ἀγραυλέω – Pronunciation Guide: ah-graw-LEH-oh

Basic Definition

Strong’s G63: To live in the fields, to camp out at night; specifically referring to shepherds who remain outdoors to watch their flocks. The term implies continuous outdoor vigilance and the pastoral lifestyle of remaining in the fields with one’s flock.

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Word Study

• Part of Speech: Verb
• Language Origin: Compound of ἀγρός (field) and αὐλή (courtyard/open space)

Morphology:

• ἀγραυλοῦντες – Present active participle (masculine plural nominative) – “keeping watch”
• ἀγραυλέω – Present active indicative – “I keep watch in the fields”

Word Origin & History

This compound verb emerges from the agricultural context of ancient Mediterranean pastoral life. The combination of ἀγρός (field) and αὐλή (courtyard) creates a vivid picture of shepherds making the open fields their temporary dwelling place.

In classical Greek literature, the term appears in works describing rural life and agricultural practices. Xenophon uses related terms in his “Oeconomicus” when discussing the responsibilities of farm management and pastoral care.

Biblical Usage

In the New Testament, ἀγραυλέω appears only once, in Luke 2:8, where it describes the shepherds who first received the announcement of the Messiah’s birth. This singular usage carries profound theological significance as it connects to the broader biblical narrative of shepherding and divine revelation.

Key Passages:

• Luke 2:8-14 – “And there were shepherds living out in the fields nearby, keeping watch over their flocks at night.”

Cultural Insights

The practice of shepherds staying in the fields overnight was common in ancient Israel, particularly during lambing season and warmer months. These shepherds would often construct temporary shelters or rely on natural caves for protection while maintaining constant vigilance over their flocks.

The Bethlehem shepherds were likely watching over sheep destined for Temple sacrifices, as Bethlehem’s proximity to Jerusalem made it an ideal location for raising sacrificial lambs.

Theological Significance

The use of ἀγραυλέω in the nativity narrative carries profound meaning. That God chose to reveal the birth of His Son first to shepherds engaged in this humble task reflects His character of exalting the lowly and His connection to the pastoral imagery throughout Scripture.

The shepherds’ vigilant watch parallels the spiritual watchfulness believers are called to maintain, anticipating the return of the Great Shepherd. Their presence also foreshadows Jesus as the Good Shepherd who would lay down His life for His sheep.

Personal Application

Just as the shepherds maintained their watch through the night, we too are called to remain vigilant in our spiritual lives. Their example teaches us that divine encounters often come in the midst of faithful service in our daily responsibilities.

The shepherds’ experience reminds us that God often reveals His greatest works to those who are faithfully performing their duties, however humble they may seem.

Related Words

• ποιμήν (shepherd) – See G4166
• ἀγρός (field) – See G68
• φυλάσσω (to guard/keep watch) – See G5442

Did you Know?

• The practice of ἀγραυλέω continues today in parts of Israel where Bedouin shepherds maintain ancient pastoral traditions.
• The fields around Bethlehem where this word was used are still known as “Shepherds’ Fields” and can be visited today.
• The timing of the shepherds being in the fields has helped scholars determine Jesus was likely not born in winter.

Remember This

The humble vigilance of shepherds keeping watch became the backdrop for heaven’s greatest announcement, reminding us that God often reveals His glory to those faithfully serving in life’s quiet fields.