Introduction:

In the study of the New Testament, understanding the nuances of Greek words is crucial for accurate interpretation and deeper insight into the text’s theological and cultural meanings. The word ἐγγύς (G1451: engýs) is particularly significant as it denotes proximity, whether in a physical, temporal, or metaphorical sense. This adverb is often used to convey the nearness of events, places, or even the kingdom of God, making it a key term in eschatological passages and teachings about God’s imminent actions. Exploring ἐγγύς provides us with a richer understanding of how the early Christians perceived the nearness of divine intervention and the importance of being prepared for the coming of God’s kingdom.

Key Information:

• Greek Word: ἐγγύς (engýs) [en-goos’]
• Etymology: Derived from the Greek root ἔγγυς (engýs), meaning “near” or “close.” The word does not have a prefix or suffix, making it a straightforward adverb expressing proximity.
• Part of Speech: Adverb
• The F.O.G Word Choice: Coming Soon

Primary Meanings:

• Near in Space: ἐγγύς often refers to physical closeness or proximity to a location, person, or object.
• Near in Time: It can also indicate temporal proximity, describing events that are about to happen or are imminent.
• Near in Relationship: In a metaphorical sense, ἐγγύς is used to describe a close relationship or connection, often between God and believers.

Similar Words:

• πλησίον (plēsíon) [play-see’-on]: Meaning “near” or “neighbor,” this word is often used to describe someone who is nearby, either physically or relationally. While πλησίον can refer to a person who is close, ἐγγύς focuses more on the concept of proximity in a broader sense.
• ἀμφί (amphí) [am-fee’]: An older word meaning “around” or “near,” used primarily in classical Greek. It denotes proximity but often with a spatial or circular emphasis, unlike ἐγγύς, which is more direct in expressing closeness.

Further Insights:

• Morphological Insights:
• ἐγγύς is an adverb and, as such, does not decline or change form. It is used to modify verbs, adjectives, or other adverbs to express the concept of nearness.
• The word is versatile in its application, appearing in various contexts to indicate physical, temporal, or metaphorical proximity, making it a key term in theological discussions about the nearness of God’s kingdom or impending events.

Lexicon Insights:

BDAG: ἐγγύς is defined as “near” or “close,” with the lexicon highlighting its use in both spatial and temporal contexts. It is frequently used in the New Testament to describe the imminence of the kingdom of God or the approach of significant events.

Thayer’s: Thayer’s lexicon describes ἐγγύς as an adverb meaning “near” or “at hand.” The lexicon emphasizes its role in passages where the nearness of an event, particularly eschatological events, is being communicated.

Vine’s: ἐγγύς is noted as an adverb that means “near” or “nigh,” with a focus on its theological significance in the New Testament. Vine’s discusses how the term is used to underscore the urgency of the kingdom of God being “at hand” and the need for readiness among believers.

LSJ: In classical Greek, ἐγγύς is recognized as an adverb meaning “near” or “close,” used in various contexts, including geography, time, and relationships. The lexicon notes its broad application in both everyday speech and literary works.

Strong’s Exhaustive Concordance: ἐγγύς is listed as “near” or “at hand,” with emphasis on its Biblical usage to describe proximity in space, time, or relationship, particularly in relation to God’s kingdom or the return of Christ.

Scripture References:

• Matthew 24:32-33: “From the fig tree learn its lesson: as soon as its branch becomes tender and puts out its leaves, you know that summer is near (ἐγγύς). So also, when you see all these things, you know that he is near (ἐγγύς), at the very gates.”
• James 4:8: “Draw near (ἐγγίζω) to God, and he will draw near (ἐγγύς) to you.”
• Philippians 4:5: “Let your reasonableness be known to everyone. The Lord is at hand (ἐγγύς).”

Classical Usage:

Summary of ἐγγύς (G1451: engýs):

The adverb ἐγγύς (G1451: engýs) is a vital term in the New Testament, used to express the concept of nearness in various contexts, including physical proximity, temporal imminence, and relational closeness. It is a key word in eschatological passages, emphasizing the urgency of the kingdom of God being “at hand” and the need for spiritual readiness. ἐγγύς also appears in everyday contexts, indicating closeness in space or time. Understanding this term enriches our comprehension of the New Testament’s teachings on the nearness of divine events and the importance of maintaining a close relationship with God. Its use in classical Greek literature further illustrates its versatility and significance in conveying the idea of proximity in both secular and sacred texts.

Did You Know?

Did You Know? The word ἐγγύς not only denotes physical or temporal nearness but is also used in the New Testament to emphasize the urgency of spiritual matters, such as the return of Christ or the coming of God’s kingdom. This use of ἐγγύς reflects the early Christian belief in the imminence of eschatological events, urging believers to live in a state of readiness and expectation.