Divine Capacity: χωρέω (Strong’s G5562: chōreō) Makes Room for Growth

Strong’s G5562: From a derivative of the base ‘chasma’; to make space, literally or figuratively. Primarily means “to make room” or “to contain,” but extends metaphorically to “comprehend” or “receive.” Used in contexts of physical and spiritual capacity, progression, and advancement.

U- Unveiling the Word

χωρέω (chōreō) embodies the profound concept of making room or creating space, both in literal and metaphorical senses. In its primary meaning, it describes physical capacity – the ability to contain or hold something. However, its theological significance extends far beyond mere spatial dimensions. In New Testament usage, it often carries the deeper meaning of spiritual receptivity and understanding. The early church fathers frequently employed this word to discuss the soul’s capacity to receive divine truth and the Holy Spirit’s work. Today, this word continues to resonate with believers, reminding us that spiritual growth requires making room for God’s truth and presence in our lives.

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N – Necessary Information

• Greek Word: χωρέω, chōreō, /khō-reh’-ō/
• Pronunciation: kho (as in chorus) + reh (as in red) + o (as in go)
• Part of Speech: Verb

Etymology:

• Root: χωρ- (chōr-) from χῶρος (chōros) meaning “space” or “room”
• Suffix: -έω (-eō) common verb ending indicating continuous action
• Function: Creates an active verb meaning “to make room” or “to contain”

D – Defining Meanings

• To make room or space
• To have capacity for containing
• To comprehend or understand
• To move forward or advance
• To accept or receive

For compound words: Not applicable as χωρέω is not a compound word

Translation Options:

• “Make room for” – Best captures both physical and metaphorical usage
• “Contain” – Emphasizes capacity aspect
• “Progress” – Reflects movement or advancement meaning

E – Exploring Similar Words

• δέχομαι (dechomai, /dekh’-om-ahee/) – to receive or accept, more focused on welcoming – See G1209
• λαμβάνω (lambanō, /lam-ban’-o/) – to take or receive, emphasizes active grasping – See G2983
• χώρα (chōra, /kho’-rah/) – space or region, related noun form – See G5561

R – Reviewing the Word’s Morphology

As a verb, χωρέω exhibits:

• Tense: Present, Future, Aorist
• Voice: Active, Passive
• Mood: Indicative, Subjunctive, Imperative
• Person: First, Second, Third
• Number: Singular, Plural
• Aspect: Imperfective (Present), Perfective (Aorist)

Example morphological changes:

• χωρῶ (chorō) – I make room
• χωρήσει (chōrēsei) – he/she/it will make room
• ἐχώρησα (echōrēsa) – I made room
• Related noun: χώρα (chōra) – space, region

S – Studying Lexicon Insights

The diverse lexical traditions offer rich insights into χωρέω. BDAG emphasizes its spatial and metaphorical meanings, noting its progression from physical containment to mental comprehension. Thayer’s highlights its connection to movement and progress. LSJ provides extensive classical usage examples, showing its evolution from Homer onwards. Vine’s emphasizes its spiritual applications, particularly in Gospel contexts. Strong’s connects it to the concept of vacancy or space. LEH adds Septuagint usage context, while Moulton and Milligan provide papyri evidence of its common usage in everyday life, showing how the word bridged secular and sacred contexts in the first century.

T – Tracing the Scriptures

First appearance:
Matthew 15:17 “Do you not yet understand that whatever enters the mouth goes into the [χωρέω] stomach and is eliminated?”

Additional References:
Matthew 19:11, Matthew 19:12, John 8:37, John 21:25, 2 Corinthians 7:2

A – Analyzing Classical Usage

N – Noteworthy Summary

χωρέω beautifully captures the dynamic nature of spiritual growth and receptivity. Its meaning encompasses not just physical space but the soul’s capacity to receive divine truth. This word reminds us that following King Jesus requires making room in our hearts and minds for His truth to dwell. Just as a vessel must be emptied to be filled, we must create space in our lives for the Messiah’s presence. The good news is that as we make room for Him, He expands our capacity to receive more of His truth and love.

D – Did You Know?

• χωρέω appears in ancient medical texts describing the capacity of organs
• The word influenced early Christian discussions about the incarnation
• Modern Greek still uses this word in similar contexts of capacity and progression

Strong’s G5562: From a derivative of the base ‘chasma’; to make space, literally or figuratively. Primarily means “to make room” or “to contain,” but extends metaphorically to “comprehend” or “receive.” Used in contexts of physical and spiritual capacity, progression, and advancement.

Part of speech: Verb

Tags: capacity, containment, progress, understanding, spiritual growth, reception, advancement, movement, comprehension, space​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​