Pronunciation Guide: hah-ee-REH-oh

Basic Definition

Strong’s G138: αἱρέω (haireō) fundamentally means “to take, choose, or prefer.” It carries the sense of making a deliberate choice or selection from available options. The word implies careful consideration and conscious decision-making, often with significant consequences or implications.

Etymology and Morphology

• Part of Speech: Verb
• Root Meaning: To grasp, seize, or take for oneself
• Language Origin: Classical Greek
• Primary Usage: Narrative and epistolary literature
• Voice: Middle/Passive in New Testament usage

αἱρέω Morphology:

• αἱρέω (present active indicative) – I choose/take
• αἱρήσω (future active indicative) – I will choose
• αἱρήσομαι (future middle indicative) – I will choose for myself
• αἱρεῖσθαι (present middle/passive infinitive) – to choose/be chosen
• αἱρούμενος (present middle/passive participle) – choosing/being chosen

Origin & History

The word αἱρέω has deep roots in classical Greek literature, appearing prominently in works of ancient philosophers and historians. Thucydides frequently employed it in his “History of the Peloponnesian War” when describing strategic military decisions and political choices.

In Plato’s “Republic,” the word takes on philosophical significance in discussions about choosing between virtue and vice, particularly in the myth of Er where souls choose their next life. This philosophical usage influenced its later religious and theological applications.

Expanded Definitions & Translation Options

• To take or seize with the mind, comprehend
• To choose or select deliberately
• To prefer or elect
• To determine or purpose

αἱρέω Translation Options:

• “Choose” – Best when emphasizing deliberate selection
• “Prefer” – Appropriate when comparing options
• “Take” – Useful when physical action is implied
• “Elect” – Suitable in contexts of formal selection or appointment
• “Determine” – Effective when emphasizing resolution or purpose

Biblical Usage

In the New Testament, αἱρέω appears with particular theological significance in contexts involving divine and human choice. Its first appearance in Philippians 1:22 demonstrates Paul’s internal struggle between two good options – continuing in ministry or departing to be with Christ.

The word carries special weight in passages about God’s sovereign choice and human responsibility. Its usage often highlights the serious nature of spiritual decisions and their eternal consequences.

• “Yet I do not know what I shall choose [αἱρέω]” Philippians 1:22
• “God chose [αἱρέω] you from the beginning” 2 Thessalonians 2:13
• “Moses… choosing [αἱρέω] rather to endure ill-treatment” Hebrews 11:25

Cultural Insights

In ancient Greek society, the concept of choice (αἱρέω) was deeply connected to the idea of personal honor and civic duty. Citizens would use this word when describing their participation in democratic processes, particularly in Athens where public service was seen as a noble calling.

The word carried significant weight in legal contexts, where judges would “choose” or “determine” verdicts, highlighting the gravity and finality of their decisions. This legal background enriches our understanding of divine choice and judgment in biblical contexts.

Theological Significance

The use of αἱρέω in Scripture beautifully illustrates the interplay between divine sovereignty and human responsibility. When applied to God’s actions, it emphasizes His purposeful and deliberate choice in salvation and calling, as seen in 2 Thessalonians 2:13.

The word also appears in contexts highlighting human choice, particularly in matters of spiritual significance. Moses’ choice to suffer with God’s people rather than enjoy temporal pleasures (Hebrews 11:25) exemplifies how our choices reflect our faith and values.

Personal Application

Every day, believers face choices that shape their spiritual journey. Understanding αἱρέω reminds us that our choices matter – they reflect our values, demonstrate our faith, and impact our testimony. Like Moses, we’re called to choose God’s way over worldly comfort.

This word challenges us to make deliberate, thoughtful decisions aligned with God’s will, recognizing that our choices have eternal significance. It encourages us to weigh our options carefully and choose what honors Him.

Related Words

• ἐκλέγομαι (eklegomai) – to select, choose out, elect (specifically emphasizes selection from among options) See G1586
• προαιρέομαι (proaireomai) – to choose deliberately, prefer (adds element of premeditation) See G4255
• διαιρέω (diaireo) – to divide, distribute (related root but different emphasis) See G1244
• καθαιρέω (kathaireo) – to take down, demolish (compound form with different meaning) See G2507

Did you Know?

• The word αἱρέω influenced the development of the term “heresy” (αἵρεσις), which originally meant simply “choice” or “school of thought” before acquiring its negative connotation in ecclesiastical contexts.
• In modern Greek, derivatives of αἱρέω are still used in political contexts, particularly in words related to elections and voting, maintaining its ancient connection to important decision-making.
• The mathematical term “algorithm” has a distant etymological connection to αἱρέω, reflecting the systematic process of making choices in problem-solving.

Remember This

Every choice we make echoes in eternity – αἱρέω reminds us that our decisions, like Moses’, reveal what we truly value and whom we truly serve.