Understanding ἀναθεωρέω (anatheōreō) Strong’s G333: The Profound Art of Careful Observation and Deep Contemplation

Pronunciation Guide: an-ath-eh-o-reh’-o (ἀν-α-θε-ω-ρέ-ω)

Basic Definition

Strong’s G333: A compound verb meaning “to look at carefully, observe accurately, or consider contemplatively.” The word implies a thorough examination that goes beyond surface-level observation, suggesting careful scrutiny and deliberate contemplation. It carries the sense of reviewing something with careful attention to detail, often leading to deeper understanding or insight.

Etymology and Morphology

• Compound verb formed from:
• ἀνά (ana) – “up, again, or back”
• θεωρέω (theōreō) – “to look at, behold, contemplate”
• Primary usage in narrative and teaching passages
• Appears in contexts of spiritual discernment and careful observation
• Used in classical Greek for scientific observation and philosophical contemplation

ἀναθεωρέω Morphology:

• ἀναθεωρῶ (present active indicative) – I observe carefully
• ἀναθεωρήσω (future active indicative) – I will observe carefully
• ἀναθεωρῶν (present active participle) – observing carefully
• ἀναθεωροῦντες (present active participle plural) – carefully observing

Origin & History

The term emerged in classical Greek literature as a technical term for systematic observation and analysis. Xenophon used it in his “Memorabilia” when describing Socrates’ method of careful examination of philosophical concepts. The word gained prominence in Hellenistic literature, particularly in philosophical and scientific contexts where precise observation was crucial.

In the Septuagint, while the exact form ἀναθεωρέω is rare, related compounds of θεωρέω appear in contexts of divine revelation and spiritual insight. The Jewish historian Josephus employed it when describing careful examination of historical events and religious artifacts.

The early church fathers, particularly Origen in his “Contra Celsum,” used ἀναθεωρέω when discussing the deep contemplation of scripture and spiritual truths. John Chrysostom employed it in his homilies to describe the careful examination of biblical texts.

Expanded Definitions & Translation Options

• Careful and systematic observation leading to deeper understanding
• Contemplative examination that reveals previously unnoticed details
• Repeated viewing with increasing insight and comprehension

ἀναθεωρέω Translation Options:

• “To observe carefully” – Emphasizes the systematic nature of the observation
• “To examine thoroughly” – Highlights the comprehensive nature of the investigation
• “To consider contemplatively” – Stresses the reflective aspect of the observation
• “To look at again and again” – Captures the repetitive nature implied by the ἀνά prefix
• “To study intently” – Conveys the focused attention implied in the word

Biblical Usage

In the New Testament, ἀναθεωρέω appears in contexts where careful observation leads to spiritual insight or deeper understanding. Its most notable occurrence is in Acts 17:23, where Paul uses it to describe his thorough examination of the Athenians’ objects of worship. This usage demonstrates how careful observation can lead to meaningful spiritual dialogue and understanding.

The word appears again in Hebrews 13:7, where believers are encouraged to carefully observe the outcome of their leaders’ way of life. This usage suggests a thoughtful examination that goes beyond mere observation to include reflection on the spiritual implications and practical applications of what is observed.

Biblical Cross References:

• “For as I was passing through and carefully observing [ἀναθεωρῶν] your objects of worship…” Acts 17:23
• “Remember those who led you… carefully observing [ἀναθεωροῦντες] the outcome of their conduct.” Hebrews 13:7

Cultural Insights

In ancient Greek philosophical schools, particularly among the Peripatetics and Stoics, ἀναθεωρέω represented a crucial method of learning through careful observation and repeated contemplation. This practice was deeply embedded in the Hellenistic educational system, where students were taught to examine nature, texts, and ideas with systematic attention to detail.

The word’s use in Acts 17:23 reflects Paul’s sophisticated engagement with Greek intellectual culture. By using this term, he demonstrates his ability to engage with Hellenistic thought while maintaining his Jewish theological framework. This careful observation of the Athenians’ religious artifacts shows respect for their culture while preparing the ground for presenting the Gospel.

Theological Significance

The use of ἀναθεωρέω in Scripture reveals God’s desire for His people to engage in careful, thoughtful examination of both spiritual truths and their practical outworking. This isn’t merely academic study but a spiritually discerning observation that leads to transformation and deeper understanding of His truth.

In Acts 17, Paul’s careful observation of the Athenians’ religiosity demonstrates how God can use our thoughtful engagement with culture as a bridge for sharing the Gospel. It shows that careful observation, when guided by the Holy Spirit, can reveal opportunities for meaningful spiritual dialogue.

The appearance in Hebrews 13:7 connects careful observation with spiritual discipleship, suggesting that one aspect of spiritual growth involves thoughtfully examining the lives of mature believers and learning from their example. This reflects God’s design for spiritual formation through both direct teaching and observed example.

Personal Application

When we cultivate the practice of ἀναθεωρέω in our spiritual lives, we move beyond surface-level engagement with Scripture and spiritual matters to a deeper, more transformative interaction. This careful observation can be applied to our Bible study, our examination of God’s work in our lives, and our observation of mature believers’ examples.

In our modern context, where quick glances and superficial scanning often replace careful observation, the concept of ἀναθεωρέω challenges us to slow down and engage more deeply with God’s Word, His work, and His people. This careful observation can lead to profound insights and spiritual growth that might be missed through casual observation.

Related Words

• θεωρέω (theōreō) – to behold, contemplate, observe – More focused on the act of seeing or watching without the intensive examination implied by ἀναθεωρέω. See G2334
• κατανοέω (katanoeō) – to observe fully, understand clearly – Emphasizes perception leading to understanding. See G2657
• σκοπέω (skopeō) – to look at, consider, observe – Focuses on careful attention with a specific goal or purpose. See G4648
• ἐπισκέπτομαι (episkeptomai) – to look upon, visit, inspect – Includes the idea of observation with the purpose of care or oversight. See G1980

Did you Know?

• The prefix ἀνά in ἀναθεωρέω can suggest both repetition and intensity, implying that true understanding often comes through repeated, careful observation rather than a single glance.
• The word’s use in ancient scientific texts influenced the development of the scientific method, particularly in the emphasis on careful, systematic observation before drawing conclusions.
• Modern Greek still uses forms of θεωρέω in words related to theory, theoretical study, and contemplation, showing the enduring influence of this ancient concept of careful observation.

Remember This

ἀναθεωρέω reminds us that true spiritual insight often comes through careful, contemplative observation that goes beyond surface appearances to discover deeper truths about God and His ways.