δεῦτε

come hither, come, hither

Definition

The Greek particle δεῦτε is a plural imperative form meaning 'come here' or 'come now,' functioning as a direct, often urgent, invitation or summons. It is used by Jesus to call disciples to follow him (Matthew 4:19, Mark 1:17) and to invite the weary to find rest in him (Matthew 11:28). In parables, it can carry a sense of command or enticement, as when the landowner sends for the tenants (Matthew 21:38) or the king calls guests to the wedding feast (Matthew 22:4). It also appears in the angel's announcement at the empty tomb, 'Come, see the place where he lay' (Matthew 28:6).

Biblical Usage

δεῦτε is used 13 times in the New Testament, primarily in the Gospels of Matthew (7 times) and Mark (2 times). Its usage consistently involves a direct address to a group, issuing an invitation, command, or summons to action or movement. Key patterns include Jesus's calls to discipleship and rest, and characters in parables summoning others. It is an exclamatory word that creates immediacy and personal engagement.

Etymology

Derived from the adverb δεῦρο ('hither'), δεῦτε is the plural imperative form, literally meaning 'come hither!' It is related to the verb ἔρχομαι (erchomai, G2064) meaning 'to come,' but functions as a standalone particle of summons. Its form emphasizes movement toward the speaker.

Semantic Range

This word is theologically significant as it captures the personal, commanding, and gracious call of Jesus. In passages like Matthew 11:28, it embodies the gospel invitation to all who are burdened. In the Great Commission context of Matthew 28:6, it transitions to an invitation to witness the resurrection. Understanding this Greek term highlights the directness and authority of divine summons, enriching the reader's sense of being personally addressed by Christ's words.

In its original setting, δεῦτε was a common, direct form of address used to call a group. Its use by Jesus and in parables would have been heard as a familiar yet potent summons, carrying the weight of the speaker's authority. The cultural expectation was a prompt, obedient response to such a call, especially from a figure of respect or power.

ἔρχομαι (erchomai, G2064) — the standard verb 'to come,' whereas δεῦτε is a specific imperative particle of summons. προσέρχομαι (proserchomai, G4334) — 'to come to' or 'approach,' often with a sense of drawing near respectfully. ἀκολουθέω (akoloutheō, G190) — 'to follow,' used in similar disciple-calling contexts but focusing on the act of following rather than the initial summons.

Word Details

Scripture References