### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek verb ἀργέω (argéō, `{{G691}}`) is derived from the adjective ἀργός (argós, `{{G692}}`), which literally means "without work" (from a- "not" and ἔργον (érgon, `{{G2041}}`) "work"). Therefore, the core meaning of ἀργέω is "to be inactive," "to be idle," or "to be unemployed." From this literal sense, it extends figuratively to mean "to delay" or "to linger," as a state of inactivity naturally leads to a postponement of action or an extended period of waiting. The word thus conveys a sense of non-progress or a lack of timely engagement.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The verb ἀργέω (argéō, `{{G691}}`) appears only once in the New Testament, in the Second Epistle of Peter:
* **[[2 Peter 2:3]]**: "And in their greed these teachers will exploit you with fabricated stories. Their condemnation has long been hanging over them, and their destruction does not *linger*."
In this solitary occurrence, ἀργέω is used in the negative ("οὐκ ἀργεῖ," "does not linger"). The context is Peter's stern warning against false teachers who will bring destructive heresies and exploit believers for gain. The phrase "their condemnation has long been hanging over them" (ἡ κρίσις αὐτοῖς ἔκπαλαι οὐκ ἀργεῖ) emphasizes the certainty and imminence of God's judgment upon these deceivers. The negative "does not linger" powerfully conveys that divine justice will not be delayed; it is already in motion and will swiftly come to pass. This usage underscores the active and decisive nature of God's judgment, contrasting with any human perception of God's patience as indifference or inaction.
### Related Words & Concepts
Understanding ἀργέω (argéō, `{{G691}}`) is greatly aided by examining its root and related terms:
* **ἀργός (argós, `{{G692}}`):** The adjective from which ἀργέω is derived, meaning "idle," "lazy," "unprofitable," or "useless." This adjective is found in passages like [[Matthew 12:36]] ("every idle word") and [[Titus 1:12]] ("lazy gluttons"). Its presence illuminates the underlying concept of inactivity or fruitlessness inherent in ἀργέω.
* **ἀργία (argía, `{{G690}}`):** The noun form, meaning "idleness" or "laziness." While not found in the New Testament, it reinforces the semantic field.
* **βραδύνω (bradýnō, `{{G1021}}`):** Meaning "to be slow," "to delay," or "to tarry." This word is notably used in [[2 Peter 3:9]] concerning the Lord's return, where it states, "The Lord is not slow (βραδύνει) in keeping his promise, as some understand slowness." While both ἀργέω and βραδύνω can imply delay, ἀργέω emphasizes a state of idleness leading to delay, whereas βραδύνω focuses more on the pace or duration of an action.
* **ὀκνέω (oknéō, `{{G3689}}`):** "To hesitate," "to shrink from," or "to delay." This term often implies a reluctance or fear that leads to postponement.
The concept of diligence stands in direct opposition to the idleness implied by ἀργέω.
### Theological Significance
The singular use of ἀργέω in [[2 Peter 2:3]] carries profound theological weight, primarily concerning the nature of divine judgment and God's sovereignty:
* **Certainty of Divine Judgment:** The declaration that the condemnation of false teachers "does not linger" (οὐκ ἀργεῖ) underscores the absolute certainty and inevitability of God's righteous judgment. It is not a future possibility but an impending reality.
* **Divine Imminence and Active Sovereignty:** This verse highlights God's active involvement in the world and His precise timing. There is no divine procrastination or oversight regarding sin and injustice. God is not idle concerning the wickedness of humanity, particularly those who corrupt His truth.
* **Contrast with Human Delay:** While humans might delay justice, postpone action, or assume God's patience equates to indifference, this verse firmly refutes such notions. God's justice is neither idle nor slow in the sense of being neglectful.
* **Warning and Assurance:** For the false teachers, it serves as a stark warning that their exploitation and deception will meet swift and certain retribution. For the faithful who are being exploited, it offers profound comfort and assurance that God sees their suffering and will bring about justice without delay. The Lord's judgment is not a passive waiting but an active, unfolding decree.
### Summary
The Greek verb ἀργέω (argéō, `{{G691}}`), rooted in ἀργός (argós, `{{G692}}`) meaning "idle" or "inactive," primarily signifies "to be idle" or "to delay." Its sole New Testament appearance in [[2 Peter 2:3]] is critical, where it asserts that the destruction of false teachers "does not linger." This powerful negative construction emphasizes the absolute certainty and divine imminence of God's righteous judgment. It communicates that God's justice is not passive or postponed, but active, precise, and inevitable. Thus, ἀργέω in this context underscores God's unwavering sovereignty and His commitment to executing His decrees without delay, serving as both a solemn warning to the unrighteous and a steadfast assurance to the faithful.
TRV