a prolonged (and causative) form of a primary verb (to flee; compare the base of δειλός and διάκονος); to pursue (literally or figuratively); by implication, to persecute:--ensue, follow (after), given to, (suffer) persecute(-ion), press forward.
### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **diṓkō**, represented by `{{G1377}}`, is a dynamic term meaning **to pursue**, either literally or figuratively. Its base definition includes being persecuted, as well as to "ensue, follow (after), given to, ... press forward." It appears 49 times across 43 unique verses, illustrating its dual role in describing both hostile opposition and devoted pursuit.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{G1377}}` is used in two contrasting contexts. Primarily, it describes the hostile act of persecution. Jesus forewarned his followers that they would be **persecuted** for his sake [[Matthew 5:11]] and that those who are **persecuted** for righteousness are blessed [[Matthew 5:10]]. The apostle Paul recounts his own past, admitting he **persecuted** the church of God [[Galatians 1:13]]. Conversely, the word is used to command a positive and active pursuit of virtue. Believers are instructed to **follow** peace with all people [[Hebrews 12:14]], to **follow** after charity [[1 Corinthians 14:1]], and to be **given** to hospitality [[Romans 12:13]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words expand upon the concepts of pursuit and persecution:
* `{{G5343}}` **pheúgō** (to run away... flee): Often used as a direct contrast to the positive sense of `{{G1377}}`. Believers are commanded to **flee** youthful lusts and instead **follow** after righteousness [[2 Timothy 2:22]].
* `{{G2638}}` **katalambánō** (to take eagerly... apprehend, attain): This word illustrates the goal of the pursuit. Paul states, "I **follow after** (diṓkō), if that I may **apprehend** that for which also I am apprehended of Christ Jesus" [[Philippians 3:12]].
* `{{G1908}}` **epēreázō** (to insult, slander): This term is often paired with persecution, highlighting the nature of the hostility. Jesus instructs his followers to pray for those who **despitefully use** them and **persecute** them [[Matthew 5:44]].
* `{{G3146}}` **mastigóō** (to flog... scourge): This describes a physical form of persecution that is linked with `{{G1377}}`. Jesus prophesied that his messengers would be **scourged** in synagogues and **persecuted** from city to city [[Matthew 23:34]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G1377}}` is significant, defining key aspects of the Christian life.
* **The Reality of Suffering:** The frequent use of `{{G1377}}` to mean "persecute" establishes suffering as an expected part of the Christian walk. Paul states plainly that all who desire to live a godly life in Christ Jesus will **suffer persecution** [[2 Timothy 3:12]].
* **The Call to Active Pursuit:** The word is not merely passive. It is a command to vigorously and intentionally **follow after** spiritual goals. Paul describes his own spiritual life as pressing toward a prize [[Philippians 3:14]], and believers are told to **follow** after righteousness, love, and peace [[1 Timothy 6:11]].
* **Union with Christ:** The term reveals a profound unity between Christ and his followers. When Saul was **persecuting** the church, Jesus confronted him by asking, "why **persecutest** thou me?" [[Acts 9:4]]. This shows that to persecute the church is to persecute Christ himself.
* **A Mandate for Love:** In response to persecution, the command is not retaliation but love. Believers are to bless those who **persecute** them [[Romans 12:14]] and pray for them [[Matthew 5:44]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G1377}}` is a powerful word with a crucial dual meaning. It describes both the painful reality of being **persecuted** for one's faith and the proactive, energetic call to **follow after** the virtues of God. This single term encapsulates a core tension of the Christian experience: enduring hostility from the world while simultaneously pressing forward in the pursuit of peace, righteousness, and love.
TRV