Brief Overview of ἐξαγοράζω (Strong’s G1805: exagorazō)

Introduction

Understanding Greek words in Biblical studies provides deeper insights into the nuances of Scripture. The Greek word ἐξαγοράζω (exagorazō) is particularly significant as it is associated with the concepts of redemption and buying back, themes central to both the New Testament’s portrayal of salvation and ancient Greek commerce and culture. Knowing the full meaning of this word helps in understanding theological discussions about redemption in the Bible.

Key Information

• The Greek Word: ἐξαγοράζω (exagorazō) [eks-ag-or-AH-zo]
• Etymology: Derived from ἐκ (ek), meaning “out of,” and ἀγοράζω (agorazō), meaning “to buy” or “to purchase.”
• Part of Speech: Verb; used in both active and middle voices.
• The F.O.G Word Choice: Coming Soon.

Primary Meanings

• To buy up or purchase completely.
• To redeem, especially from bondage or captivity.
• To make the most of or take full advantage of (e.g., in terms of time or opportunity).

Similar Words: ἀγοράζω (agorazō) [ag-or-AH-zo], meaning “to buy” or “to purchase.” While ἀγοράζω refers generally to the act of buying, ἐξαγοράζω (with the prefix “ἐκ-,” meaning “out of”) implies a more emphatic or purposeful action, such as buying out completely or redeeming someone or something from a particular situation.

Further Insights: ἐξαγοράζω is a compound verb that intensifies the idea of buying or purchasing by adding the prefix ἐκ- (“out of”). In the New Testament, it is often used metaphorically to refer to redeeming or liberating, particularly in the context of Christ’s redemptive work. Its form varies according to tense and voice, and it can be found in several tenses that convey different shades of meaning.

Lexicon Insights

BDAG: Describes ἐξαγοράζω as meaning “to buy back” or “redeem,” often in a metaphorical sense related to salvation and redemption. In some instances, it is used in a more general sense of making good use of time or opportunities.

Thayer’s: Defines ἐξαγοράζω as “to buy up” or “to buy out,” with special emphasis on the idea of redeeming from a position of captivity or bondage. It can also mean to rescue from loss or to improve upon an opportunity.

Vines: Highlights the significance of ἐξαγοράζω in Biblical texts as it pertains to Christ’s work of redemption. It can indicate both the legal act of purchasing back something and the spiritual act of setting free from sin.

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LSJ: Lists ἐξαγοράζω as meaning “to buy up” or “to ransom.” In classical Greek literature, it often has commercial or military connotations, such as purchasing captives back or making the most of one’s resources.

Strong’s Exhaustive Concordance: Notes ἐξαγοράζω (G1805) as “to buy up, ransom, or redeem,” particularly with reference to Christ redeeming believers by His sacrifice, as well as making good use of time.

Scripture References

• Ephesians 5:16 – “Redeeming (ἐξαγοράζω) the time, because the days are evil.”
• Colossians 4:5 – “Walk in wisdom toward them that are without, redeeming (ἐξαγοράζω) the time.”
• Galatians 3:13 – “Christ hath redeemed (ἐξαγοράζω) us from the curse of the law, being made a curse for us.”

Classical Usage

Summary of ἐξαγοράζω (G1805: exagorazō)

The Greek word ἐξαγοράζω (exagorazō) carries a profound meaning in both biblical and classical contexts, ranging from the idea of purchasing back or redeeming from a situation of bondage to making the most of time or opportunities. It combines the elements of commerce, law, and spiritual redemption, reflecting its diverse usage in the New Testament and ancient Greek texts. Understanding ἐξαγοράζω enriches one’s grasp of key biblical doctrines such as redemption and salvation.

Did You Know?

Did you know that ἐξαγοράζω is used in military contexts in ancient Greek literature to describe the act of redeeming captives? In the New Testament, it is repurposed to convey the spiritual concept of Christ redeeming humanity from sin and the curse of the law, transforming a word of economic and political relevance into one of profound theological significance.