Dérō (pronounced DEH-ro) is a Greek verb that primarily means “to flay” or “to skin,” but it is also used metaphorically to mean “to beat” or “to strike.” The verb δέρω comes from an ancient practice of removing the skin from animals, a task that required striking or scraping the hide. Over time, the term took on a broader meaning, encompassing physical beating or striking in a general sense. In the New Testament, δέρω is often used in contexts where individuals are being physically assaulted or beaten.

Root Word and Part of Speech:

• Root Word: The verb δέρω is a primary root and is not derived from another word.
• Part of Speech: Verb.

Primary Meanings:

• To Flay or Skin: The literal meaning of δέρω involves the act of removing the skin from an animal, a process that can involve beating or scraping.
• To Beat or Strike: By extension, δέρω is used to describe physical violence against a person, particularly in the sense of beating or flogging.

Scripture References

1. Matthew 21:35: “And the tenants took his servants and beat (δέρω, dérō) one, killed another, and stoned another.”

• Transliteration: dérō

1. Luke 12:47: “And that servant who knew his master’s will but did not get ready or act according to his will, will receive a severe beating (δέρω, dérō).”

• Transliteration: dérō

1. Acts 22:19: “And I said, ‘Lord, they themselves know that in one synagogue after another I imprisoned and beat (δέρω, dérō) those who believed in you.’”

• Transliteration: dérō

Detailed Description

BDAG (A Greek-English Lexicon of the New Testament and Other Early Christian Literature) defines δέρω primarily as “to skin” or “to flay,” but emphasizes that it is most commonly used in the New Testament to mean “to beat” or “to strike.” BDAG notes that the verb is often associated with physical punishment or assault, particularly in parables or narratives where individuals are mistreated.

Thayer’s Greek Lexicon provides a similar explanation, describing δέρω as “to flay” or “to beat.” Thayer’s highlights that while the original meaning relates to the physical act of skinning, the word is more frequently used in a figurative sense to describe violent treatment, such as in the beating of servants or prisoners.

Vine’s Expository Dictionary supports this understanding by noting that δέρω is used in contexts where physical violence or punishment is involved. Vine’s emphasizes that the term can refer to either the literal act of skinning or a more general application to physical assault, depending on the context.

Strong’s Exhaustive Concordance provides a concise definition of δέρω as “to skin” or “to beat,” focusing on its application in scenarios of physical violence, whether literal or metaphorical.

Usage in Classical Greek Literature

1. Homer’s “Iliad”: In the epic, references to δέρω or similar concepts are made in the context of warriors being struck or beaten in battle. The term would apply to the physical violence described in the numerous combat scenes, where the stripping of armor or skin from fallen enemies is mentioned.
2. Herodotus’ “Histories”: Herodotus often describes acts of violence and punishment in his accounts of various cultures and wars. Δέρω would be relevant in these descriptions, especially in contexts where individuals are beaten as a form of punishment or during battle.
3. Plato’s “Gorgias”: Plato uses similar verbs to describe the act of beating or striking in discussions of justice and punishment. Δέρω would align with the ideas presented in these dialogues about the physical consequences of wrongdoing.

Summary

Dérō (G1194) is a Greek verb meaning “to flay,” “to skin,” or “to beat.” While its literal meaning relates to the act of removing the skin from an animal, the word is more commonly used in the New Testament to describe physical violence or beating. This broader application of δέρω is evident in passages where individuals are beaten or struck as a form of punishment or mistreatment. Classical Greek literature also reflects the dual meaning of δέρω, applying it both to the physical act of skinning and to the broader concept of physical assault. Whether in the context of ancient warfare, punishment, or moral discourse, δέρω conveys a sense of physical aggression and harm, making it a significant term in both literal and metaphorical uses.