Brief Overview of πειράω (Strong’s G3987: peiraō)

Strong’s G3987: From πεῖρα; to attempt, try, or endeavor. In NT usage, appears in middle voice meaning “to make an attempt” or “to try.” Significant in Acts describing Paul’s attempts to join the disciples, showing the challenge of early Christian community integration.

U- Unveiling the Word

Πειράω represents intentional effort or attempt, particularly in contexts of seeking fellowship or accomplishing a goal. In Acts, it appears at a crucial moment in Paul’s early ministry, highlighting both his determination and the disciples’ initial hesitation. Early church writers saw it as exemplifying perseverance in seeking Christian community. Today, it reminds us of the importance of persistent effort in building church relationships.

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N – Necessary Information

• Greek Word: πειράω, peiraō, [pay-RAH-oh]
• Detailed pronunciation: pay-RAH-oh
• Part of Speech: Verb

Etymology:

• Root: πεῖρα (trial, attempt)
• Verbal form directly from root
• Related to Latin peritus (experienced)

D – Defining Meanings

• To attempt
• To try
• To endeavor
• To make trial of

For compound words: Not applicable as this is a primary verb

Translation Options:

• Attempt – Emphasizing purposeful action
• Try – General effort
• Endeavor – Formal attempt

E – Exploring Similar Words

• πειράζω [peirazō, pay-RAD-zo] – to test/tempt
• ἐπιχειρέω [epicheireo, ep-ee-khay-REH-oh] – to put hand to
• δοκιμάζω [dokimazō, do-kee-MAD-zo] – to test

R – Reviewing the Word’s Morphology

Verb features:

• Present Middle: πειράομαι
• Imperfect: ἐπειρώμην
• Future: πειράσομαι
• Aorist: ἐπειρασάμην

Shows:

• Middle voice usage
• Continuous aspect possible
• Personal involvement emphasis
• Cross-references: πεῖρα (trial), πειρασμός (testing)

S – Studying Lexicon Insights

BDAG emphasizes its middle voice usage. Thayer’s notes its connection to experience. LSJ traces development in attempt contexts. Vine’s highlights its single NT occurrence. Moulton and Milligan show common usage in personal efforts.

T – Tracing the Scriptures

First appearance:
“And when Saul had come to Jerusalem, he tried [πειράω] to join the disciples; but they were all afraid of him, and did not believe that he was a disciple.” (Acts 9:26)

Additional References:
No other biblical references

A – Analyzing Classical Usage

N – Noteworthy Summary

Πειράω illustrates that following Christ often requires persistent effort, especially in building community. Like Paul’s determination to join the disciples despite initial rejection, we’re encouraged to persevere in seeking fellowship and serving God’s purposes.

D – Did You Know?

1. Often used in military contexts for siege attempts
2. Common in philosophical writings about seeking truth
3. Became technical term in early church for catechumen efforts

Strong’s G3987: From πεῖρα; to attempt, try, or endeavor. In NT usage, appears in middle voice meaning “to make an attempt” or “to try.” Significant in Acts describing Paul’s attempts to join the disciples, showing the challenge of early Christian community integration.

Part of speech: Verb

Tags: #Attempt #Effort #ChristianCommunity #PaulMinistry #Perseverance #Fellowship #EarlyChurch #Discipleship #Integration #Acts​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​