Introduction

Understanding Greek words is crucial for deepening one’s study of the Bible, as these words often carry rich meanings that can significantly impact interpretation. The Greek word ἐξεραυνάω (exeranunao) is particularly significant because it conveys the idea of searching or examining thoroughly. This term is relevant not only for interpreting New Testament passages but also for understanding ancient Greek culture, where thorough inquiry and investigation were highly valued in philosophy, science, and everyday life.

Key Information

• The Greek Word: ἐξεραυνάω, transliterated as exeranunao [ex-er-a-oo-NAH-oh]
• Etymology: Derived from the prefix ἐκ (ek, “out of”) and the verb ἐραυνάω (eraunao, “to search” or “to examine”), suggesting an intensive form of searching or investigation.
• Part of Speech: Verb; primarily active voice, present tense, indicative mood.
• The F.O.G Word Choice: Coming Soon.

Primary Meanings

• To search out thoroughly.
• To examine closely.
• To investigate or scrutinize with care.

Similar Words: ἐραυνάω (eraunao) [er-a-oo-NAH-oh] – While both ἐραυνάω and ἐξεραυνάω refer to searching or examining, ἐξεραυνάω carries a stronger connotation of a more thorough or intense search, emphasizing the depth and completeness of the examination.

Further Insights: The word ἐξεραυνάω is a compound verb that emphasizes a complete or exhaustive search. Its usage in Biblical and classical texts often highlights an intense effort to uncover hidden or obscure truths. The verb form typically indicates continuous action or a process of investigation.
Click here for a beginners guide to reading Greek.

Lexicon Insights

BDAG: Describes ἐξεραυνάω as “to search out thoroughly,” used in contexts where intense examination or scrutiny is required to uncover deeper truths or hidden details.

Thayers: Defines ἐξεραυνάω as “to search diligently,” emphasizing the comprehensive and meticulous nature of the investigation it describes.

Vines: Explains ἐξεραυνάω in relation to its use in Biblical texts, particularly in expressing a divine or human effort to discover or understand hidden things.

LSJ: Lists ἐξεραυνάω as “to examine closely,” a term commonly found in classical literature to describe thorough searches, whether in philosophical inquiries or practical investigations.

Strong’s Exhaustive Concordance: Provides the definition of ἐξεραυνάω as “to search out” or “explore,” linking it to contexts where a deep or exhaustive examination is implied.

Related Scripture References

• 1 Peter 1:10: “Concerning this salvation, the prophets who prophesied about the grace that was to be yours searched [ἐξεραύνησαν] and inquired carefully.”
• John 5:39: “You search [ἐξεραυνᾶτε] the Scriptures because you think that in them you have eternal life; it is these that testify about Me.”

Classical Usage

Summary of ἐξεραυνάω (G1830: exeranunao)

The Greek word ἐξεραυνάω (Strong’s G1830) is a verb meaning “to search out thoroughly” or “to examine closely.” It is used to describe a deep and exhaustive investigation, often applied to searching for knowledge or understanding hidden truths. The term appears in both Biblical and classical Greek literature, where it is employed to express intense scrutiny or detailed inquiry, whether in philosophical, theological, or historical contexts.

Did You Know?

The Greek verb ἐξεραυνάω is often associated with both divine and human efforts to discover hidden knowledge. In the New Testament, it underscores the prophets’ diligent search for understanding the salvation they foretold. In classical literature, philosophers like Plato and Aristotle frequently used the term to denote a rigorous search for truth or first principles, reflecting the intellectual culture of ancient Greece.