Introduction

In the realm of biblical studies, understanding the nuances of Greek words is essential for grasping the full meaning and depth of the New Testament scriptures. The Greek word ἐκνεύω (Strong’s G1593) is one such term that, although not widely used in the New Testament, offers significant insight into the actions and intentions of individuals within the text. This word, which can be translated as “to turn aside” or “to withdraw,” captures a physical movement that often carries metaphorical or moral implications. Its study provides valuable context for understanding not only the narrative itself but also the cultural and philosophical attitudes of ancient Greek society, particularly in how one responds to threats, danger, or moral dilemmas.

Key Information

ἐκνεύω (ekneúō) [ἐκνεύω]

• Etymology: The word is a combination of “ἐκ” (ek-, meaning “out of” or “from”) and “νεύω” (neúō, meaning “to nod” or “to incline”). Together, they form a verb that conveys the idea of moving out of the way or withdrawing.
• Part of Speech: Verb (active voice)
• The F.O.G Word Choice: Coming Soon

Primary Meanings

• To turn aside: This meaning implies a physical action where one moves out of the direct path, often to avoid something or someone.
• To withdraw: This connotation carries the idea of pulling back or retreating, either from a physical space or from an engagement, such as a confrontation.
• To evade: A more specific application of the word, often implying an intentional action to avoid danger, confrontation, or responsibility.

Similar Words:

• ἀναχωρέω (anachōréō) [an-a-kho-REH-oh], meaning “to withdraw” or “to retire,” shares a similar connotation but often implies a more strategic or planned retreat.
• ἐκφεύγω (ekpheúgō) [ek-FYOO-goh], meaning “to escape,” also relates to the idea of evasion, but it emphasizes the urgency or necessity of the action rather than the simple act of turning aside.

Further Insights:

• Morphology: The verb ἐκνεύω is derived from the prefix “ἐκ-” (ek-) and the verb “νεύω” (neúō), which literally translates to “nodding out” or “moving aside.” The compound nature of the word suggests an intentional, directed action, rather than a casual or unplanned movement.
• Linguistic Features: The word’s usage often occurs in contexts where avoidance or evasion is key. It highlights the moral and ethical considerations of choosing to “turn aside” from something, whether it be danger, confrontation, or a challenging moral decision.

Lexicon Insights

BDAG: ἐκνεύω is defined as “to turn aside” or “to withdraw,” emphasizing the physical action of moving out of the way or avoiding something. The entry notes that the term is relatively rare in the New Testament but carries significant metaphorical weight when it does appear.

Thayers: Thayer’s lexicon describes ἐκνεύω as “to evade” or “to shun,” particularly in the context of avoiding a situation that might be morally or physically dangerous.

Vines: In Vine’s Expository Dictionary, ἐκνεύω is noted for its implications of strategic withdrawal, often with the intent of avoiding conflict or danger. The word is associated with both physical and metaphorical movements.

LSJ: The Liddell-Scott-Jones lexicon lists ἐκνεύω under “to turn aside” and “to withdraw,” with examples from classical Greek texts where the word is used to describe both literal and figurative actions of evasion.

Strongs Exhaustive Concordance: Strong’s Concordance defines ἐκνεύω as “to turn aside” or “to avoid,” providing references to its limited but meaningful use in the New Testament.

Scripture References:

• Luke 5:16 – “But Jesus often withdrew (ἐκνεύω) to lonely places and prayed.”
• Hebrews 10:38 – “But my righteous one will live by faith. And I take no pleasure in the one who shrinks back (ἐκνεύω).”

Classical Usage

Summary of ἐκνεύω (G1593: ekneúō)

The Greek verb ἐκνεύω (G1593) is a significant term that conveys the action of turning aside, withdrawing, or evading. While its occurrences in the New Testament are few, its implications are profound, as it often highlights moments of strategic retreat or moral decision-making. The word’s etymology, combining “ἐκ-” (out of) and “νεύω” (to nod or incline), underscores the deliberate nature of the action. Understanding ἐκνεύω enriches our comprehension of the behaviors and choices depicted in biblical narratives, revealing the cultural and ethical frameworks within which these decisions were made.

Did You Know?

The word ἐκνεύω was often used in ancient Greek military contexts to describe the action of soldiers strategically withdrawing from battle to avoid unnecessary casualties. This usage emphasizes the deliberate and tactical nature of the action, highlighting the importance of discretion and wisdom in moments of conflict.