middle voice of apparently a prolonged form of an obsolete primary (compare ὄρος); to stretch oneself, i.e. reach out after (long for):--covet after, desire.
### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek verb ὀρέγομαι (orégomai, `{{G3713}}`) fundamentally conveys the idea of "stretching oneself out" or "reaching out after something." Derived from an obsolete primary root implying extension, its use in the middle voice is significant. This grammatical voice indicates that the action is performed by the subject for their own benefit, interest, or with an internal focus. Thus, ὀρέγομαι denotes an internal, intense longing, aspiration, or desire that propels one to reach for an object. Its semantic range extends from a noble and commendable aspiration to a destructive and sinful covetousness, with the specific connotation determined entirely by the context and the nature of the object desired. It implies an active, intentional pursuit or yearning, rather than a passive wish.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The term ὀρέγομαι appears three times in the New Testament, each instance providing crucial insight into its varied application:
1. **[[1 Timothy 3:1]]**: "If anyone *aspires* to the office of overseer, he desires a good work." Here, ὀρέγομαι is used in a positive sense, describing a commendable and legitimate desire for spiritual leadership within the church. The aspiration is not for personal gain or power, but for "a good work" (καλοῦ ἔργου), implying a desire to serve and shepherd God's people. This context validates a godly ambition directed towards ministry.
2. **[[1 Timothy 6:10]]**: "For the love of money is a root of all sorts of evil, and some by *longing for* it have wandered away from the faith and pierced themselves with many griefs." In stark contrast to the first instance, ὀρέγομαι here describes a destructive and sinful desire. The object of desire is money (φιλαργυρία, "love of money"), which leads to apostasy and suffering. This usage aligns with the concept of covetousness, highlighting how misdirected longing can lead to spiritual ruin.
3. **[[Hebrews 11:16]]**: "But as it is, they *desire* a better country, that is, a heavenly one. Therefore God is not ashamed to be called their God, for he has prepared a city for them." This occurrence again uses ὀρέγομαι in a positive, indeed, a highly spiritual sense. It describes the deep, abiding longing of the patriarchs and faithful for their true, heavenly homeland. This desire is a mark of their faith and hope, demonstrating a spiritual orientation that transcends earthly attachments and looks forward to God's ultimate promise.
These three contexts demonstrate the versatility of ὀρέγομαι, showing that the moral quality of the "stretching out" or "longing" is determined by its object and the heart's motivation.
### Related Words & Concepts
ὀρέγομαι shares conceptual space with several other Greek words for desire, but with distinct nuances:
* **ἐπιθυμέω (epithumeō, `{{G1937}}`)**: This word often carries a negative connotation, referring to lust or sinful cravings (e.g., [[Matthew 5:28]], [[Romans 7:7]]). However, it can also denote a neutral or even positive desire (e.g., [[Luke 22:15]] - Jesus desiring to eat the Passover). While both ὀρέγομαι and ἐπιθυμέω express strong desire, ὀρέγομαι often implies a more active "reaching out" or "striving for," whereas ἐπιθυμέω can be more about an internal longing or craving.
* **ζητέω (zēteō, `{{G2212}}`)**: To seek or search for. While a broader term, it can overlap when the seeking is driven by strong desire.
* **ποθέω (potheō, `{{G4363}}`)**: To long for, yearn for, often with an emotional undertone of affection or missing someone/something. ὀρέγομαι is more about active aspiration.
In the Old Testament, the Hebrew word **חָמַד (chamad, `{{H2530}}`)**, translated as "covet" in the Decalogue ([[Exodus 20:17]]), captures the negative aspect of intense, illicit desire seen in [[1 Timothy 6:10]]. The concept of "ambition" or "aspiration" also relates, highlighting that not all ambition is inherently sinful; it depends on its object and ultimate goal.
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of ὀρέγομαι lies in its portrayal of human desire as a powerful, morally neutral force, whose spiritual value is entirely dependent on its object and the disposition of the heart.
1. **The Nature of Desire**: The word underscores that desire itself is not inherently evil. It is a fundamental aspect of human existence, a driving force that can be directed towards noble or ignoble ends.
2. **Sanctified Aspiration**: [[1 Timothy 3:1]] reveals that there is a legitimate and even divinely approved form of aspiration. Desiring "a good work" in ministry is a Spirit-prompted longing that aligns with God's purposes, demonstrating that zeal for service is commendable. This contrasts sharply with worldly ambition driven by ego or power.
3. **The Peril of Misdirected Desire**: [[1 Timothy 6:10]] serves as a potent warning against idolatry, specifically the worship of wealth. When the human capacity for intense longing is directed towards temporal possessions, it becomes "the root of all sorts of evil," leading to spiritual shipwreck and profound sorrow. This highlights the critical importance of discerning and purifying one's desires.
4. **Eschatological Hope**: [[Hebrews 11:16]] elevates ὀρέγομαι to its highest theological expression, depicting the longing for the heavenly country as a hallmark of true faith. This desire is not escapism but a profound spiritual orientation towards God's ultimate kingdom, demonstrating that the truest and most fulfilling desires are those fixed on eternal realities. It is a desire that God honors and fulfills.
### Summary
ὀρέγομαι (orégomai, `{{G3713}}`) describes the act of "stretching oneself out" or "reaching out after," conveying an intense longing, aspiration, or desire. Its meaning is highly contextual, ranging from a commendable pursuit of spiritual service ([[1 Timothy 3:1]]) to a destructive covetousness for material gain ([[1 Timothy 6:10]]), and a profound, faith-filled yearning for a heavenly homeland ([[Hebrews 11:16]]). The word powerfully illustrates that human desire, while a potent force, is morally neutral in itself; its goodness or evil is determined by the object towards which it is directed and the underlying motivation. Thus, ὀρέγομαι serves as a critical term for understanding the nature of human aspiration, the perils of idolatry, and the blessedness of desires rightly fixed on God and His eternal purposes.
TRV