Introduction

Understanding Greek words in biblical studies is vital for unlocking the meanings and contexts of New Testament texts. The Greek word θιγγάνω (thiggánō) is particularly significant because it means “to touch” or “to handle,” often in contexts involving purity laws, sacred objects, or defilement. This word appears in passages that discuss the concept of holiness and cleanliness, making it crucial for interpreting instructions and principles in the New Testament. By examining the usage of θιγγάνω, we gain a better understanding of ancient Greek culture, Jewish ritual practices, and the theological implications of contact with the sacred or the profane.

Key Information

• The Greek Word: θιγγάνω (thiggánō) [theeg-GAH-noh]
• Etymology: Derived from the root θιγγ- (thigg-), which means “to touch” or “to handle.” The term carries connotations of coming into contact with something, often with caution or restriction.
• Part of Speech: Verb; used to describe the act of touching, handling, or coming into contact with something.
• Grammatical Details: Verb; conjugated in various forms depending on tense, voice, and mood.
• The F.O.G Word Choice: Coming Soon

Primary Meanings

• To touch: To come into contact with something, either physically or metaphorically.
• To handle: To take hold of or manipulate something, often carefully.
• To reach: To make physical contact with, implying a deliberate action.

Similar Words: ἅπτομαι (háptomai) [HAP-toh-mai] is another Greek verb meaning “to touch” or “to cling to.” While θιγγάνω often has a neutral or negative connotation related to defilement or caution (such as touching something unclean), ἅπτομαι can imply a more intimate or purposeful touch. ἁψίς (hapsís) [HAP-sis], another related term, means “touch” or “handle” but is typically used in more technical or mechanical contexts, unlike the nuanced use of θιγγάνω in religious or ritual settings.

Further Insights: As a verb, θιγγάνω follows typical conjugation patterns for Greek verbs, changing its form based on tense, voice, and mood. Below is a table with the present indicative active form of θιγγάνω:

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Lexicon Insights

• BDAG: θιγγάνω is defined as “to touch” or “to handle,” often in the context of coming into contact with something that could cause defilement according to Jewish purity laws. BDAG highlights its use in the New Testament, particularly in passages that caution against improper contact with unclean or sacred objects.
• Thayer’s Lexicon: Thayer’s describes θιγγάνω as “to touch, to handle,” with an emphasis on its usage in contexts where contact with something could have religious or ceremonial implications. It is often used to highlight the boundaries set by the law regarding what is pure or impure.
• Vine’s Expository Dictionary: Vine’s notes that θιγγάνω is employed to convey the idea of reaching out and touching something, often with a sense of risk or prohibition. The dictionary points out its use in biblical passages that discuss what should or should not be touched to avoid ritual impurity.
• LSJ (Liddell-Scott-Jones): The LSJ lexicon provides a broad overview of θιγγάνω, from its basic meaning of “to touch” or “to handle” in everyday contexts to its specific use in philosophical and religious literature, where it can imply a careful or forbidden contact.
• Strong’s Exhaustive Concordance: G2345. Strong’s defines θιγγάνω as “to touch, to handle,” noting its application in New Testament passages dealing with purity, holiness, and the restrictions on touching sacred or defiled items.

Related Scripture References

• Colossians 2:21: “Touch (θιγγήσῃς) not; taste not; handle not; Which all are to perish with the using; after the commandments and doctrines of men.”
• Hebrews 12:20: “For they could not endure that which was commanded, And if so much as a beast touch (θιγγήσῃ) the mountain, it shall be stoned, or thrust through with a dart.”

Classical Usage

Summary of θιγγάνω (G2345)

The Greek verb θιγγάνω (thiggánō) means “to touch” or “to handle” and is used in both literal and metaphorical contexts in the New Testament and classical literature. In biblical teachings, it often refers to the act of touching something with a connotation of caution or prohibition, especially in matters of ritual purity and holiness. The term appears in key New Testament passages where it is used to instruct believers about the dangers of coming into contact with what is unclean or forbidden. Understanding θιγγάνω helps us interpret biblical regulations and their spiritual significance, providing insight into ancient Jewish and Greek practices concerning sacredness and defilement.

Did You Know?

The concept of θιγγάνω was significant not only in Jewish religious practices but also in Greek philosophy and culture. It was often associated with the idea of maintaining purity or avoiding defilement, both physically and morally. The usage of θιγγάνω reflects a broader cultural emphasis on the sacredness of certain objects, spaces, and actions, highlighting how deeply the concepts of purity and holiness were embedded in the ancient world.