The Greek word ἀπειλέω (apeileō) means “to threaten” or “to make a threat.” It derives from ἀπειλή (apeilē), which translates to “threat” or “menace.” The verb ἀπειλέω is used to describe the act of threatening someone with harm or adverse consequences. It conveys the notion of making a declaration of impending danger or punishment as a means of coercion or intimidation.

Detailed Overview

1. Strong’s Concordance: According to Strong’s Concordance, ἀπειλέω means “to threaten.” It describes the act of expressing an intention to inflict harm or punishment, usually with the aim of influencing behavior or actions. The term is used in contexts where individuals or authorities issue warnings or threats to ensure compliance or obedience.
2. Bauer-Danker-Arndt-Gingrich (BDAG) Greek-English Lexicon: BDAG defines ἀπειλέω as “to threaten,” emphasizing its use in indicating a future danger or harm as a means of coercion. BDAG notes that the term is often used in legal or authoritative contexts where threats are made to enforce compliance or punish disobedience.
3. Liddell-Scott-Jones (LSJ) Greek-English Lexicon: LSJ describes ἀπειλέω as “to threaten,” focusing on its application in making threats of harm or danger. The lexicon highlights its usage in contexts where a threat is issued to compel or intimidate others into a desired course of action.
4. Thayer’s Greek-English Lexicon: Thayer’s defines ἀπειλέω as “to threaten,” pointing to its use in expressing an intention to cause harm or punishment. Thayer’s emphasizes that the term is used in various New Testament contexts where threats are employed to exert influence or assert authority.

In summary, ἀπειλέω (apeileō) means “to threaten,” referring to the act of issuing warnings or threats of harm or punishment to compel compliance or exert influence. Strong’s Concordance, BDAG, LSJ, and Thayer’s all agree on its meaning, noting its application in contexts of intimidation or coercion to achieve a desired outcome.