Brief Overview of σοφίζω (Strong’s G4679: sophizō)

Strong’s G4679: A verb meaning “to make wise,” derived from σοφία (wisdom). In biblical usage, particularly emphasizes the process of imparting divine wisdom and understanding. In 2 Timothy 3:15, it specifically relates to Scripture’s power to make one wise unto salvation.

U- Unveiling the Word

Σοφίζω represents the dynamic process of becoming wise or making wise, particularly through divine instruction. Unlike secular Greek usage which could include mere cleverness, the New Testament employs this word specifically in relation to salvation wisdom through Scripture. Its appearance in 2 Timothy 3:15 connects the impartation of wisdom directly to sacred writings and their role in leading to salvation through faith in the Messiah. The early church understood this as emphasizing Scripture’s transformative power in bringing spiritual understanding. Today, it reminds us that true wisdom comes through engagement with God’s Word and leads to salvation.

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N – Necessary Information

• Greek Word: σοφίζω, sophizō, /soˈfi.zɔː/
• Pronunciation Guide: “soh-FEE-zoh”
• Part of Speech: Verb

Etymology:

• Root: σοφ- (soph-) meaning “wise”
• Suffix: -ίζω (-izō) verbalization suffix indicating “to make” or “to cause”
• Derived from σοφία (sophia, “wisdom”)

D – Defining Meanings

• Primary meaning: To make wise
• Secondary meaning: To instruct in wisdom
• Tertiary meaning: To impart understanding

Translation Options:

• To make wise – Most accurate to the causative nature of the verb
• To instruct – Emphasizing the teaching aspect
• To impart wisdom – Highlighting the transformative process

E – Exploring Similar Words

• διδάσκω (didaskō) /diˈdas.kɔː/ – To teach or instruct – See G1321
• νουθετέω (noutheteō) /nu.θeˈte.ɔː/ – To admonish, instruct – See G3560
• παιδεύω (paideuō) /pai̯ˈdeu̯.ɔː/ – To train, educate – See G3811

R – Reviewing the Word’s Morphology

Morphological Features for Verbs:

• Tense: Present, Future, Aorist, Perfect
• Voice: Active, Passive
• Mood: Indicative, Subjunctive, Imperative
• Person: First, Second, Third
• Number: Singular, Plural

The verb changes form based on these features:

• Present Active: σοφίζω (sophizō)
• Aorist Active: ἐσόφισα (esophisa)
• Perfect Passive: σεσόφισμαι (sesophismai)

S – Studying Lexicon Insights

BDAG emphasizes the transformative aspect of σοφίζω in biblical usage. Thayer’s notes its distinction from secular Greek usage in focusing on divine wisdom. LSJ traces its development from classical meaning of “making clever” to biblical “making wise.” Vine’s highlights its unique usage in 2 Timothy regarding Scripture’s role in salvation wisdom. Moulton and Milligan document its usage in contemporary literature.

T – Tracing the Scriptures

First Appearance:
2 Timothy 3:15: “and that from childhood you have known the Holy Scriptures, which are able to make you wise [σοφίζω] for salvation through faith which is in Jesus the Messiah.”

Additional References:
2 Peter 1:16

A – Analyzing Classical Usage

N – Noteworthy Summary

Σοφίζω beautifully captures the transformative power of Scripture to impart divine wisdom leading to salvation. It reminds us that true wisdom isn’t merely intellectual but salvific, finding its fulfillment in faith in Jesus the Messiah. This word proclaims that God’s Word actively works to make us wise unto salvation.

D – Did You Know?

• The word gave rise to the term “sophist” in classical Greek culture
• It appears only twice in the New Testament, both in significant theological contexts
• Early church fathers frequently used this word when discussing Scripture’s transformative power

Strong’s G4679: A verb signifying the process of making wise or imparting wisdom, particularly through divine instruction. In biblical usage, it specifically relates to Scripture’s power to impart salvation wisdom through faith in the Messiah.

Part of speech: Verb

Tags: wisdom, teaching, Scripture, salvation, transformation, education, Timothy, faith, instruction, divine wisdom, Bible study​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​