It reflects not only a general desire or wish but often a specific, purposeful intention. Understanding θέλω is crucial for interpreting key theological concepts related to God’s will and human decision-making processes.

Did You Know?

Did you know? The Greek verb θέλω appears over 200 times in the New Testament, making it one of the most frequently used verbs to express both divine and human intentions, desires, and decisions. It serves as a foundational word for understanding passages that deal with God’s will, human free will, and the complex interplay between divine sovereignty and human choice.