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Unveiling the Word

Understanding Greek words is essential for Biblical studies as they often encapsulate significant theological and cultural meanings. The word ὀργίζω (orgizō) is particularly notable, appearing in the New Testament, including Matthew 5:22, where it conveys the concept of anger. This term provides insights into the moral teachings of Jesus and the nature of human emotions in relation to divine expectations. By examining ὀργίζω, scholars and readers can gain a deeper understanding of how early Christians viewed anger and its implications for ethical behavior, reflecting broader ancient Greek cultural attitudes toward emotions.

Necessary Information

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Greek Word: ὀργίζω (orgizō) [or-GHEE-zoh]

Etymology: The term ὀργίζω is derived from the noun ὀργή (orgē), meaning “anger” or “wrath.” This relationship highlights the verb’s focus on the action of becoming angry or expressing anger.

Part of Speech: Verb. It is a transitive verb, typically indicating the act of provoking or stirring up anger.

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

Defining Meanings

To Become Angry: The primary meaning of ὀργίζω is “to become angry.” It emphasizes the process of developing an emotional response of anger, often triggered by perceived injustice or wrongdoing.

To Provoke Anger: In addition, ὀργίζω can mean “to provoke anger,” suggesting that the word carries an active sense of inciting anger in oneself or others. This usage is relevant in contexts where one’s actions lead to anger or resentment.

To Stir Up: The term can also imply “to stir up” emotions, not limited to anger but potentially encompassing a broader emotional response. This aspect highlights how the verb connects to the dynamics of interpersonal relationships and social situations.

Exploring Similar Words

θυμόω (thymóō) [thoo-MOH-oh]: This verb means “to become furious” or “to rage.” While both ὀργίζω and θυμόω relate to anger, θυμόω often conveys a more intense or explosive form of emotional response.

παροργίζω (parorgizō) [par-or-GHEE-zoh]: This term translates to “to provoke” or “to irritate.” It emphasizes a specific action that incites anger in others, often highlighting the relational aspect of anger more than ὀργίζω does.

ἄγριος (ágríos) [AH-gree-os]: This adjective means “wild” or “fierce.” While not a direct synonym, it conveys a sense of uncontrollable emotion, contrasting with the more measured anger implied by ὀργίζω.

Reviewing the Word’s Morphology

As a verb, ὀργίζω exhibits specific morphological features.

Tense, Voice, Mood: ὀργίζω primarily appears in the present tense but can also be found in other tenses such as aorist (indicating a completed action) and perfect (indicating a completed action with ongoing effects). It is used in the active voice and typically in the indicative mood, making statements about actions.

Person and Number: The verb is conjugated according to person (1st, 2nd, 3rd) and number (singular, plural). For example, in the present tense:

• 1st person singular: ὀργίζω (orgizō) — “I become angry”

• 2nd person singular: ὀργίζεις (orgizeis) — “you become angry”

• 3rd person singular: ὀργίζει (orgizei) — “he/she/it becomes angry”

• 1st person plural: ὀργίζομεν (orgizomen) — “we become angry”

Aspect: The verb primarily reflects an imperfective aspect, focusing on the ongoing process of becoming angry rather than a completed action.

For further insights into Greek grammar, Click here for a beginners guide to reading Greek.

Studying Lexicon Insights

Insights from various Greek lexicons reveal the significance of ὀργίζω. BDAG emphasizes its common usage in contexts discussing human emotions and ethical behavior, especially as it pertains to anger and its implications for moral conduct. Thayer’s highlights its role in understanding the emotional responses expected of believers, particularly in light of Jesus’ teachings. LSJ discusses its literary applications, indicating that ὀργίζω captures the intensity of emotional reactions in both personal and communal contexts. Vine’s underscores the moral dimension of anger in the New Testament, noting that it is often discussed in relation to sin and ethical behavior. Moulton and Milligan explore its usage in early Christian texts, showcasing its relevance to discussions about the moral implications of anger. This synthesis demonstrates how ὀργίζω serves as a critical term in understanding the ethical dimensions of emotions in biblical narratives.

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

Tracing Related Scriptures

• Matthew 5:22: “But I say unto you, That whosoever is angry (ὀργίζω) with his brother without a cause shall be in danger of the judgment: and whosoever shall say to his brother, Raca, shall be in danger of the council: but whosoever shall say, Thou fool, shall be in danger of hell fire.”

• Matthew 18:34: “And his lord was wroth (ὀργίζω), and delivered him to the tormentors, till he should pay all that was due unto him.”

• Mark 3:5: “And when he had looked round about on them with anger (ὀργίζω), being grieved for the hardness of their hearts, he saith unto the man, Stretch forth thine hand. And he stretched it out: and his hand was restored whole as the other.”

• John 3:36: “He that believeth on the Son hath everlasting life: and he that believeth not the Son shall not see life; but the wrath (ὀργίζω) of God abideth on him.”

• Ephesians 4:26: “Be ye angry (ὀργίζω), and sin not: let not the sun go down upon your wrath.”

Analyzing Classical Usage

Author Name of Work English Text with the Greek Word

Plato Republic “He became angry (ὀργίζω) at the injustice.”

Aristotle Rhetoric “Anger (ὀργίζω) can lead to just actions.”

Herodotus Histories “The people’s anger (ὀργίζω) was palpable.”

Septuagint Genesis 4:5 “And Cain was very wroth (ὀργίζω), and his countenance fell.”

Septuagint Exodus 32:10 “Now therefore let me alone, that my wrath (ὀργίζω) may wax hot against them.”

Septuagint Psalms 2:12 “Kiss the Son, lest he be angry (ὀργίζω), and ye perish from the way.”

Noteworthy Summary

In summary, the word ὀργίζω (orgizō) is a significant term in both biblical and classical literature, encapsulating concepts of anger and emotional response. Its usage in the New Testament highlights the seriousness of anger, particularly in relation to ethical behavior and divine expectations. By exploring its meanings, morphology, and scriptural references, readers can appreciate how ὀργίζω serves as a lens through which to understand emotional and moral dimensions in biblical narratives, as well as its reflections in ancient Greek culture.

Did You Know?

Ethical Implications: In biblical contexts, anger is often portrayed as a natural human emotion, but it carries significant ethical implications, especially concerning how it can lead to sin.

Philosophical Perspectives: Ancient Greek philosophers often debated the nature of emotions, including anger, considering it a necessary but potentially destructive force if not properly managed.

Cultural Interpretations: Different cultures have varying interpretations of anger, viewing it both as a natural response to injustice and a vice that requires careful control and moderation.