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Unveiling the Word

Understanding Greek words is vital in biblical studies because each term can carry rich theological implications and cultural connotations. The Greek word κληρόω (klēroō) is particularly significant as it relates to concepts of inheritance, divine allotment, and spiritual blessings in the New Testament. This term helps readers grasp the deeper meanings of God’s promises and the spiritual inheritance of believers. In the broader context of ancient Greek culture, it also reflects practices of casting lots and assigning portions, underscoring themes of divine providence and selection.

Necessary Information

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Greek Word: κληρόω, transliterated as klēroō [klay-ROH-oh].

Etymology: The word κληρόω derives from the root word κλῆρος (klēros), meaning “lot” or “inheritance.” It is formed from the noun κλῆρος, which itself stems from the verb κλάω (klao), meaning “to break” or “to divide.” In ancient Greek contexts, κλῆρος referred to the practice of dividing land or possessions by lot, often believed to be directed by divine will.

Part of Speech: Verb. As a verb, κληρόω follows the standard conjugation patterns of ancient Greek and appears in various forms depending on tense, voice, and mood. It can occur in the active or passive voice and is used in different tenses to describe the act of assigning or allotting an inheritance or portion.

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Defining Meanings

1. To Assign by Lot: The primary meaning of κληρόω is “to assign by lot” or “to allot.” This carries the sense of distribution based on divine decision or fate, a practice commonly used in both secular and religious contexts.
2. To Make an Heir: The verb can also mean “to make someone an heir,” especially in a spiritual or theological sense. It implies being chosen or appointed to receive an inheritance.
3. To Obtain an Inheritance: Another closely related meaning is “to obtain an inheritance.” This reflects the outcome of the allotment process where one receives a share, whether materially or spiritually.

Exploring Similar Words

1. Κληρονόμος (klēronomos) [klay-ron-OM-os]: Refers to “heir” or “one who inherits.” While κληρόω focuses on the act of allotting or inheriting, κληρονόμος describes the person who receives the inheritance.
2. Κληρονομία (klēronomia) [klay-ron-om-EE-ah]: Means “inheritance” or “possession.” It differs from κληρόω in that it specifically refers to the actual inheritance rather than the process of assigning or receiving it.
3. Διαθήκη (diathēkē) [dee-ah-THAY-kay]: This word means “covenant” or “testament.” While it can involve inheritance, it emphasizes the legal or contractual arrangement rather than the act of distribution by lot.

Reviewing the Word’s Morphology

Tense, Voice, Mood:
Κληρόω, being a verb, is conjugated in various tenses, voices, and moods, which affect its meaning and usage.

• Present Tense: κληρόω (I allot/make an heir)
• Aorist Tense: ἐκλήρωσα (I allotted/made an heir)
• Perfect Tense: κεκλήρωμαι (I have been allotted/made an heir)

Conjugation Table (Present Indicative):

For more on Greek verb conjugation, Click here for a beginners guide to reading Greek.

Studying Lexicon Insights

The word κληρόω appears in the New Testament with deep theological implications, particularly in Ephesians 1:11, where it speaks of believers being “predestined according to the plan” of God, underscoring God’s sovereign choice in granting inheritance to His people. Lexicons explore its usage in both secular and sacred contexts, where it denotes divine selection, inheritance, and destiny. In classical literature, it is connected with practices of allotment in both civic and religious settings. This overview synthesizes insights from BDAG, Thayer’s, LSJ, Vine’s, Strong’s, LEH, and Moulton and Milligan.

Tracing Related Scriptures

1. Ephesians 1:11: “In him we have obtained an inheritance [κληρόω], having been predestined according to the purpose of him who works all things according to the counsel of his will.”
2. Colossians 1:12: “Giving thanks to the Father, who has qualified you to share in the inheritance [κληρόω] of the saints in light.”

Analyzing Classical Usage

Noteworthy Summary

The Greek word κληρόω provides profound insights into biblical themes of divine inheritance and selection. As a verb, it carries the meaning of assigning or obtaining an inheritance, which is foundational to understanding passages that discuss God’s promises to His people. The word’s usage in both New Testament and classical contexts highlights its multifaceted nature, blending legal, spiritual, and cultural elements.

Did You Know?

1. The practice of casting lots, reflected in the word κληρόω, was not only used in Israel but also common in Greek and Roman cultures to determine divine will or distribute resources.
2. The word κληρόω provides a theological backdrop for understanding Christian ideas of predestination and divine election.
3. In Ephesians 1:11, the term is pivotal in illustrating the concept of believers being chosen and predestined by God’s sovereign plan.