Introduction

In Biblical studies, understanding Greek words is essential for unlocking deeper meanings in the scriptures and gaining insight into the ancient cultural context. The Greek word ἰδού (idou) is particularly significant because it functions as an interjection that draws attention to something important or noteworthy. Its frequent use in the New Testament, especially in narratives and discourses, underlines its relevance in interpreting Biblical texts. The word also has deep roots in ancient Greek culture and literature, where it served as an attention-grabbing expression.

Key Information

• The Greek Word: ἰδού, transliterated as idou [ee-DOO].
• Etymology: Derived from the verb ὁράω (horaō), meaning “to see” or “to look,” indicating a command or strong suggestion to observe or pay attention.
• Part of Speech: Particle (interjection). It does not have declension forms as a noun or verb would.
• The F.O.G Word Choice: Coming Soon.

Primary Meanings

• Look!: Used to draw attention to something specific or important.
• Behold!: A literary or formal way to make an announcement or declaration.
• See!: A simpler form to direct attention, often indicating revelation or insight.

Similar Words: ἰδού can be compared to ἰδέ (ide), another form of “look” or “see.” While both serve a similar function, ἰδέ is more directly imperative and less emphatic than ἰδού. ἰδού often carries a more solemn or dramatic tone, especially in Biblical and classical usage.

Further Insights: ἰδού does not have declension as it is a particle. However, it plays a significant syntactical role in a sentence, often introducing a clause or phrase that highlights a revelation, command, or significant event. In Biblical Greek, ἰδού is frequently used to call the reader’s or listener’s attention to a divine or prophetic statement. For a detailed guide on reading Greek, Click here for a beginners guide to reading Greek.

Lexicon Insights

BDAG: ἰδού is defined as an interjection that serves to draw attention to something important. It is often translated as “behold!” or “look!” in English, reflecting its function to focus the audience’s attention.

Thayers: According to Thayer’s lexicon, ἰδού is used to command notice or to make a point more vivid. It often introduces a new subject of importance, such as an event or divine message, underscoring its importance in narrative texts.

Vines: Vines Expository Dictionary explains ἰδού as an imperative form of “see,” primarily used in narratives to direct the reader’s focus. It emphasizes the visual or mental perception of something crucial or noteworthy.

LSJ: The LSJ lexicon elaborates on ἰδού as an exclamation used to command attention. It is noted for its use in both prose and poetry, where it serves to make a transition or to highlight an upcoming statement.

Strong’s Exhaustive Concordance: Strong’s Concordance describes ἰδού (G2400) as an imperative to “see” or “behold,” reflecting its frequent use in both the Septuagint and the New Testament to alert the reader or listener to something significant.

Related Scripture References

• Matthew 1:20: “But when he had considered this, behold [ἰδού], an angel of the Lord appeared to him in a dream, saying, ‘Joseph, son of David, do not be afraid to take Mary as your wife; for the Child who has been conceived in her is of the Holy Spirit.'”
• Luke 1:31: “And behold [ἰδού], you will conceive in your womb and bear a son, and you shall name Him Jesus.”
• Revelation 3:20: “Behold [ἰδού], I stand at the door and knock; if anyone hears My voice and opens the door, I will come in to him and will dine with him, and he with Me.”
• Acts 8:36: “As they went along the road they came to some water; and the eunuch said, ‘Look [ἰδού], water! What prevents me from being baptized?'”

Classical Usage

In classical Greek literature, ἰδού was commonly used to command attention, much like in Biblical Greek. Here are some examples:

In the Septuagint, ἰδού was often used in a similar context to its New Testament usage, highlighting divine or significant revelations:

Summary of ἰδού (G2400)

The Greek word ἰδού (idou), translated as “behold” or “look,” serves as an interjection that draws attention to something significant or noteworthy. It is frequently used in the New Testament to introduce divine revelations, important declarations, or prophetic statements. This word plays a crucial role in both Biblical and classical Greek contexts as an attention-commanding expression. Its usage helps readers focus on key messages or events, providing emphasis and clarity in narrative and prophetic texts.

Did You Know?

• Did You Know? The word ἰδού is one of the most frequently used interjections in the New Testament, appearing over 200 times.
• Did You Know? ἰδού is often paired with imperative verbs to reinforce a command or to highlight an important action or event.
• Did You Know? In ancient Greek theater, ἰδού was used by characters to announce sudden revelations or dramatic turns, much like its use in Biblical narratives to draw attention to divine messages or miracles.

This comprehensive overview of ἰδού provides a detailed understanding of its usage, meanings, and importance in Biblical and classical literature, enriching the reader’s grasp of its application in various contexts.