### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek lemma ἐρέω (eréō, `{{G2046}}`) serves as a primary verb for verbal communication in the New Testament. Its base definition indicates it is "to utter, i.e., speak or say." Lexicographically, it is often understood as a fuller form of ῥέω (rheō, `{{G4483}}`, "to flow," hence "to speak") and functions as an alternate or suppletive form for certain tenses of ἔπω (epō, `{{G2036}}`, "to say, speak"). This interwoven relationship with ἔπω means that many conjugated forms translated as "I say," "he said," or "they will say" derive from this root. The semantic range of ἐρέω encompasses a straightforward declaration, an authoritative pronouncement, a simple statement, a command, or a response. It focuses on the act of verbalizing thought or information, often with a direct and intentional quality.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
Forms of ἐρέω (often through its suppletive relationship with ἔπω) appear frequently throughout the New Testament, signifying various modes of communication:
* **Authoritative Declaration:** Jesus frequently uses forms of ἐρέω to express His divine authority. For instance, in [[Matthew 5:22]], Jesus declares, "But I say to you..." (Ἐγὼ δὲ λέγω ὑμῖν...), directly contrasting His teaching with traditional interpretations, thereby asserting His supreme interpretive authority. Similarly, in [[Matthew 16:18]], Jesus's foundational statement to Peter, "And I tell you, you are Peter..." (κἀγὼ δέ σοι λέγω ὅτι σὺ εἶ Πέτρος...), employs a form of ἐρέω to convey a definitive pronouncement regarding the church's foundation.
* **Divine Utterance:** The word is used to convey God's direct speech or revelation. In [[Romans 9:15]], Paul quotes God's words to Moses from the Old Testament: "For he says to Moses, 'I will have mercy on whom I have mercy...'" (τῷ γὰρ Μωϋσεῖ λέγει, Ἐλεήσω ὃν ἂν ἐλεῶ...). This underscores the divine origin and immutable nature of God's declarations.
* **Instruction and Command:** ἐρέω often conveys instructions or commands. In [[Luke 17:10]], Jesus instructs His disciples on humility, saying, "...when you have done all that you were commanded, say, 'We are unworthy servants...'" (...λέγετε ὅτι δοῦλοι ἀχρεῖοί ἐσμεν...). Here, the word prescribes a specific humble utterance.
* **Prophecy and Prediction:** The future tense forms of ἐρέω are often used in prophetic contexts. In [[Luke 22:34]], Jesus predicts Peter's denial: "He said, 'I tell you, Peter, the rooster will not crow this day...'" (ὁ δὲ εἶπεν, Λέγω σοι, Πέτρε, οὐ φωνήσει σήμερον ἀλέκτωρ...). This highlights the certainty of the spoken word of Christ.
* **Recalling Past Teachings:** The aorist forms are frequently used to refer to what has been previously said or taught. In [[John 14:26]], Jesus promises the Holy Spirit will "bring to your remembrance all that I have said to you" (ὑπομνήσει ὑμᾶς πάντα ἃ εἶπον ὑμῖν), emphasizing the Spirit's role in preserving and illuminating Christ's words.
### Related Words & Concepts
ἐρέω exists within a rich semantic field of Greek words for speaking:
* **ἔπω (epō, `{{G2036}}`):** As noted, ἐρέω functions as a suppletive for ἔπω, meaning many of the most common forms of "to say" or "to speak" in the New Testament are derived from these two lemmas interchangeably.
* **ῥέω (rheō, `{{G4483}}`):** The etymological root of ἐρέω, signifying the "flow" of speech.
* **λαλέω (laleō, `{{G2980}}`):** Generally means "to speak" or "to talk," often more broadly referring to the act of uttering sounds or engaging in conversation. While ἐρέω/ἔπω often implies a more deliberate or content-focused statement, λαλέω can be more general, even including babbling or speaking in tongues.
* **φημί (phēmi, `{{G5346}}`):** "To say, affirm, declare." This word often carries a sense of asserting or affirming something as true, sometimes with an authoritative tone.
* **ἀποκρίνομαι (apokrinomai, `{{G611}}`):** "To answer, reply." This verb specifically denotes speaking in response to a question or situation.
The concepts closely associated with ἐρέω include authority, declaration, instruction, prophecy, communication, and revelation. It is the fundamental act of verbalizing truth, will, or information.
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of ἐρέω is profound, particularly in its frequent application to divine and authoritative speech:
* **Divine Authority and Revelation:** When God or Jesus "says" (ἐρέω), it signifies an act of divine will and power. God's creative acts in Genesis are initiated by His spoken word (e.g., "Let there be light," though this is Old Testament, the concept carries over). In the New Testament, Jesus's "I say to you" establishes His authority as the divine revealer and interpreter of God's will, transcending and fulfilling the Law and Prophets. This highlights the active, dynamic nature of God's communication with humanity.
* **The Incarnate Word:** The very concept of Jesus as the "Word" (Logos, `{{G3056}}`) in [[John 1:1]] underscores the profound theological weight of divine utterance. Jesus embodies the spoken truth of God, making God's character and will comprehensible.
* **Foundation of Truth:** The words "said" by God and Christ form the bedrock of Christian truth and doctrine. They are not mere suggestions but authoritative declarations upon which faith is built and life is ordered. The reliability and truthfulness of God's spoken word are paramount.
* **Call to Obedience and Discipleship:** The commands and instructions conveyed through ἐρέω forms are calls to active obedience for believers. Discipleship involves hearing and doing what the Lord has "said."
* **Prophetic Certainty:** When prophets or apostles speak under divine inspiration, their words, often conveyed through forms of ἐρέω, carry the weight of divine certainty and future fulfillment.
### Summary
ἐρέω (eréō, `{{G2046}}`) is a foundational Greek verb for "to utter, speak, or say," often functioning interchangeably with ἔπω (epō, `{{G2036}}`). Its pervasive use in the New Testament, particularly in relation to the words of God and Jesus, underscores its critical role in conveying divine authority, revelation, instruction, and prophecy. The act of "saying" by God and Christ is portrayed as powerful, truthful, and determinative, forming the very basis of Christian faith and calling believers to hear and obey the authoritative spoken word.
TRV