Pronunciation Guide: an-DRID-zom-ahee

Basic Definition

Strong’s G407: ἀνδρίζομαι (andrizomai) means to behave like a man, specifically to demonstrate courage, strength, and steadfastness in the face of challenges. It carries the connotation of displaying mature masculine virtues, particularly bravery and moral fortitude. This middle voice verb emphasizes the personal responsibility to actively cultivate and display such qualities.

Etymology and Morphology

• Part of Speech: Middle voice verb
• Root Word: ἀνήρ (anēr) meaning “man, male”
• Language Origin: Classical Greek
• Primary Usage: Exhortative contexts, military metaphors
• Literary Context: Found in both narrative and epistolary literature

ἀνδρίζομαι Morphology:

• ἀνδρίζομαι (present indicative middle) – I am acting like a man
• ἀνδρίζεσθε (present imperative middle, 2nd person plural) – act like men!
• ἀνδρίζεσθαι (present infinitive middle) – to act like a man
• ἀνδριζόμενος (present participle middle) – acting like a man

Origin & History

The term ἀνδρίζομαι has deep roots in classical Greek literature, where it frequently appeared in military contexts. Thucydides employed it in his “History of the Peloponnesian War” to describe soldiers displaying courage in battle. Xenophon used it similarly in his “Anabasis” when describing the virtuous conduct of Greek warriors.

In the Septuagint (LXX), ἀνδρίζομαι appears numerous times, particularly in historical and prophetic books. It often translates the Hebrew חָזַק (chazaq), meaning “be strong, strengthen.” Notable usage appears in Joshua 1:6-9, where God repeatedly commands Joshua to “be strong and courageous” as he leads Israel.

Expanded Definitions & Translation Options

• To act with the courage and strength expected of a mature man
• To stand firm with resolute determination
• To display moral and spiritual fortitude
• To exercise manly virtue in facing challenges

ἀνδρίζομαι Translation Options:

• “Be courageous” – Emphasizes the quality of bravery inherent in the term
• “Act like men” – Literal translation capturing the connection to masculine virtue
• “Stand firm” – Reflects the steadfast nature implied in the word
• “Be strong” – Captures the aspect of spiritual and moral strength
• “Show yourselves brave” – Emphasizes the active, demonstrative nature of the middle voice

Biblical Usage

In the New Testament, ἀνδρίζομαι appears only once, in 1 Corinthians 16:13, where Paul combines it with other military-style commands: “Be watchful, stand firm in the faith, act like men, be strong.” This positioning suggests it represents a crucial aspect of Christian maturity and spiritual warfare.

In the Septuagint, the word appears more frequently, often in contexts of military leadership and spiritual courage:

• “Be on the alert, stand firm in the faith, act like men, be strong.” 1 Corinthians 16:13
• “Be strong and courageous, for you shall give this people possession of the land.” Joshua 1:6
• “Be strong, and let us show ourselves courageous.” 2 Samuel 10:12
• “Be strong, and let your heart take courage.” Psalm 31:24

Cultural Insights

In the ancient Greco-Roman world, ἀνδρίζομαι was closely tied to the concept of ἀρετή (arete) – the ideal of masculine excellence and virtue. This wasn’t limited to physical prowess but encompassed moral courage, leadership, and protection of the weak. The term reflected societal expectations for mature men to display courage, wisdom, and moral fortitude in both public and private spheres.

This understanding would have resonated deeply with the first-century Corinthian believers, who lived in a culture that highly valued masculine virtue. Paul’s use of this term would have immediately evoked associations with the highest ideals of manhood, now redirected toward spiritual warfare and faithful discipleship.

Theological Significance

The use of ἀνδρίζομαι in 1 Corinthians 16:13 reveals profound theological truth about spiritual maturity and the Christian life. By employing this term, Paul indicates that genuine spiritual maturity manifests in courage, steadfastness, and active engagement in spiritual warfare. This connects to the broader biblical theme of the believer as a soldier of Messiah Jesus.

The word’s appearance alongside commands to be watchful and stand firm in faith suggests that true Christian courage is not mere bravado but is firmly grounded in faith and spiritual vigilance. This courage is not gender-exclusive but rather represents the spiritual maturity all believers should aspire to, reflecting the character of the Messiah Himself.

Personal Application

In our contemporary context, ἀνδρίζομαι challenges believers to cultivate spiritual courage and maturity. This isn’t about conforming to cultural gender stereotypes but about developing the spiritual strength and courage necessary to stand firm in faith amid opposition and challenges.

This word calls us to “grow up” spiritually, to move beyond spiritual infancy into mature faith that stands firm, protects truth, and courageously faces spiritual battles. It reminds us that passive Christianity is insufficient – we are called to active, courageous engagement in our faith walk.

Related Words

• κραταιόω (krataioo) – to strengthen, become strong: Connected to the idea of gaining spiritual strength but focuses more on the process of strengthening rather than the display of courage See G2901
• στήκω (steko) – to stand firm: Often used alongside ἀνδρίζομαι to emphasize steadfast faith See G4739
• θαρρέω (tharreo) – to be confident, courageous: Emphasizes the internal state of courage rather than its active display See G2292

Did you Know?

• The term ἀνδρίζομαι was frequently used in ancient military recruitment documents to describe the qualities sought in potential soldiers, emphasizing both physical and moral courage.
• In modern Greek, the word still exists and is used to encourage someone to “man up” or “be brave,” though its usage has evolved to be less gender-specific and more focused on general courage.
• The combination of commands in 1 Corinthians 16:13 – watch, stand firm, act like men, be strong – follows a pattern similar to ancient military commands, suggesting Paul was drawing on military imagery familiar to his readers.

Remember This

ἀνδρίζομαι represents the divine call to display mature, courageous faith that stands firm in the face of spiritual warfare, reflecting the character of the Messiah Himself.