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Unveiling the Word

Understanding Greek words is fundamental to Biblical studies because it allows readers to grasp the deeper meanings and nuances of the text. The Greek word λανθάνω (lanthanō), appearing first in Mark 7:24, is particularly significant as it means “to be hidden” or “to escape notice.” This word provides insight into themes of secrecy, obscurity, and unnoticed actions or states in both New Testament contexts and ancient Greek culture. In the New Testament, λανθάνω is used to illustrate moments where actions or persons remain hidden, either literally or metaphorically, which can profoundly affect the interpretation of certain passages.

Necessary Information

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Greek Word: λανθάνω, transliterated as lanthanō [pronounced: lan-THAH-noh].

Etymology: The verb λανθάνω (lanthanō) is derived from Proto-Indo-European roots related to being hidden or escaping detection. It is closely related to the Greek word λήθη (lēthē), meaning “forgetfulness” or “concealment,” which is the source of the English word “lethargy.” This connection emphasizes the sense of slipping from awareness or remaining unnoticed.

Part of Speech: Verb. As a verb, λανθάνω describes an action or state, typically involving concealment, avoidance, or escaping detection. It can be found in different grammatical forms that reflect various aspects, voices, and moods.

The F.O.G Word Choice: Coming Soon.

Defining Meanings

1. To Be Hidden or Concealed: The primary meaning of λανθάνω is “to be hidden” or “to be concealed.” It implies that something is present but not visible or apparent to the observer.

2. To Escape Notice: Another common usage of λανθάνω is “to escape notice,” which conveys that an action or occurrence takes place without anyone being aware of it. This sense is often used metaphorically to describe unnoticed events or intentions.

3. To Act Unseen or Without Being Seen: λανθάνω can also mean “to act without being seen,” which is a more active usage of the term. It reflects the idea of deliberate concealment or actions performed out of sight.

Exploring Similar Words

1. κρύπτω (kryptō) [pronunciation: KRIP-toh]: This verb means “to hide” or “to conceal” and is often used in contexts where something is intentionally covered or kept secret. Unlike λανθάνω, which can suggest an unintentional or natural state of being unnoticed, kryptō typically implies deliberate action.

2. ἀφανίζω (aphanizō) [pronunciation: af-an-EE-zo]: Meaning “to vanish” or “to disappear,” this word is used to describe something that completely goes out of sight. It differs from λανθάνω in that it emphasizes the result of being unseen rather than the process.

3. παραβάλλω (paraballō) [pronunciation: par-AB-al-loh]: This word means “to place beside” or “to compare,” but in some contexts, it can imply a hiding or setting aside action. It differs from λανθάνω as it focuses more on placing out of sight rather than being unnoticed.

Reviewing the Word’s Morphology

Verb Morphology: As a verb, λανθάνω is inflected according to tense, voice, and mood. It often appears in the present, aorist, and perfect tenses. Here is a conjugation table for the Present Indicative Active form:

Click here for a beginners guide to reading Greek.

Studying Lexicon Insights

The word λανθάνω is used in both the New Testament and classical Greek literature to convey the idea of hiddenness or escaping notice. In Mark 7:24, it describes Jesus entering a house and not wanting anyone to know, yet “He could not be hidden” (οὐκ ἠδυνήθη λαθεῖν). This illustrates the paradox of trying to be unnoticed while still being known or discovered. In classical Greek, λανθάνω can refer to hidden emotions, unnoticed actions, or things that remain unknown to others. Theologically, it offers insights into themes of revelation, secrecy, and the divine purpose that cannot be concealed.

This overview synthesizes insights from BDAG, Thayer’s, LSJ, Vine’s, Strong’s, LEH, and Moulton and Milligan.

Tracing Related Scriptures

Mark 7:24: “And from there he arose, and went away to the region of Tyre and Sidon. And he entered a house and would have no one know it; yet he could not be hidden [λανθάνειν].”

Analyzing Classical Usage

Noteworthy Summary

The Greek word λανθάνω (lanthanō) means “to be hidden” or “to escape notice.” It is a versatile verb that captures both literal and metaphorical hiddenness in Biblical and classical contexts. This word plays a vital role in theological discussions about God’s omniscience, human concealment, and the revelation of truth. It serves as a powerful tool for understanding the dynamics of what is seen and unseen, known and unknown, in both divine and human narratives.

Did You Know?

1. λανθάνω (lanthanō) is related to the English word “lethargy,” which describes a state of forgetfulness or unawareness, connecting both physical and mental states of being unnoticed.
2. In Greek mythology, the River Lethe was believed to cause forgetfulness in those who drank from it, reinforcing the theme of hiddenness or things escaping notice.
3. The concept of hiddenness is central to many Biblical stories where God’s plans and purposes are often concealed until the right moment of revelation.