ἔπωperhaps akin (or identical) with ῥέω (through the idea of pouring forth); to utter, i.e. speak or say:--command, make, say, speak (of). Compare λέγω.
Transliteration:rhéō
Pronunciation:er-eh'-o
Detailed Word Study
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek lemma ῥέω (rhéō), Strong's number `{{G4483}}`, fundamentally signifies "to utter," "to speak," or "to say." Its semantic range extends beyond mere vocalization to encompass the act of declaring, commanding, or making a statement. The provided definition notes a potential kinship or identity with the verb ῥέω (Strong's number `{{G4482}}`), which means "to flow." This connection is profoundly insightful, suggesting that speech, particularly authoritative or divine speech, is likened to something "pouring forth" – an unhindered, potent emanation. This imagery imbues the act of speaking with a sense of natural, forceful release, contrasting with a more deliberate or calculated articulation. Thus, ῥέω often emphasizes the directness and spontaneous nature of the utterance, focusing on the content declared as it issues forth. It can convey a sense of immediacy and divine authority when applied to God's pronouncements or Christ's teachings.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
While specific occurrences require detailed lexical study, the nature of ῥέω (rhéō) suggests its use in contexts where the act of speaking carries significant weight or consequence. It is frequently employed to describe:
1. **Divine Pronouncements:** The creative and redemptive acts of God are often initiated by His word. When God "says" something, it is not merely a suggestion but an effective declaration that brings about reality. This verb captures the power inherent in the divine utterance, as when God speaks creation into being or issues a command. The very act of God "speaking" is foundational to revelation and covenant.
2. **Authoritative Teachings of Jesus:** The words of Jesus are presented as life-giving and authoritative. When Jesus "speaks" or "says" something, it carries the weight of divine truth and often includes commands or pronouncements of blessing and judgment. His words are not merely human opinions but divine declarations that demand a response. For example, His pronouncements in the Sermon on the Mount, such as "But I say to you..." [[Matthew 5:21]], convey absolute authority.
3. **Prophetic Utterances:** The prophets were God's spokespersons, uttering the words that God put into their mouths. ῥέω would aptly describe the act of delivering these divine messages, emphasizing that the words originated from God and were simply "poured forth" through the prophet.
4. **Formal Declarations or Commands:** Beyond divine speech, ῥέω can also denote human speech that is formal, declarative, or commanding in nature. It highlights the direct and often impactful nature of the statement, whether it is a testimony, a decree, or a simple instruction.
Across these contexts, the common thread is the emphasis on the *act* of utterance and the *content* being declared, often with an underlying sense of authority, truth, or divine origin.
### Related Words & Concepts
The definition explicitly invites comparison with `{{G3004}}` (λέγω, legō), another common Greek verb for "to speak" or "to say." While both verbs share a broad semantic overlap, subtle distinctions exist. `{{G3004}}` (λέγω) often implies a more deliberate selection and arrangement of words, a logical discourse, or a reasoned argument. In contrast, `{{G4483}}` (ῥέω) tends to emphasize the simple act of utterance, the "pouring forth" of words, perhaps with less focus on the structure or reasoning behind them, and more on the directness and impact of the statement itself.
Other related Greek terms for speech include:
* `{{G2980}}` (λαλέω, laleō): Often refers to the physical act of speaking, making sounds, or conversing. It can be more general than ῥέω, encompassing various forms of vocalization.
* `{{G5346}}` (φημί, phēmi): Means "to say," "to declare," often used in direct speech or to introduce a quotation.
Theologically, ῥέω connects to concepts such as:
* **The Word of God (Λόγος):** The very essence of divine communication and revelation.
* **Divine Command:** The authoritative will of God expressed verbally.
* **Prophecy:** The utterance of God's message through human agents.
* **Truth:** That which is declared and revealed by God.
* **Creation by Fiat:** The idea that God spoke, and it was so.
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of ῥέω (rhéō) is profound, particularly in its capacity to describe divine speech. The imagery of words "pouring forth" from God underscores the unhindered, potent, and life-giving nature of His communication. It speaks to:
1. **The Efficacy of God's Word:** God's utterances are not empty sounds but performative acts. When God "says" something, it brings about what is declared, whether it is creation, judgment, or salvation. This highlights the inherent power and authority of the divine voice.
2. **Revelation and Relationship:** God reveals Himself to humanity primarily through His spoken word. This "pouring forth" of divine truth establishes a relationship, inviting humanity to hear, understand, and respond. It is through His word that God makes His will known and draws humanity into covenant.
3. **Christ as the Incarnate Word:** Jesus Christ is the ultimate "Word" of God, the divine utterance made flesh. His spoken words, described by ῥέω, are thus imbued with the same divine authority and efficacy as the Father's. His teachings are not mere human philosophy but the very words of eternal life, flowing forth from the divine source.
4. **The Foundation of Faith:** Faith comes by hearing the word of Christ, the word that is "poured forth." The act of speaking, as conveyed by ῥέω, is central to the transmission of the gospel message, which calls for a response of belief and obedience.
### Summary
The Greek verb ῥέω (rhéō), Strong's number `{{G4483}}`, primarily means "to utter," "to speak," or "to say," carrying the evocative connotation of words "pouring forth." This imagery suggests an unhindered, direct, and often authoritative emanation of speech. In biblical contexts, ῥέω is crucial for understanding divine pronouncements, the authoritative teachings of Jesus, and prophetic utterances. It emphasizes the directness and inherent power of the spoken word, distinguishing it from other verbs for "speaking" like `{{G3004}}` (λέγω) by focusing on the act of utterance itself rather than the deliberation or arrangement of words. Theologically, ῥέω underscores the efficacy and transformative power of God's word, highlighting its role in creation, revelation, and the establishment of covenant. It portrays God's communication as a potent, life-giving outpouring, central to the very nature of divine action and the foundation of faith.
TRV