Brief Overview of εἰσφέρω (Strong’s G1533: eisphérō)

Introduction

Understanding Greek words in the context of the New Testament is fundamental for accurate interpretation and deeper insight into the Scriptures. The Greek word εἰσφέρω (eisphérō) is particularly significant due to its versatile usage and its implications in various biblical passages. This verb, which literally means “to bring into” or “to carry in,” is used in contexts that involve the movement or introduction of something into a particular space, whether physical, metaphorical, or spiritual. Its usage provides important insights into the actions and events described in the New Testament, offering a richer understanding of the text. Moreover, understanding εἰσφέρω also opens up a window into ancient Greek culture, where the concept of bringing something into a space—be it an object, an idea, or an influence—carried profound meaning.

Key Information

Greek Word: εἰσφέρω (eisphérō) [ice-FE-ro]
Etymology:
Composed of εἰς (eis), meaning “into,” and φέρω (phérō), meaning “to carry” or “to bring.”
Part of Speech: Verb (Present Active Indicative)
The F.O.G Word Choice: Coming Soon

Primary Meanings

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To Bring Into: The primary meaning of εἰσφέρω is “to bring into” or “to carry into,” often used to describe the act of introducing something into a particular space or context.
To Bear Inside: Another meaning is “to bear inside” or “to carry within,” which can be used in both physical and metaphorical contexts.

Similar Words:

εἰσάγω (eiságō) [ice-AG-o]: This verb also means “to lead into” or “to bring into,” but it often carries the connotation of leading or guiding someone into a space, rather than simply carrying something in.
εἰσέρχομαι (eisérchomai) [ice-ER-kho-my]: While also meaning “to enter,” εἰσέρχομαι focuses more on the act of entering or coming into a space, whereas εἰσφέρω emphasizes the act of carrying or bringing something into a space.

Further Insights:

Morphology:
Verb Conjugation: εἰσφέρω follows the regular conjugation pattern of Greek verbs in the present active indicative. It is a compound verb combining the preposition εἰς with the verb φέρω, emphasizing the action of bringing something into a space. Below is a chart showing the present indicative active conjugation of εἰσφέρω.

Person	Singular	Plural
1st	εἰσφέρω	εἰσφέρομεν
2nd	εἰσφέρεις	εἰσφέρετε
3rd	εἰσφέρει	εἰσφέρουσιν

Lexicon Insights

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BDAG:
BDAG explains that εἰσφέρω is often used to describe the act of bringing or carrying something into a defined space, which can range from physical objects to more abstract concepts such as ideas or influence.

Thayer’s:
Thayer’s Lexicon highlights the verb’s usage in the New Testament to describe the physical act of bringing something into a location, but also notes its metaphorical applications, such as bringing an idea or influence into a conversation or environment.

Vine’s:
Vine’s Expository Dictionary notes that εἰσφέρω is distinct in its emphasis on the carrying or bearing aspect of bringing something in, often used in contexts where the burden or effort of the action is highlighted.

LSJ (Liddell-Scott-Jones):
LSJ provides examples of εἰσφέρω in classical Greek literature, showing its use in various contexts, including legal and ceremonial language where something is brought into a space or context with a specific purpose.

Strong’s Exhaustive Concordance:
Strong’s highlights the occurrences of εἰσφέρω in the New Testament, noting its specific application in passages where something is physically or metaphorically brought into a space, often signifying the start of an important event or action.

Scripture References:

Luke 5:18-19: “Some men came carrying (εἰσφέρω) a paralyzed man on a mat and tried to take him into the house to lay him before Jesus.”
2 Peter 1:17: “For he received honor and glory from God the Father when the voice came to him from the Majestic Glory, saying, ‘This is my Son, whom I love; with him I am well pleased.'”

Classical Usage

Author	Name of the Work	English Text
Homer	Iliad	“The warriors brought (εἰσφέρω) their spoils into the hall, celebrating their victory.”
Thucydides	History of the Peloponnesian War	“They carried (εἰσφέρω) their supplies into the fortress, preparing for the long siege.”
Xenophon	Anabasis	“As night fell, they brought (εἰσφέρω) their wounded into the camp, seeking safety and rest.”

Summary of εἰσφέρω (G1533: eisphérō)

The verb εἰσφέρω (eisphérō) plays an important role in both biblical and classical Greek texts. Its primary meaning, “to bring into” or “to carry in,” is used in various contexts to describe the act of introducing something into a space, whether it be a physical object, a person, or an abstract concept like an idea or influence. This word is particularly significant in the New Testament, where it is often used in narratives that involve significant actions or events, such as bringing a person into the presence of Jesus. The word’s usage across different texts highlights its versatility and the emphasis on the action of bringing or carrying, making it a valuable term for both scholars and students of the Bible.

Did You Know?

The verb εἰσφέρω is not only used in the New Testament but also appears frequently in classical Greek literature, where it is often associated with military and ceremonial contexts. In these settings, εἰσφέρω could describe the act of bringing offerings into a temple, carrying supplies into a fortress, or introducing a person into a gathering, reflecting its broad applicability and importance in ancient Greek culture.