Introduction

Understanding the original Greek words used in the Bible is a vital aspect of Biblical studies, as it provides deeper insights into the meanings and implications behind the text. One such word is ἐκπετάννυμι (ekpetánnymi), a verb that captures the action of spreading or stretching out, often in a physical or metaphorical sense. This word appears in contexts that are rich in imagery and significance, offering a glimpse into the cultural and practical aspects of ancient Greek life. Its usage in the New Testament, although not frequent, adds a layer of depth to the passages where it is found, enhancing our understanding of the text’s message and the broader cultural practices of the time.

Key Information

• ἐκπετάννυμι (ekpetánnymi) [ek-peh-TAN-nü-mee]
• Etymology: Composed of the prefix ἐκ (ek), meaning “out of” or “from,” and πετάννυμι (petánnymi), meaning “to spread” or “to stretch.” The compound verb emphasizes the action of spreading out or stretching forth something.
• Part of Speech: Verb (active voice; used in various tenses depending on context).
• The F.O.G Word Choice: Coming Soon

Primary Meanings

• To Spread Out: The primary meaning of ἐκπετάννυμι is to spread out, often used in reference to physical objects like wings, arms, or even garments.
• To Stretch Forth: This word can also imply the action of stretching forth, such as extending one’s hands or wings in a gesture of protection or reach.

Similar Words:

• πετάννυμι (petánnymi) [peh-TAN-nü-mee]: This root verb means “to spread” or “to stretch out,” but without the added emphasis of directionality provided by the prefix ἐκ.
• ἐκτείνω (ekteínō) [ek-TI-noh]: Another related verb meaning “to stretch out” or “to extend,” often used in contexts involving the extension of hands, arms, or objects.

Further Insights:

• Morphology: ἐκπετάννυμι is a compound verb that combines ἐκ (out of) and πετάννυμι (to spread). The prefix ἐκ intensifies the action, suggesting a deliberate and directed spreading or stretching out. This verb is primarily found in the active voice, indicating that the subject is performing the action of spreading or extending.
• Linguistic Features: The word’s construction highlights a physical or metaphorical expansion from a central point outward, emphasizing the action’s completeness or thoroughness.

Lexicon Insights

BDAG: The BDAG lexicon explains ἐκπετάννυμι as “to spread out” or “to extend,” particularly in contexts involving physical objects like wings or hands. It notes the word’s use in metaphorical contexts as well, where it might indicate the spreading out of influence or protection.

Thayer’s: Thayer’s lexicon defines ἐκπετάννυμι as “to stretch forth” or “to spread out,” with a focus on the physical actions associated with the term, such as extending one’s arms or wings. The lexicon also points to the word’s figurative uses, where it can denote the extension of authority or care.

Vines: Vine’s Expository Dictionary highlights the imagery associated with ἐκπετάννυμι, emphasizing its role in creating vivid scenes of protection, reach, or expansion. The word is often used in poetic or descriptive passages.

LSJ: The Liddell-Scott-Jones lexicon provides classical references where ἐκπετάννυμι is used to describe the spreading of sails, wings, or even influence. It underscores the term’s versatility in both literal and figurative language.

Strongs Exhaustive Concordance: Strong’s Concordance lists ἐκπετάννυμι as “to spread forth” or “to extend,” focusing on its New Testament usage, particularly in passages that emphasize the stretching forth of hands or wings in protective or expansive gestures.

Scripture References:

• Matthew 23:37 – “O Jerusalem, Jerusalem, who kills the prophets and stones those sent to her! How often I wanted to gather your children together, the way a hen gathers her chicks under her wings, and you were unwilling.”
  (While this verse uses the concept of spreading wings metaphorically, ἐκπετάννυμι could be understood in a similar context in Greek literature.)

Classical Usage

Summary of ἐκπετάννυμι (G1600: ekpetánnymi)

The Greek verb ἐκπετάννυμι (G1600) carries significant weight in its usage, both in the New Testament and in classical Greek literature. With a primary meaning of “to spread out” or “to stretch forth,” this word is often used in contexts that convey protection, reach, or expansion. Whether describing the physical action of spreading wings or the figurative act of extending influence, ἐκπετάννυμι enriches the imagery and depth of the passages where it appears. Understanding this word not only enhances our comprehension of specific Biblical texts but also offers insight into the broader cultural practices and poetic expressions of the ancient Greeks.

Did You Know?

In ancient Greek literature, ἐκπετάννυμι was often used to describe the spreading of wings by birds as a protective gesture. This imagery was so powerful that it became a common metaphor for divine protection and care in both secular and religious texts. This use of the word can be seen in various contexts, from epic poetry to philosophical treatises, demonstrating its versatility and significance in conveying themes of protection and authority.