Introduction

Understanding the nuances of Greek words in Biblical studies is crucial for interpreting the New Testament with greater accuracy and depth. The word ἐμπλοκή (emplokē) appears in the New Testament with a specific and impactful meaning. It is a term that relates to the act of braiding or intertwining, often with significant metaphorical implications. This word holds relevance not only in theological studies but also in understanding the cultural and social practices of ancient Greece, especially as they pertain to appearances, such as in the grooming and decoration of hair, which was a notable aspect of Greek culture.

Key Information

• Greek Word: ἐμπλοκή (emplokē) [em-PLOH-kay]
• Etymology: Derived from the root verb ἐμπλέκω (emplekō), which means “to intertwine” or “to braid.” The noun form ἐμπλοκή specifically refers to the result of this action, such as the braiding of hair.
• Part of Speech: Noun (Feminine, First Declension).
• The F.O.G Word Choice: Coming Soon

Primary Meanings

• Braid: The literal meaning of ἐμπλοκή is “a braid,” particularly referring to hair. This use emphasizes the physical act of intertwining strands of hair into a specific style.
• Intricacy or complexity: By extension, the term can also imply something that is complex or intricate, given the detailed nature of braiding.

Similar Words:

• πλέκω (plekō) [PLEH-koh]: A verb meaning “to weave” or “to braid,” often used in a more general sense for weaving materials together.
• κοσμέω (kosmeō) [kos-MEH-oh]: This verb means “to adorn” or “to decorate,” and is often used in contexts involving the beautification of hair or garments, though it does not specifically refer to braiding.

Further Insights:

• Morphology: As a first declension noun, ἐμπλοκή follows the standard pattern of feminine nouns in Ancient Greek. Its endings change to indicate different grammatical cases, which helps determine its role in a sentence.
• Linguistic Features: The word is often used in contexts relating to the outward appearance, particularly in the context of modesty or display, which can have moral or ethical implications in the New Testament.

Lexicon Insights

BDAG:
BDAG highlights that ἐμπλοκή primarily refers to the braiding of hair, particularly in the context of instructions about modesty in women’s appearance as seen in the New Testament.

Thayer’s:
Thayer’s lexicon discusses the use of ἐμπλοκή in relation to the ornamentation of hair, often with a view toward understanding cultural practices regarding women’s adornment in the early Christian communities.

Vine’s:
Vine’s Expository Dictionary points out that ἐμπλοκή is used specifically in the New Testament to emphasize modesty and simplicity, contrasting with the elaborate and often ostentatious hair arrangements that were popular in Greco-Roman society.

LSJ:
The Liddell-Scott-Jones lexicon notes that ἐμπλοκή, while commonly referring to the braiding of hair, can also imply anything that is intricately intertwined or complex, offering a broader application beyond the specific context of hair.

Strong’s Exhaustive Concordance:
Strong’s Concordance emphasizes the direct and literal meaning of ἐμπλοκή as “braiding,” particularly in reference to the braiding of hair, with a focus on the modesty aspect highlighted in New Testament teachings.

Scripture References

• 1 Timothy 2:9 – “Likewise, also that women should adorn themselves in respectable apparel, with modesty and self-control, not with braided hair (ἐμπλοκῆς) and gold or pearls or costly attire.”
• 1 Peter 3:3 – “Do not let your adorning be external—the braiding of hair (ἐμπλοκῆς) and the putting on of gold jewelry, or the clothing you wear.”

Classical Usage

Summary of ἐμπλοκή (G1708: emplokē)

The Greek word ἐμπλοκή (emplokē) primarily refers to the act of braiding hair, a practice deeply rooted in the cultural norms of ancient Greece. In the New Testament, this word is used in discussions about modesty, particularly advising against the excessive or ostentatious adornment of hair, which was common in Greco-Roman society. The term also carries connotations of intricacy and complexity, which can be extended metaphorically to describe other forms of entanglement or intertwining. Understanding this word is essential for interpreting passages that discuss outward appearance and the associated moral implications.

Did You Know?

In ancient Greek culture, elaborate hair braiding was not only a fashion statement but also a sign of social status and wealth. Women of higher status often spent hours having their hair intricately braided, sometimes incorporating gold threads or other ornaments. The New Testament’s use of ἐμπλοκή emphasizes the value of inner beauty and modesty over such external displays.