Brief Overview of πεζεύω (Strong’s G3978: pezeuō)
Strong’s G3978: From πεζός (on foot); to travel by land, specifically to go on foot. Used in Acts to describe Paul’s intentional choice to walk while his companions sailed. Demonstrates the apostle’s determination and physical engagement in ministry, often choosing the more demanding route.
U- Unveiling the Word
Πεζεύω describes the deliberate act of traveling by foot, contrasting with sea travel. In Acts, it shows Paul’s commitment to ministry, willing to take the more strenuous path. Early church writers saw this as exemplifying apostolic dedication and humility. Today, it reminds us that following Christ sometimes requires choosing the harder path and engaging physically in ministry.
N – Necessary Information
- Greek Word: πεζεύω, pezeuō, [pe-DZEU-oh]
- Detailed pronunciation: peh-DZEV-oh
- Part of Speech: Verb
Join the coffee club to enjoy an ad-free experience and add your voice to this discussion.
Etymology:
- Root: πεζός (on foot)
- Suffix: -εύω (verb formation)
- Related to πούς (foot)
- Forms verb of walking action
D – Defining Meanings
- To travel by land
- To go on foot
- To journey by walking
- To make one’s way by land
For compound words: Not applicable as this is a derived verb
Translation Options:
- To go by land – Emphasizing mode of travel
- To walk – Simple action
- To journey on foot – Comprehensive meaning
E – Exploring Similar Words
- περιπατέω [peripateō, pe-ree-pa-TEH-oh] – to walk around
- πορεύομαι [poreuomai, po-REV-oh-my] – to travel
- ὁδοιπορέω [hodoiporeō, ho-doi-po-REH-oh] – to journey
R – Reviewing the Word’s Morphology
Verb features:
- Present Active: πεζεύω
- Future: πεζεύσω
- Aorist: ἐπέζευσα
- Perfect: πεπέζευκα
Shows:
- Regular -εύω conjugation
- Active voice usage
- Continuous aspect possible
- Cross-references: πεζός (pedestrian)
S – Studying Lexicon Insights
BDAG emphasizes land travel context. Thayer’s notes its contrast with sea travel. LSJ traces military usage. Vine’s highlights its single NT occurrence. Moulton and Milligan show commercial travel contexts.
T – Tracing the Scriptures
First appearance:
“Then we went ahead to the ship and sailed to Assos, there intending to take Paul on board; for so he had given orders, intending himself to go on foot [πεζεύω].” (Acts 20:13)
Additional References:
No other biblical references
A – Analyzing Classical Usage
| Author: Work | Text |
|---|---|
| Xenophon: Anabasis | “The army traveled by land [πεζεύω] through the region.” |
| Polybius: History | “They chose to march [πεζεύω] along the coast.” |
| Strabo: Geography | “One can travel by foot [πεζεύω] across this isthmus.” |
N – Noteworthy Summary
Πεζεύω illustrates how following Christ often means taking the path of greater effort. Like Paul choosing to walk while others sailed, we’re called to demonstrate commitment through actions, not just words. This encourages us that physical engagement in ministry has spiritual significance.
D – Did You Know?
- Used in military contexts for forced marches
- Common in travel accounts contrasting land/sea routes
- Became metaphor for Christian discipleship effort
Strong’s G3978: From πεζός (on foot); to travel by land, specifically to go on foot. Used in Acts to describe Paul’s intentional choice to walk while his companions sailed. Demonstrates the apostle’s determination and physical engagement in ministry, often choosing the more demanding route.
Part of speech: Verb
Tags: #Travel #PaulJourneys #Walking #Ministry #Commitment #Discipleship #Acts #MissionaryWork #PhysicalEffort #Dedication
This page is made possible by the generosity of coffee club members. Buy a coffee to show your support.
Add your first comment to this post