Brief Overview of ἐγχρίω (Strong’s G1472: enchrió)

Introduction:

Understanding the original Greek words used in the New Testament is crucial for gaining a deeper comprehension of Biblical texts. Each Greek word carries a rich cultural and historical context that often adds layers of meaning beyond the basic translation. The word ἐγχρίω (enchrió), meaning “to anoint” or “to rub in,” is one such term. This word not only appears in religious contexts but also has applications in everyday life in ancient Greek culture. The act of anointing, whether in a ceremonial or medicinal context, held significant symbolic meaning, representing sanctification, healing, and preparation. Exploring the word ἐγχρίω offers valuable insights into these practices and their relevance in both the New Testament and ancient Greek culture.

Key Information:

• Greek Word: ἐγχρίω (enchrió) [en-khree’-o]
• Etymology: Derived from the root word χρίω (chrió), meaning “to anoint” or “to smear,” with the prefix ἐν (en), meaning “in” or “into.” Together, ἐγχρίω signifies the action of anointing by rubbing or applying oil into something.
• Part of Speech: Verb (Present Active Indicative)
• The F.O.G Word Choice: Coming Soon

Primary Meanings:

• To Anoint: The primary meaning of ἐγχρίω is “to anoint,” particularly in the sense of rubbing or applying oil or ointment onto a person or object.
• To Rub In: This term can also refer more generally to the act of rubbing or smearing a substance into something, such as an ointment into the skin for medicinal purposes.

Similar Words:

• χρίω (chrió) [khree’-o]: The root word of ἐγχρίω, meaning “to anoint.” While ἐγχρίω often implies a more thorough or intensive application, χρίω is more general and can refer to any anointing or smearing action.
• ἀλείφω (aleípho) [al-i’-fo]: Another Greek word for “to anoint” or “to rub with oil,” often used interchangeably with χρίω but typically referring to a less formal or ceremonial anointing, such as applying oil after bathing.

Further Insights:

• Morphological Insights:
• ἐγχρίω is a verb, primarily used in the active voice. Its form varies depending on tense, mood, and voice, but it retains the core meaning of anointing or rubbing in.
• The verb follows the regular conjugation patterns for Greek verbs in the present active indicative form.

Lexicon Insights:

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BDAG: The BDAG lexicon defines ἐγχρίω primarily as “to anoint,” with specific reference to the act of rubbing or applying oil, typically in a ceremonial or medicinal context. It notes the word’s usage in contexts that emphasize the thoroughness of the application.

Thayer’s: Thayer’s lexicon also lists ἐγχρίω as meaning “to anoint,” highlighting its use in various New Testament passages where the act of anointing is symbolically significant. Thayer’s further explores the word’s connection to ritual purity and healing practices in ancient Greek culture.

Vine’s: Vine’s Expository Dictionary emphasizes the ritualistic and symbolic aspects of ἐγχρίω, noting its use in consecrating individuals or objects for religious purposes. The lexicon also touches on its use in everyday contexts, such as the anointing of the sick.

LSJ: The Liddell-Scott-Jones lexicon provides a broader context for ἐγχρίω, detailing its use in classical Greek literature where it often appears in descriptions of athletic preparation, medical treatments, and religious rites.

Strong’s Exhaustive Concordance: Strong’s defines ἐγχρίω simply as “to anoint,” but also includes references to its appearances in the New Testament and its broader usage in ancient texts, emphasizing the word’s connection to practices of sanctification and healing.

Scripture References:

• James 5:14: “Is anyone among you sick? Let him call for the elders of the church, and let them pray over him, anointing (ἐγχρίω) him with oil in the name of the Lord.”

Classical Usage:

Summary of ἐγχρίω (G1472: enchrió):

The verb ἐγχρίω (G1472: enchrió) is primarily used to describe the act of anointing or rubbing in oil, with significant implications in both religious and everyday contexts. In the New Testament, it is closely associated with the practices of healing and consecration, symbolizing purification, sanctification, and the bestowal of divine favor. Its roots in ancient Greek culture further highlight its importance in rituals, athletic preparations, and medicinal treatments. Understanding ἐγχρίω provides deeper insight into the spiritual and cultural practices of the time, enriching our interpretation of Biblical passages and classical literature.

Did You Know?

Did You Know? In ancient Greek culture, the act of anointing (ἐγχρίω) was not only a religious practice but also a common part of daily life. Athletes would anoint their bodies with oil before competitions, both to protect their skin and to enhance their physical appearance. Similarly, anointing was a critical aspect of medical treatments, where oils and ointments were applied to wounds or used as part of therapeutic massages. This multi-faceted use of ἐγχρίω reflects its deep significance in both secular and sacred spheres.