from ἐκ and ἐγείρω; to rouse fully, i.e. (figuratively) to resuscitate (from death), release (from infliction):--raise up.
Transliteration:exegeírō
Pronunciation:ex-eg-i'-ro
Detailed Word Study
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek verb G1825 (ἐξεγείρω, *exegeírō*) is a compound word formed from the preposition ἐκ (*ek*), meaning "out of" or "from," and the verb ἐγείρω (*egeírō*), meaning "to rouse, awaken, or raise up." The prefix ἐκ intensifies the action of the base verb, implying a complete, decisive, or thorough rousing, specifically a bringing forth *out of* a particular state or condition.
Its semantic range encompasses:
* **To rouse fully/completely:** This suggests a definitive awakening from sleep or inactivity.
* **To resuscitate (from death):** This is a prominent figurative use, indicating a bringing back to life from the state of death, emphasizing the emergence *out of* death's domain.
* **To release (from infliction/oppression):** This figurative sense implies a raising up or deliverance from a state of suffering, bondage, or adversity. The "out of" aspect here signifies liberation from a difficult situation.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The word G1825 (ἐξεγείρω) appears in the New Testament only twice, each instance carrying significant theological weight:
* **[[Romans 9:17]]**: "For the Scripture says to Pharaoh, 'For this very purpose I have raised you up, that I might show my power in you, and that my name might be proclaimed in all the earth.'"
* **Context:** Paul quotes Exodus 9:16 in his discourse on God's sovereign election and hardening of hearts. The Septuagint (LXX) uses ἐξεγείρω to translate the Hebrew `{{H6965}}` (*qum*), which means "to rise, stand up, establish."
* **Meaning:** In this context, "raised you up" does not imply bringing Pharaoh back from death. Rather, it signifies God's active and purposeful establishment of Pharaoh in his position of power, specifically for the divine purpose of demonstrating God's power and making His name known through the events of the Exodus. It highlights God's absolute sovereignty over human history and the lives of individuals, even those who oppose Him, using them as instruments for His redemptive plan. The "out of" aspect could suggest raising him *out of* obscurity into prominence, or simply emphasizing the definitive nature of God's action in establishing him.
* **[[2 Timothy 2:8]]**: "Remember Jesus Christ, risen from the dead, descendant of David, according to my gospel."
* **Context:** Paul encourages Timothy to remember the core truth of the gospel as a foundation for enduring hardship.
* **Meaning:** Here, ἐξεγείρω is used in its most profound figurative sense: the definitive "resuscitation from death." It refers unequivocally to the resurrection of Jesus Christ. The compound verb emphasizes the complete and irreversible nature of Christ's victory over death; He was brought decisively *out of* the realm of death. This usage underscores the foundational truth of Christian faith, testifying to the reality, power, and finality of Christ's resurrection as the central event of salvation history.
### Related Words & Concepts
* **`{{G1453}}` (egeírō):** The base verb, meaning "to rouse, awaken, raise up." It is much more common in the New Testament and is broadly used for physical awakening, raising the sick, and, most importantly, for resurrection (e.g., Jesus raising Lazarus, or the general resurrection of believers). While `{{G1453}}` conveys the act of raising, G1825 (ἐξεγείρω) adds an intensified nuance, often implying a more complete or definitive "out of" movement.
* **`{{G450}}` (anístēmi):** Another frequently used verb for "to raise up" or "to stand up," especially in contexts of resurrection. While `{{G1453}}` focuses on the act of rousing, `{{G450}}` emphasizes the act of standing or rising. All three verbs (G1825, `{{G1453}}`, `{{G450}}`) contribute to the rich theological vocabulary surrounding resurrection.
* **Divine Sovereignty:** The usage in [[Romans 9:17]] connects G1825 to the overarching biblical theme of God's absolute control and purposeful direction of all things, including the lives and destinies of individuals, to accomplish His will.
* **Resurrection:** The usage in [[2 Timothy 2:8]] firmly grounds G1825 in the pivotal theological concept of resurrection, particularly the bodily resurrection of Jesus Christ, which is the cornerstone of Christian hope, salvation, and the defeat of death.
### Theological Significance
The two occurrences of G1825 (ἐξεγείρω), though few, are deeply significant, illuminating two critical aspects of God's nature and redemptive plan:
1. **God's Sovereign Ordination of History:** In the context of Pharaoh, G1825 powerfully demonstrates that God is not a passive observer but an active orchestrator of human history. He raises up individuals, establishes rulers, and permits events not by chance, but according to His divine purpose. Even the resistance of a hardened heart like Pharaoh's is ultimately subsumed into God's plan to display His omnipotent power and ensure His name is glorified across the earth. This underscores God's ultimate authority over all creation and His unwavering commitment to His covenantal promises.
2. **The Decisive Reality of Christ's Resurrection:** The application of G1825 to Jesus' resurrection in [[2 Timothy 2:8]] emphasizes the complete and unassailable victory of Christ over death. The prefix ἐκ highlights that Jesus was truly brought *out of* the realm of death, not merely revived or resuscitated to die again. His resurrection is the definitive act that validates His identity as the Son of God, confirms the truth of the gospel, and provides the foundation for the believer's hope of eternal life and resurrection. It signifies the ultimate triumph of life over death, light over darkness, and God's saving power over sin's dominion.
### Summary
G1825 (ἐξεγείρω) is a potent Greek verb meaning "to rouse fully" or "to raise up definitively," with a strong implication of emergence "out of" a prior state. Its two New Testament occurrences reveal profound theological truths. In [[Romans 9:17]], it illustrates God's absolute sovereignty in raising up Pharaoh for His divine purposes, showcasing His power and renown. Crucially, in [[2 Timothy 2:8]], it describes the complete and decisive resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead, affirming the central pillar of Christian faith and the triumph of God's life-giving power over death. Thus, G1825 encapsulates both God's providential control over history and His ultimate victory in the person and work of His resurrected Son.