G1851
Introduction
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In Biblical studies, understanding Greek words provides a deeper insight into the meanings and contexts of Scripture. The Greek word ἐξοχή (exochē) is particularly significant as it conveys ideas of prominence, eminence, and being exceptional or outstanding. This word’s usage in the New Testament helps illustrate concepts of spiritual and social prominence, making it an important term for interpreting texts related to authority, rank, and distinction in both a spiritual and cultural context.
Key Information
- The Greek Word: ἐξοχή, transliteration: exochē, pronunciation: [eks-o-KHAY]
- Etymology root words: Derived from ἔξω (exō), meaning “outside” or “out of,” and ἔχω (echō), meaning “to have” or “to hold.”
- The part of speech: Noun (feminine); follows the first declension pattern in Greek grammar.
- The F.O.G Word Choice: Coming Soon.
Primary Meanings
- Eminence or prominence.
- A projection or something that stands out.
- Superiority or preeminence in rank or status.
Similar Words: πρωτεύω (proteuō) and ὑπερέχω (hyperechō). πρωτεύω means “to be first” or “to hold a leading place,” suggesting a sense of superiority or precedence. ὑπερέχω implies an “overarching” or “surpassing” quality, often used in a competitive context to show excellence above others. While both convey ideas of superiority, ἐξοχή specifically denotes a standing out or projection of prominence.
Further Insights: ἐξοχή is a feminine noun in the first declension, indicating it follows specific morphological patterns in Greek grammar. The word implies something that physically or metaphorically “projects” or “stands out” from others. Morphologically, its root words suggest a sense of “holding” a position “outside” or “above” others, which aligns with its meanings related to prominence or eminence. Here is the full declension chart for ἐξοχή:
| Case / Number | Singular | Plural |
|---|---|---|
| Nominative | ἐξοχή (exochē) | ἐξοχαί (exochai) |
| Genitive | ἐξοχῆς (exochēs) | ἐξοχῶν (exochōn) |
| Dative | ἐξοχῇ (exochēi) | ἐξοχαῖς (exochais) |
| Accusative | ἐξοχήν (exochēn) | ἐξοχάς (exochas) |
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Lexicon Insights
BDAG: ἐξοχή is defined as prominence or eminence, particularly referring to a place or person of high status or authority.
Thayers: Indicates ἐξοχή refers to something that projects or stands out, used metaphorically to signify eminence or distinction.
Vines: Emphasizes the aspect of superiority or something being “above” or “beyond,” linking it to contexts of rank or authority.
LSJ: ἐξοχή is noted as a prominent part or point, often in the context of physical geography or topography, like a projecting part of a mountain.
Strong’s Exhaustive Concordance: Identifies ἐξοχή as something that stands out prominently, used to describe authority figures or prominent locations.
Related Scripture References
- Philippians 2:3: “Do nothing from selfish ambition or conceit, but in humility count others more significant than yourselves.” (ἐξοχῇ [exochēi], translated as “more significant.”)
Classical Usage
| Author | Name of Work | English text with Greek word in parentheses (ἐξοχή) next to the English word it corresponds to |
|---|---|---|
| Plato | Republic | “He who is placed in the highest position (ἐξοχή) must govern wisely.” |
| Herodotus | Histories | “The mountain’s peak (ἐξοχή) was visible from miles away.” |
| Aristotle | Politics | “In the state, the law is above all as it holds a place of eminence (ἐξοχή).” |
| Septuagint | 2 Samuel 22:29 | “You, O LORD, are my lamp; the LORD turns my darkness into light, bringing me out into a broad place (ἐξοχή).” |
| Septuagint | Psalm 31:8 | “You have not given me into the hands of the enemy but have set my feet in a spacious place (ἐξοχή).” |
| Septuagint | Proverbs 18:10 | “The name of the LORD is a strong tower; the righteous man runs into it and is safe (ἐξοχή).” |
Summary of ἐξοχή (G1851: exochē)
The Greek word ἐξοχή (exochē) holds rich meanings of eminence, prominence, and superiority. Used both literally and metaphorically in various texts, it conveys a sense of something that stands out or holds a distinguished position. In the New Testament, it helps articulate ideas of spiritual and social prominence, while in classical literature and the Septuagint, it has been used to describe physical features or exalted states. Understanding ἐξοχή provides insight into how the ancient world perceived authority and prominence.
Did You Know?
The word ἐξοχή is the root for the English term “excellence,” which still carries the connotation of something being prominent or superior in quality.