Transliteration: diagongýzō (pronounced dee-ah-gon-GOO-zoh)
Part of Speech: Verb

The Greek verb διαγογγύζω (diagongýzō) is formed by combining the preposition διά (dia), meaning “through” or “by means of,” with the verb γογγύζω (gongýzō), which means “to murmur” or “to grumble.” As a result, diagongýzō specifically denotes the act of murmuring or grumbling thoroughly, often implying an extended or intensified form of complaint or discontent. The term is used to describe a persistent, often subdued expression of dissatisfaction, which can occur in communal settings or individually.

In the context of the New Testament and classical Greek literature, diagongýzō carries a negative connotation, typically associated with a group’s or individual’s response to dissatisfaction or perceived injustice. The verb can also imply a sense of rebellious or discontented speech, where the grumbling is not just a passive reaction but potentially leads to further discontent or discord.

Scripture References

Luke 5:30 – “But the Pharisees and their scribes began murmuring (diagongýzō) against His disciples, saying, ‘Why do you eat and drink with tax collectors and sinners?'”

Luke 15:2 – “And the Pharisees and the scribes murmured (diagongýzō), saying, ‘This man receives sinners and eats with them.'”

Luke 19:7 – “And when they saw it, they all murmured (diagongýzō), saying, ‘He has gone to be a guest with a man who is a sinner.'”

These verses illustrate how diagongýzō is used to describe the grumbling or murmuring of the Pharisees and scribes against Jesus and His disciples, often in response to actions they disapproved of, such as associating with those they deemed sinners.

Detailed Lexicon Description

In BDAG (Bauer-Danker-Arndt-Gingrich), diagongýzō is described as a verb meaning “to express discontent or grumble.” BDAG emphasizes that the term implies a vocal expression of dissatisfaction, often directed against someone in authority or someone whose actions are perceived as unjust or improper. This murmuring is not just internal or private but is expressed aloud, often within a group, leading to shared discontent.

Thayer’s Greek Lexicon similarly defines diagongýzō as “to murmur or grumble against someone,” highlighting its use in contexts where people express dissatisfaction with the actions of others. Thayer’s also notes that the word carries a connotation of discontent that is communicated through murmuring, rather than open confrontation.

The LSJ (Liddell-Scott-Jones) lexicon provides additional context, noting that diagongýzō was used in classical Greek literature to describe the act of murmuring or grumbling within a group, particularly in political or social contexts. This usage underscores the communal aspect of diagongýzō, where dissatisfaction is shared and expressed collectively.

Usage in Classical Greek Literature

1. Herodotus, Histories 3.80 – Herodotus uses diagongýzō to describe the murmuring of Persian soldiers who were discontented with their leaders during a military campaign. This usage highlights how the term could describe dissatisfaction within a group, potentially leading to discord or unrest.
2. Plato, Republic 516a – In Plato’s Republic, diagongýzō is used to describe the murmuring of citizens who are dissatisfied with the ruling class or the decisions made by their leaders. The term underscores the potential for murmuring to indicate deeper social or political unrest.
3. Xenophon, Anabasis 5.7.10 – Xenophon employs diagongýzō to describe the grumbling of soldiers during the long march home after the failed Persian expedition. The term conveys the sense of ongoing dissatisfaction and fatigue among the troops.

Summary

The Greek verb διαγογγύζω (diagongýzō) is a term that conveys the act of murmuring or grumbling, often in response to dissatisfaction or perceived injustice. Derived from the combination of διά (dia), meaning “through,” and γογγύζω (gongýzō), meaning “to murmur,” the term emphasizes the thoroughness or intensity of the discontent expressed. In the New Testament, diagongýzō is used to describe the Pharisees’ and scribes’ murmuring against Jesus and His disciples, particularly in response to actions they disapproved of.

In classical Greek literature, diagongýzō was commonly used to describe communal murmuring or grumbling, particularly in political or military contexts. This usage highlights the potential for such murmuring to indicate broader dissatisfaction within a group, which could lead to unrest or discord.

Overall, diagongýzō is a word that captures the essence of expressed discontent, often within a group setting, and serves as a reminder of the power of words to influence and reflect collective sentiment.