Brief Overview of ἐλέγχω (Strong’s G1651: elénchō)

Introduction

In the study of Biblical Greek, understanding the nuances of specific words can greatly enhance our interpretation of the New Testament. The Greek verb ἐλέγχω (elénchō) is one such word that carries significant weight in theological discussions. It is closely associated with the concepts of reproof, conviction, and exposure of error. This term is crucial for understanding how moral and spiritual correction was viewed in early Christian communities, as well as its role in the broader context of Greek thought. The cultural and rhetorical implications of ἐλέγχω make it a key term for exploring the intersections between ethical teaching, personal responsibility, and communal accountability in ancient times.

Key Information:

Greek Word:

• ἐλέγχω (elénchō) [eh-LEN-kho]

Etymology:

• The verb is derived from the root ἐλέγξω (elénxō), which means “to prove” or “to bring to light,” highlighting the process of exposing or convincing someone of an error.

Part of Speech:

• Verb (Present Active Indicative, First Person Singular: ἐλέγχω)

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Primary Meanings:

• To convict or refute, particularly in a moral or ethical context.
• To expose, often with the connotation of bringing hidden faults to light.
• To reprove or reprimand, usually in a manner that leads to correction or repentance.

Similar Words:

• ἐπιτιμάω (epitimáō) [eh-pee-tee-MAH-oh]: This verb means “to rebuke” or “to admonish,” often implying a stern or authoritative reprimand. While both ἐλέγχω and ἐπιτιμάω involve correction, ἐλέγχω focuses more on the process of convincing someone of their fault, while ἐπιτιμάω emphasizes the act of reprimanding.
• ἐξετάζω (exetázō) [ex-eh-TAH-zoh]: Meaning “to examine” or “to investigate,” this verb is more focused on the process of inquiry and analysis, whereas ἐλέγχω implies a conclusion or conviction resulting from that examination.

Further Insights:

• Morphology: ἐλέγχω is a verb that can be conjugated in various tenses and voices. The active voice indicates that the subject is performing the action of convicting or reproving. It is used frequently in the New Testament to describe the act of moral correction or exposure of sin. Table: Conjugation of ἐλέγχω (elénchō) in Present Tense Person Singular Plural 1st ἐλέγχω ἐλέγχομεν 2nd ἐλέγχεις ἐλέγχετε 3rd ἐλέγχει ἐλέγχουσι(ν)

Lexicon Insights:

BDAG:
BDAG highlights ἐλέγχω as a verb that denotes the act of “convicting” or “exposing,” often in the context of revealing moral or ethical faults. It also emphasizes the corrective nature of the term, where conviction leads to a change in behavior or repentance.

Thayers:
Thayer’s lexicon describes ἐλέγχω as “to reprove” or “to rebuke,” focusing on its usage in contexts where someone is brought to realize their error. It also notes the term’s role in moral instruction, particularly within the New Testament.

Vines:
Vine’s Expository Dictionary discusses ἐλέγχω as an essential verb in the Christian ethical vocabulary, used to describe the process of convincing someone of their sin or fault. It highlights the verb’s role in leading individuals to repentance and spiritual correction.

LSJ:
The Liddell-Scott-Jones lexicon emphasizes the broader classical usage of ἐλέγχω, which includes “to put to shame,” “to refute,” and “to examine critically.” This shows the word’s importance in both moral and intellectual contexts, particularly in Greek philosophical debates.

Strongs Exhaustive Concordance:
Strong’s Concordance defines ἐλέγχω as “to convict, refute, or expose.” It is particularly noted for its use in passages dealing with the exposure of sin and the need for correction or repentance.

Scripture References:

• John 16:8 – “And when he comes, he will convict (ἐλέγξει) the world concerning sin and righteousness and judgment.”
• Ephesians 5:11 – “Take no part in the unfruitful works of darkness, but instead expose (ἐλέγχετε) them.”
• 2 Timothy 4:2 – “Preach the word; be ready in season and out of season; reprove (ἐλέγξον), rebuke, and exhort, with complete patience and teaching.”

Classical Usage:

Summary of ἐλέγχω (G1651: elénchō):

The Greek verb ἐλέγχω, meaning “to convict” or “to expose,” is a central term in both Biblical and classical literature. In the New Testament, it is used to describe the process of moral and spiritual correction, where individuals are brought to recognize their faults and are guided toward repentance. The term is also prominent in classical Greek philosophy and rhetoric, where it denotes the act of refuting an argument or exposing an error. Understanding ἐλέγχω allows us to appreciate the depth of ethical teaching in the New Testament and its connections to broader Greek intellectual traditions.

Did You Know?

The verb ἐλέγχω not only serves as a key term in the New Testament for moral correction but was also widely used in ancient Greek legal and rhetorical contexts. In courtrooms and philosophical debates, ἐλέγχω was employed to describe the process of cross-examining a witness or opponent to reveal inconsistencies or falsehoods. This historical usage highlights the word’s enduring significance in both moral and intellectual discourse.