Brief Overview of ἐκκεντέω (Strong’s G1574: ekkenteō)

Introduction

In Biblical studies, the study of Greek words is essential for a deeper understanding of the original text of the New Testament. One such word, ἐκκεντέω (ekkenteō), holds significant importance, particularly in its use in key passages that deal with themes of piercing and prophecy. Understanding this word provides insight into the physical and symbolic acts of piercing, which carry profound theological implications in both New Testament interpretation and the broader context of ancient Greek culture. The use of ἐκκεντέω in scripture not only conveys a literal action but also underscores the fulfillment of prophecies and the deep emotional responses they elicit.

Key Information

• Greek Word: ἐκκεντέω (ekkenteō) [ek-ken-TEH-oh]
• Etymology: Derived from the prefix ἐκ- (ek), meaning “out of” or “from,” and the verb κεντέω (kenteō), meaning “to pierce” or “to prick.” The compound verb emphasizes the action of piercing through or stabbing.
• Part of Speech: Verb (indicative of an action involving piercing or stabbing)
• The F.O.G Word Choice: Coming Soon

Primary Meanings

• To pierce: ἐκκεντέω primarily means to pierce or to stab, often in the context of inflicting a wound or puncturing a surface.
• To thrust through: The word can also imply a more forceful action of thrusting through an object or body, conveying both physical penetration and the intensity of the act.

Similar Words:

• κεντέω (kenteō) [ken-TEH-oh]: A closely related word meaning “to prick” or “to pierce,” though ἐκκεντέω carries a stronger connotation of thorough penetration or stabbing.
• τρυπάω (trypaō) [troo-PAH-oh]: Meaning “to bore” or “to perforate,” this word can also refer to piercing, but typically in a less violent or forceful context compared to ἐκκεντέω.

Further Insights

• Morphology: As a verb, ἐκκεντέω follows regular Greek conjugation patterns. It is used primarily in the active voice, indicating that the subject is performing the action of piercing.

Conjugation Chart (Present Active Indicative)

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Lexicon Insights

• BDAG: Defines ἐκκεντέω as “to pierce” or “to stab,” often used in contexts describing the physical act of penetration, particularly with weapons.
• Thayer’s: Emphasizes the use of ἐκκεντέω in prophetic contexts, particularly in the New Testament, where it refers to the fulfillment of Old Testament prophecies regarding the piercing of Christ.
• Vine’s: Highlights the metaphorical and prophetic significance of ἐκκεντέω, particularly in passages that evoke deep emotional responses, such as mourning or repentance.
• LSJ: Lists the classical uses of ἐκκεντέω, focusing on its literal meaning of piercing through an object or body, often in battle or sacrifice contexts.
• Strong’s Exhaustive Concordance: Identifies ἐκκεντέω as a verb meaning “to pierce” or “to thrust through,” with specific reference to its use in the prophecy of the Messiah’s suffering.

Scripture References:

• John 19:37: “And again another scripture says, ‘They shall look on him whom they have pierced (ἐκκεντέω).’”
• Revelation 1:7: “Behold, he is coming with the clouds, and every eye will see him, even those who pierced (ἐκκεντέω) him.”

Classical Usage

In classical Greek literature, ἐκκεντέω was used in various contexts, particularly in descriptions of battles, sacrifices, and other situations involving forceful piercing or stabbing.

Summary of ἐκκεντέω (G1574: ekkenteō)

The Greek verb ἐκκεντέω (ekkenteō) is a powerful word that conveys the act of piercing or stabbing, often with significant force or intent. Its usage in the New Testament is particularly important for understanding the fulfillment of prophecies regarding the crucifixion and the emotional responses these events evoke. The word also carries strong connotations in classical Greek literature, where it is often used to describe acts of violence or sacrifice. By studying ἐκκεντέω, we gain deeper insight into the physical and spiritual implications of piercing, both in historical and prophetic contexts.

Did You Know?

The use of ἐκκεντέω in the New Testament to describe the piercing of Christ has deep roots in Old Testament prophecy. The word is directly connected to Zechariah 12:10, where the prophet foretells the mourning that will follow the piercing of the Messiah. This connection highlights the continuity between the Old and New Testaments and the fulfillment of prophetic promises in the life and death of Jesus. Understanding ἐκκεντέω enriches our appreciation of these profound theological themes and their significance in Christian doctrine.