Brief Overview of ῥιζόω (Strong’s G4492: rhizoō)

Strong’s G4492: A verb meaning “to cause to take root” or “to firmly establish,” derived from ῥίζα (root). In the New Testament, it appears in metaphorical contexts describing spiritual establishment and growth, particularly emphasizing believers being rooted in Christ’s love and truth.

U- Unveiling the Word

Ῥιζόω expresses the vital process of becoming deeply established, particularly in spiritual matters. In its New Testament usage, it metaphorically describes the essential foundation of being rooted in Christ and His love. Early church fathers frequently employed this term to discuss spiritual formation and the development of Christian character. Today, it continues to illustrate the importance of deep spiritual roots in Christ for stability, growth, and fruitfulness in the Christian life.

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N – Necessary Information

• Greek Word: ῥιζόω, rhizoō, /hrid-zo-oh/
• Detailed pronunciation: hrid-ZO-oh (with emphasis on second syllable)
• Part of Speech: Verb

Etymology:

• Root noun: ῥίζα (root)
• Verb formation suffix: -όω (indicates making or causing)
• Denominative verb (formed from noun)
• Indicates process of establishing roots

D – Defining Meanings

• To cause to take root
• To establish firmly
• To strengthen with roots
• To make stable or secure

For compound words:
This is not a compound word but a denominative verb formation.

Translation Options:

• “to root” – basic meaning of the process
• “to establish firmly” – emphasizing the result
• “to ground deeply” – highlighting the thoroughness

E – Exploring Similar Words

• θεμελιόω (themelioō) /them-el-ee-oh-oh/ – to lay a foundation
  See G2311
• στηρίζω (stērizō) /stay-rid-zo/ – to establish, strengthen
  See G4741

R – Reviewing the Word’s Morphology

Morphological features as a verb:

• Tense: Present, Perfect (in NT usage)
• Voice: Active, Passive
• Mood: Participle, Indicative
• Person: First, Second, Third
• Number: Singular, Plural

Example conjugations:

• Present passive participle: ῥιζούμενος
• Perfect passive participle: ἐῤῥιζωμένος

S – Studying Lexicon Insights

BDAG emphasizes its metaphorical usage in Christian growth. Thayer’s notes its connection to spiritual establishment. LSJ provides examples from agricultural contexts. Vine’s highlights its importance in Christian stabilization. Strong’s connects it to the concept of causative rooting. Moulton and Milligan document its use in agricultural papyri.

T – Tracing the Scriptures

First appearance:
“so that Christ may dwell in your hearts through faith—that you, being [ῥιζόω] rooted and grounded in love,” Ephesians 3:17

Additional References:
Colossians 2:7

A – Analyzing Classical Usage

N – Noteworthy Summary

Ῥιζόω powerfully illustrates the transformative process of becoming established in Christ. It proclaims the good news that King Jesus provides the essential foundation for spiritual life and growth. This word reminds us that true stability and fruitfulness come only through being deeply rooted in His love and truth.

D – Did You Know?

1. The verb form specifically emphasizes the process rather than just the state of having roots.
2. Ancient agricultural writers used this term technically for proper planting techniques.
3. Early Christian mystics used this word to describe the soul’s union with Christ.

Strong’s G4492: A verb meaning “to cause to take root” or “to firmly establish,” derived from ῥίζα (root). In the New Testament, it appears in metaphorical contexts describing spiritual establishment and growth, particularly emphasizing believers being rooted in Christ’s love and truth.

Part of speech: Verb

Tags: root, establish, spiritual growth, foundation, stability, Christ’s love, spiritual formation, grounding, Christian maturity, faith development, spiritual stability​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​