### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek verb ζωγρέω (zōgréō, `{{G2221}}`) is a compound word derived from ζῶον (zōon, `{{G2226}}`, "living creature") and ἀγρεύω (agreúō, to hunt or catch). Its primary, literal meaning is "to catch alive" or "to take alive." In ancient military contexts, it specifically referred to taking prisoners of war, capturing an enemy without killing them. This literal sense carries the nuance of securing a living being for a specific purpose, often involving a degree of skill, strategy, or force.
Figuratively, ζωγρέω extends its semantic range to "to capture," "to ensnare," or "to take captive." This metaphorical usage implies an act of seizing or gaining control over someone, often through cunning, deception, or overpowering influence, leading to a state of being held or compelled. The core idea of "taking alive" persists, suggesting that the captured entity retains its life, albeit under the control of another.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The verb ζωγρέω appears only twice in the New Testament, presenting a striking contrast in its application:
1. **[[Luke 5:10]]**: In this pivotal passage, Jesus calls Simon Peter, James, and John. After their miraculous catch of fish, Jesus tells Simon, "Do not be afraid; from now on you will be catching men." Here, ζωγρέω is used metaphorically to describe the calling of disciples to evangelism. The "catching" is not for destruction or enslavement, but for life and salvation, drawing people into the kingdom of God. This usage transforms the mundane act of fishing into a profound spiritual vocation, where the "catch" is a person brought into a new relationship with God. The act is one of divine initiative and transformative purpose.
2. **[[2 Timothy 2:26]]**: In this pastoral epistle, Paul instructs Timothy on how to deal with opponents who are "ensnared" or "taken captive." He writes that "God may grant them repentance leading to a knowledge of the truth, and that they may come to their senses and escape from the snare of the devil, having been taken captive by him to do his will." Here, ζωγρέω describes a negative, oppressive form of captivity. The "captor" is the devil, and the "captives" are those who have fallen into his trap, being compelled to do his will. This context highlights spiritual bondage and the need for divine intervention (repentance) to break free from such ensnarement.
The juxtaposition of these two occurrences reveals the dual potential of "capturing" in the spiritual realm: one for divine purpose and liberation, the other for demonic subjugation and spiritual death.
### Related Words & Concepts
The concept of "catching" or "ensnaring" is present in various forms in the biblical text, often carrying different nuances:
* **ἀγρεύω (agreúō, `{{G64}}`)**: While not directly used in the New Testament, this is the root verb for hunting or catching, forming part of ζωγρέω.
* **θηρεύω (thēreúō, `{{G2334}}`)**: To hunt, catch wild beasts; metaphorically, to ensnare or entrap.
* **παγιδεύω (pagideúō, `{{G3802}}`)**: To set a trap, to ensnare, often implying deceit or malicious intent, as seen in attempts to trap Jesus with questions.
* **συλλαμβάνω (syllambánō, `{{G4815}}`)**: To seize, arrest, or catch, often in the context of apprehending criminals or taking hold of something.
* **ἁλιεύς (halieús, `{{G25}}`)**: Fisherman, directly related to the context of [[Luke 5:10]] and the transformation of Peter's vocation.
Theological concepts closely related to ζωγρέω include:
* **Evangelism and Discipleship**: The "catching of men" for the Kingdom.
* **Spiritual Warfare**: The reality of demonic influence and the devil's attempts to ensnare believers.
* **Repentance and Liberation**: The means by which one escapes spiritual captivity.
* **Divine Calling**: The sovereign initiative of God in calling individuals to His service.
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of ζωγρέω lies in its powerful illustration of two fundamental spiritual realities:
Firstly, in [[Luke 5:10]], it underscores the **transformative power of the Gospel and the divine calling to ministry**. Jesus redefines Peter's earthly profession, elevating it to a spiritual enterprise. "Catching men" is not about coercion or force, but about drawing individuals into a life-giving relationship with God. It signifies a "capture" that leads to ultimate freedom and purpose, a rescue from the futility of a life apart from God. This imagery highlights the active, purposeful nature of God's mission through His chosen instruments.
Secondly, in [[2 Timothy 2:26]], ζωγρέω starkly portrays the **reality of spiritual bondage and the insidious work of the devil**. Here, the "capture" is malicious, leading to enslavement to the devil's will. It serves as a sober reminder of the spiritual dangers that exist and the potential for believers to be led astray if they are not vigilant. The passage emphasizes that liberation from this demonic snare is not achieved by human strength alone but requires divine grace, specifically God granting repentance. This highlights God's sovereignty even in the context of human sin and spiritual captivity, offering a path to deliverance.
Together, these two uses of ζωγρέω encapsulate the profound spiritual battle for the souls of humanity: the divine invitation to life and freedom versus the demonic deception leading to bondage and spiritual death.
### Summary
The Greek verb ζωγρέω (zōgréō, `{{G2221}}`), meaning "to take alive" or "to capture/ensnare," provides a vivid linguistic lens through which to understand two critical aspects of the New Testament's spiritual landscape. In [[Luke 5:10]], it beautifully illustrates the divine call to evangelism, where disciples become "fishers of men," drawing individuals into the life-giving embrace of God's kingdom. This "capture" leads to salvation and purpose. Conversely, in [[2 Timothy 2:26]], the word depicts the grim reality of spiritual bondage, where individuals are "taken captive" by the devil to fulfill his destructive will. This highlights the ever-present danger of spiritual deception and the necessity of God-granted repentance for liberation. Thus, ζωγρέω stands as a powerful descriptor of both the glorious mission of God to gather His people and the perilous reality of the enemy's attempts to ensnare them.
TRV