Brief Overview of ἀναγκάζω (Strong’s G315:)

ἀναγκάζω (anagkázō) is a Greek verb with several meanings:

1. To Compel or Force: It denotes compelling or forcing someone to do something.
2. To Necessitate: It can also mean to make something necessary or inevitable.
3. To Enforce: In some contexts, it implies enforcing or obligating.

Detailed Overview with Concordances

1. BDAG (A Greek-English Lexicon of the New Testament and Other Early Christian Literature):

• BDAG defines ἀναγκάζω primarily as “to compel” or “to force” someone to act against their will. It is used in various contexts where one person is made to do something by external pressure or necessity. For example, in Matthew 5:41, it refers to compelling someone to carry a burden, and in Acts 28:19, it implies a legal necessity.

2. LSJ (Liddell-Scott-Jones Greek-English Lexicon):

• LSJ describes ἀναγκάζω as meaning “to compel” or “to coerce.” It highlights its use in classical Greek for forcing or obliging someone to do something. This meaning is consistent with its usage in both classical texts and the New Testament.

3. Thayer’s Greek Lexicon:

• Thayer explains ἀναγκάζω as “to compel” or “to force,” noting that it can also mean “to necessitate” or “to impose.” Thayer emphasizes its application in contexts where someone is made to act by necessity or external compulsion.

4. Strong’s Concordance:

• Strong’s Concordance lists ἀναγκάζω under G315, defining it as “to compel” or “to force.” This definition covers its use in contexts where individuals are required to act under pressure or necessity.

Summary:
ἀναγκάζω (anagkázō) is a Greek verb meaning “to compel” or “to force,” and it can also imply making something necessary or enforcing a requirement. Major lexicons, including BDAG, LSJ, Thayer’s Greek Lexicon, and Strong’s Concordance, emphasize its use in contexts of compulsion or necessity. In the New Testament and classical texts, it often refers to compelling someone to act or making an action necessary by external force or obligation.

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