Unveiling the Word

Understanding Greek words such as κορέννυμι (korénnymi) is essential for in-depth biblical studies, as these words often carry rich meanings and connotations that shape our interpretation of scripture. Appearing in Acts 27:38, korénnymi is particularly significant in its context, as it relates to themes of provision and fulfillment. It illustrates how the New Testament writers employed specific language to convey nuanced meanings, reflecting not only the immediate narrative but also broader cultural and theological understandings from ancient Greek and Jewish traditions.

Necessary Information

Greek Word: κορέννυμι (korénnymi) [ko-REN-nee-mee].

Etymology: The word korénnymi is believed to derive from the root koros, which means “satisfaction” or “fullness.” The verb form expresses the idea of filling up or satisfying, especially in the context of appetite or need.

Part of Speech: Verb. As a verb, korénnymi primarily conveys action, specifically the act of filling, satiating, or satisfying. It follows the patterns of Greek verb conjugation, showing changes in form to express different voices, moods, tenses, persons, and numbers.

The F.O.G Word Choice: Coming Soon.

Defining Meanings

1. To Fill or Satiate: The most basic meaning of korénnymi is to fill or make full. This can refer to satisfying hunger or thirst, as when a person is filled with food or drink.
2. To Satisfy an Appetite or Desire: Beyond mere physical filling, korénnymi can also imply satisfying a desire or appetite, providing for needs in a broader sense, whether materially or spiritually.
3. To Be Content or Fulfilled: By extension, the term can suggest being content, where the fulfillment leads to a state of satisfaction or completeness, aligning with spiritual or emotional contexts.

Exploring Similar Words

1. πληρόω (plēróō) [plee-ROH-oh]: This verb also means “to fill,” but it is often used in a broader context, such as filling with knowledge, spiritual fullness, or the fulfillment of prophecy. It emphasizes the idea of completing something rather than just satisfying an immediate need.
2. χορτάζω (chortázō) [khor-TAH-zoh]: Similar in meaning to korénnymi, this word is often used to refer to feeding or nourishing, specifically in the context of livestock or people. It carries connotations of abundance and plenty.
3. ἀναπίπτω (anapiptō) [ah-na-PEEP-toh]: Though more distantly related, this verb means “to recline” or “to lean back,” often used in contexts where one is satisfied after eating, hence a secondary connection to fullness or satisfaction.

Reviewing the Word’s Morphology

Tense, Voice, Mood:

• Korénnymi appears in various tenses, but in Acts 27:38, it is found in the aorist active indicative form, which indicates a completed action in the past.

Person and Number:

• It can be conjugated across all persons (1st, 2nd, 3rd) and numbers (singular, plural).

Aspect:

• The verb is typically used in the imperfective aspect when the action is ongoing or habitual and in the perfective aspect when the action is seen as completed.

Conjugation Table (Present Indicative):

Click here for a beginners guide to reading Greek.

Studying Lexicon Insights

The word korénnymi appears in Greek literature to express the idea of filling or satiating in both literal and figurative contexts. In the New Testament, it carries the implication of fulfillment and provision, emphasizing divine care and sustenance. Lexicons such as BDAG and Thayer’s note its use in contexts of feeding, satisfying needs, and providing sustenance. In Acts 27:38, korénnymi is used when the sailors are filled with food before throwing the grain overboard, illustrating both physical sustenance and a sense of finality. This overview synthesizes insights from BDAG, Thayer’s, LSJ, Vine’s, Strong’s, LEH, and Moulton and Milligan.

Tracing Related Scriptures

1. Acts 27:38: “When they had eaten their fill [κορεσθέντες], they lightened the ship, throwing out the wheat into the sea.” Here, korénnymi is used in its aorist participle form, indicating the completion of a satisfying action.

Analyzing Classical Usage

Noteworthy Summary

The Greek verb korénnymi is a powerful term that conveys the idea of satisfaction, fullness, and completion. It is used in the New Testament and other ancient texts to illustrate both physical and spiritual nourishment. Understanding this word enhances our comprehension of biblical narratives that discuss divine provision and the fulfillment of needs, reflecting broader cultural and theological meanings.

Did You Know?

1. The term korénnymi is closely related to the English word “core,” hinting at something filled or full to its core.
2. In classical Greek literature, korénnymi often depicted the end of a feast or banquet, highlighting satisfaction and contentment.
3. The usage of korénnymi in Acts 27:38 uniquely combines both literal and metaphorical meanings, linking physical sustenance with the imminent spiritual journey of Paul and his companions.