Brief Overview of σιωπάω (Strong’s G4623: siōpaō)

Strong’s G4623: A verb meaning “to be silent” or “to become quiet,” often used in contexts of deliberate restraint or commanded silence. In the New Testament, it appears in significant moments of revelation, healing, and divine authority, highlighting both appropriate and inappropriate times for silence.

U- Unveiling the Word

Σιωπάω carries deep significance beyond mere absence of speech. It often appears in contexts where silence is either commanded or chosen, revealing important spiritual dynamics. In the Gospels, Jesus both commands silence (to demons and crowds) and breaks it (healing the mute). The early church understood this word as representing both proper restraint and the necessity to speak truth. When demons are commanded to be silent, it shows Christ’s authority; when crowds are silenced so others can speak to Jesus, it demonstrates His accessibility to all who seek Him.

N – Necessary Information

• Greek Word: σιωπάω, siōpaō, see-o-PAH-o
• Detailed Pronunciation: σι (see) ω (o) πά (PAH) ω (o) – stress on third syllable
• Part of Speech: Verb

Etymology:

• From root σιωπ- (siōp-) relating to silence
• -άω verb ending indicating continuous action
• Related to prehistoric Indo-European roots meaning “quiet”

D – Defining Meanings

• To be silent
• To become quiet
• To keep silent
• To cease speaking

Translation Options:

• Be silent – emphasizing the state
• Keep quiet – suggesting continuous restraint
• Hold one’s peace – formal/archaic usage expressing deliberate restraint

E – Exploring Similar Words

• σιγάω (sigaō, see-GAH-o) – See G4601: Similar meaning but more formal
• φιμόω (phimoō, fee-MO-o) – See G5392: To muzzle or silence forcefully
• ἡσυχάζω (hēsychazō, hay-soo-KHAD-zo) – See G2270: To rest quietly

R – Reviewing the Word’s Morphology

• Tense: Present, Future, Aorist
• Voice: Active, Passive
• Mood: Indicative, Subjunctive, Imperative
• Person and Number: All forms possible

Examples:
Present active: σιωπῶ (I am silent)
Aorist active: ἐσιώπησα (I became silent)
Future: σιωπήσω (I will be silent)

S – Studying Lexicon Insights

BDAG emphasizes its use in contexts of supernatural revelation and healing. Thayer’s notes its frequent appearance in commands. LSJ documents its classical usage in various contexts of silence. Vine’s highlights its use in Mark’s gospel particularly. Moulton and Milligan cite examples showing its common usage in daily life.

T – Tracing the Scriptures

First appearance:
Matthew 20:31: “The crowd rebuked them, telling them to [be silent] [σιωπάω], but they cried out all the more.”

Additional References:
Matthew 26:63, Mark 3:4, Mark 4:39, Mark 10:48, Luke 19:40

A – Analyzing Classical Usage

N – Noteworthy Summary

Σιωπάω reveals profound truths about when to be silent and when to speak in God’s kingdom. Jesus demonstrates His authority by commanding silence from demons while encouraging the cries of those seeking mercy. This shows us that the good news of King Jesus sometimes requires holy silence for divine revelation and sometimes bold proclamation of truth.

D – Did You Know?

• Jesus used this word to command both nature and demons to be silent
• It appears most frequently in Mark’s gospel
• The word can indicate either voluntary or commanded silence

Strong’s G4623: A verb meaning “to be silent” or “to become quiet,” often used in contexts of deliberate restraint or commanded silence. In the New Testament, it appears in significant moments of revelation, healing, and divine authority, highlighting both appropriate and inappropriate times for silence.

Part of speech: Verb

Tags: silence, commands, healing, revelation, authority, restraint, demons, miracles, crowds, jesus-authority, communication, worship​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​