Introduction

Understanding Greek words is essential for deepening our comprehension of Biblical texts. The Greek word ἐξαγγέλλω (exangellō) is particularly significant as it appears in contexts of proclamation and declaration. This word is relevant for New Testament interpretation, where it is often used to describe the act of making something known or reporting openly. Its use also provides insights into ancient Greek culture, where communication and the announcement of news played crucial roles in society.

Key Information

• The Greek Word: ἐξαγγέλλω (exangellō) [eks-an-GHEL-lo]
• Etymology: Derived from ἐξ (ex), meaning “out of,” and ἀγγέλλω (angellō), meaning “to announce” or “to report.”
• Part of Speech: Verb; used primarily in the middle voice in the New Testament.
• The F.O.G Word Choice: Coming Soon.

Primary Meanings

• To announce or declare openly.
• To report or proclaim something publicly.
• To make known or reveal, particularly in a context that involves communication of important information.

Similar Words: ἀπαγγέλλω (apangellō) [ap-an-GHEL-lo], meaning “to report” or “to bring back a message.” While both ἐξαγγέλλω and ἀπαγγέλλω involve the act of announcing or reporting, ἀπαγγέλλω often has a nuance of conveying a message back to someone, whereas ἐξαγγέλλω emphasizes declaring or proclaiming something outwardly.

Further Insights: ἐξαγγέλλω is a verb commonly found in the middle voice, reflecting an action done with a particular emphasis or intention by the subject. The prefix ἐξ- implies a sense of direction or movement “outward,” enhancing the word’s focus on spreading or broadcasting information. The verb is conjugated in various tenses depending on the context, and its usage can reflect both literal and figurative communication.

Lexicon Insights

BDAG: Describes ἐξαγγέλλω as a verb meaning “to proclaim” or “to declare,” often used in contexts where a public announcement is made. It emphasizes the verb’s middle voice usage, which indicates an action that reflects back upon the subject in terms of the intensity or purpose of the declaration.
Thayer’s: Defines ἐξαγγέλλω as “to declare, report, or make known.” It is often used in the sense of making known a message, typically with an authoritative or formal tone.
Vines: Highlights ἐξαγγέλλω as a key term for public declarations, particularly in New Testament contexts where the preaching of the gospel or revelation of truth is involved.
LSJ: Lists ἐξαγγέλλω as “to announce or publish,” especially in ancient Greek literature where it often carries the connotation of a herald or crier making an official proclamation.
Strong’s Exhaustive Concordance: Notes ἐξαγγέλλω (G1804) as meaning “to declare” or “to inform,” especially in a context where the emphasis is on the act of revealing or making something publicly known.

Scripture References

Classical Usage

Summary of ἐξαγγέλλω (G1804: exangellō)

The Greek word ἐξαγγέλλω (exangellō) is a verb that conveys the idea of declaring, proclaiming, or reporting something publicly. Derived from the roots meaning “out of” and “to announce,” it emphasizes the outward communication of important information. In Biblical and classical Greek literature, ἐξαγγέλλω is often associated with formal announcements, proclamations, or revelations of significant news or divine truth. Its usage in the New Testament provides insight into the ways early Christians communicated their message to the broader world.

Did You Know?

Did you know that ἐξαγγέλλω was used in ancient Greek society by heralds, who were officials responsible for making important public announcements? These heralds played a crucial role in disseminating news across cities, making ἐξαγγέλλω a key term in both civic and religious contexts.