Leading by Hand: χειραγωγέω (Strong’s G5496: cheiragōgeō) Shows Divine Care

Strong’s G5496: Compound verb from χείρ (hand) and ἄγω (to lead/guide), meaning to lead or guide by the hand, especially someone who cannot see. Used metaphorically for spiritual guidance and divine care in times of darkness or uncertainty.

U- Unveiling the Word

χειραγωγέω represents a beautiful picture of intimate guidance and personal care. This compound verb combines the concrete action of hand-holding with purposeful leading, creating a vivid image of supportive guidance. In its New Testament context, it primarily appears in situations where someone is physically unable to see, requiring direct assistance. However, its theological significance extends beyond physical blindness to spiritual guidance. The early church understood this word as a powerful metaphor for how God guides His people through spiritual darkness and uncertainty. Today, it continues to resonate as a reminder of God’s personal involvement in leading His children, particularly when they feel lost or unable to find their way forward.

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N – Necessary Information

• Greek Word: χειραγωγέω, cheiragōgeō, /khi-rah-gō-GEH-ō/
• Detailed pronunciation: khi (as in ‘key’) + rah + gō (as in ‘go’) + GEH (stressed) + ō
• Part of Speech: Verb

Etymology:

• χείρ (cheir) – hand
• ἄγω (agō) – to lead, guide, bring
• -έω (-eō) – verbal suffix indicating continuous action

D – Defining Meanings

• To lead by the hand
• To guide physically
• To provide direct, personal guidance

For compound words:

• χείρ contributes the means of guidance (by hand)
• ἄγω provides the action of leading
• -έω indicates ongoing action

Translation Options:

• “to lead by hand” – emphasizes the physical contact and guidance
• “to hand-guide” – captures the compound nature of the word
• “to personally guide” – reflects the intimate nature of the guidance

E – Exploring Similar Words

• ὁδηγέω (hodēgeō) /ho-day-GEH-ō/ – to guide along a path See G3594
• καθηγέομαι (kathēgeomai) /kath-ay-GEH-oh-my/ – to guide as a teacher See G2519
• ποδηγέω (podēgeō) /po-day-GEH-ō/ – to guide by foot See G4285

R – Reviewing the Word’s Morphology

Verbal Features:

• Tense: Present
• Voice: Active
• Mood: Indicative/Subjunctive
• Person: All persons
• Number: Singular and Plural
• Aspect: Continuous/Progressive

Example morphological changes:

• Present: χειραγωγέω (I lead by hand)
• Imperfect: ἐχειραγώγουν (I was leading by hand)
• Future: χειραγωγήσω (I will lead by hand)

S – Studying Lexicon Insights

The lexical tradition provides rich insights into χειραγωγέω. BDAG emphasizes its literal meaning of leading by hand, particularly in contexts of blindness or physical inability. Thayer’s expands this to include metaphorical guidance. LSJ notes its usage in classical Greek for helping the disabled or elderly. Vine’s connects it to divine guidance in Christian contexts. Strong’s highlights the compound nature of the word. LEH notes its usage in Septuagint translations. Moulton and Milligan provide papyri evidence showing its common usage in everyday situations of assistance and guidance.

T – Tracing the Scriptures

First appearance:
And Saul arose from the earth; and when his eyes were opened, he saw no man: but they led [χειραγωγέω] him by the hand and brought him into Damascus. Acts 9:8

Additional References:
Acts 22:11

A – Analyzing Classical Usage

N – Noteworthy Summary

χειραγωγέω embodies the beautiful truth of God’s personal guidance in our lives. Just as Saul, in his moment of physical blindness, needed others to lead him by hand, we often find ourselves in situations where we need divine guidance. This word reveals the Messiah’s tender care for His people, showing how He doesn’t merely point the way but takes us by the hand and leads us personally. It reminds us that in our moments of darkness or uncertainty, our Lord provides intimate, hands-on guidance.

D – Did You Know?

• χειραγωγέω was commonly used in medical texts to describe helping patients navigate during recovery
• The word appears in ancient inscriptions describing temple guides assisting blind pilgrims
• Early Christian art often depicted this concept of hand-guidance in baptismal scenes

Strong’s G5496: Compound verb from χείρ (hand) and ἄγω (to lead/guide), meaning to lead or guide by the hand, especially someone who cannot see. Used metaphorically for spiritual guidance and divine care in times of darkness or uncertainty.

Part of speech: Verb

Tags: guidance, divine care, blindness, leadership, hands, physical assistance, spiritual guidance, divine intervention, Saul’s conversion, Damascus road​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​