Brief Overview of πελεκίζω (Strong’s G3990: pelekizō)
Strong’s G3990: From πέλεκυς (axe); to behead with an axe, specifically referring to Roman method of execution. Used in Revelation to describe martyrdom of believers. Historically significant as describing official Roman capital punishment method for non-citizens. Symbolizes ultimate faithfulness to Christ.
U- Unveiling the Word
Πελεκίζω specifically describes execution by beheading with an axe, a Roman method of capital punishment. In Revelation, it appears in describing faithful martyrs who died for their testimony of Christ. Early church writers saw it as emblematic of ultimate Christian witness. Today, it reminds us of the cost of discipleship and the honor of those who gave their lives for faith.
N – Necessary Information
- Greek Word: πελεκίζω, pelekizō, [pel-e-KID-zo]
- Detailed pronunciation: peh-leh-KID-zo
- Part of Speech: Verb
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Etymology:
- From πέλεκυς (axe)
- Suffix: -ίζω (verbal formation)
- Forms verb describing action with axe
- Related to Latin securis
D – Defining Meanings
- To behead with an axe
- To execute by beheading
- To kill by official execution
For compound words: Not applicable as this is a derived verb
Translation Options:
- Behead – Direct meaning
- Execute by axe – Historical context
- Put to death – General meaning
E – Exploring Similar Words
- ἀποκεφαλίζω [apokephalizō, ap-o-kef-a-LID-zo] – to behead generally
- σφάζω [sphazō, SFAD-zo] – to slaughter
- θανατόω [thanatoō, than-a-TO-oh] – to put to death
R – Reviewing the Word’s Morphology
Verb features:
- Present Active: πελεκίζω
- Perfect Passive: πεπελεκισμένος
- Aorist Passive: ἐπελεκίσθην
- Regular -ίζω conjugation
- Cross-references: πέλεκυς (axe)
S – Studying Lexicon Insights
BDAG emphasizes official execution context. Thayer’s notes Roman practice. LSJ traces historical usage. Vine’s highlights martyrdom connection. Moulton and Milligan show legal/technical usage.
T – Tracing the Scriptures
First appearance:
“And I saw the souls of those who had been beheaded [πελεκίζω] for their witness to Jesus and for the word of God.” (Revelation 20:4)
Additional References:
No other biblical references
A – Analyzing Classical Usage
| Author: Work | Text |
|---|---|
| Polybius: Histories | “The rebels were beheaded [πελεκίζω] according to law.” |
| Diodorus: Library | “The criminals were executed [πελεκίζω] with the axe.” |
| Plutarch: Lives | “He ordered them to be beheaded [πελεκίζω].” |
N – Noteworthy Summary
Πελεκίζω stands as a powerful reminder of the ultimate price many paid for their faith in Christ. While describing a brutal death, it also testifies to the victory of faith over fear and the eternal reward awaiting those faithful unto death.
D – Did You Know?
- Specifically referred to Roman non-citizen execution
- Different from sword beheading used for citizens
- Became symbol of martyrdom in early church art
Strong’s G3990: From πέλεκυς (axe); to behead with an axe, specifically referring to Roman method of execution. Used in Revelation to describe martyrdom of believers. Historically significant as describing official Roman capital punishment method for non-citizens. Symbolizes ultimate faithfulness to Christ.
Part of speech: Verb
Tags: #Martyrdom #Execution #RomanHistory #Revelation #Persecution #Faithfulness #ChristianWitness #Beheading #Persecution #UltimateSacrifice
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