Introduction

In the study of Biblical Greek, each word can unlock deeper layers of meaning in the Scriptures. The word ἐκδοχή (ekdochē) is one such term, encapsulating concepts of reception, expectation, and inheritance. While it appears less frequently in the New Testament, its implications are profound, especially in the context of understanding how early Christians viewed the promises of God and their fulfillment. Exploring this word not only aids in New Testament interpretation but also enriches our understanding of ancient Greek culture and how language shaped the theological discourse of the time.

Key Information

• Greek Word: ἐκδοχή (ekdochē) [ek-do-KHAY]
• Etymology: Derived from the Greek preposition ἐκ (ek), meaning “out of,” and δέχομαι (dechomai), meaning “to receive” or “to welcome.” The compound form ἐκδοχή therefore signifies “a receiving” or “an expectation.”
• Part of Speech: Noun, feminine. It follows the standard first declension pattern in Greek, which is common for feminine nouns.
• The F.O.G Word Choice: Coming Soon

Primary Meanings

• Reception: The primary meaning of ἐκδοχή centers on the idea of reception or receiving something, particularly something that is awaited or expected.
• Expectation: This word also carries the nuance of expectation, often in the sense of eagerly waiting for something that is promised or anticipated.

Similar Words:

• προσδοκία (prosdokia) [pros-do-KEE-ah]: Meaning “expectation,” but with a slightly different emphasis on the anticipation of something uncertain or unexpected.
• ἀποδοχή (apodochē) [a-po-do-KHAY]: Similar in meaning to ἐκδοχή, but with a stronger emphasis on the act of acceptance or approval, rather than just receiving or expecting.

Further Insights

• Morphology: The word ἐκδοχή follows the first declension pattern for feminine nouns. It is typically used in contexts where something is received or expected, often in relation to divine promises or inheritance.

Morphology Table

Lexicon Insights

• BDAG: Defines ἐκδοχή as “reception” or “expectation,” particularly in the context of awaiting something with anticipation, often used in philosophical or theological discussions.
• Thayer’s: Highlights the word’s use in reference to expectations concerning the fulfillment of promises or prophecies, particularly those related to divine matters.
• Vine’s: Notes the usage of ἐκδοχή in early Christian writings to express the expectation of Christ’s return or the fulfillment of God’s promises.
• LSJ: Focuses on the secular usage of the word in classical Greek literature, where it often denoted the reception of guests or the expectation of visitors.
• Strong’s Exhaustive Concordance: Provides a basic definition of ἐκδοχή as “expectation” or “reception,” with an emphasis on the sense of awaiting something eagerly.

Scripture References:

• Hebrews 10:27 – “But a certain fearful expectation (ἐκδοχή) of judgment, and fiery indignation, which shall devour the adversaries.”
• Romans 8:19 – “For the earnest expectation (ἐκδοχή) of the creation eagerly waits for the revealing of the sons of God.”

Classical Usage

In classical Greek literature, ἐκδοχή was used in various contexts to denote the idea of receiving something or the act of waiting with anticipation.

Summary of ἐκδοχή (G1561: ekdochē)

The Greek word ἐκδοχή (ekdochē) encompasses the ideas of reception and expectation, making it a word of significant theological and philosophical weight in the New Testament. It captures the sense of eagerly awaiting something promised, such as divine intervention, judgment, or the fulfillment of prophecy. Understanding ἐκδοχή allows for a deeper appreciation of the mindset of early Christians who lived in anticipation of Christ’s return and the ultimate fulfillment of God’s promises.

Did You Know?

The word ἐκδοχή was not only used in religious texts but also found in everyday Greek literature, where it described the anticipation of events such as the arrival of guests or the fulfillment of plans. This dual usage highlights the word’s versatility and its deep roots in both sacred and secular contexts.