διεγείρω

I wake out of sleep, I arouse

Definition

The verb διεγείρω means to wake someone from sleep, to arouse, or to stir up. In its literal sense, it describes physically waking someone, as when the disciples woke Jesus during the storm on the Sea of Galilee (Mark 4:38, Luke 8:24). In a figurative sense, it means to rouse or stimulate someone to action or thought. For example, Peter uses it to 'stir up' or remind his readers of the truth they already know (2 Peter 1:13, 3:1). The word can also describe the stirring up of natural forces, like the wind in John 6:18.

Biblical Usage

This verb is used seven times in the New Testament, appearing in the Gospels and 2 Peter. In the Gospels (Matthew 1:24, Mark 4:38-39, Luke 8:24, John 6:18), it is used in narrative contexts, primarily for the literal act of waking from sleep or the stirring of a storm. In 2 Peter (1:13, 3:1), the apostle uses it metaphorically to describe his pastoral intent to arouse or remind his readers spiritually, creating a pattern where physical action in the Gospels parallels spiritual exhortation in the epistles.

Etymology

Derived from the preposition διά (dia), often meaning 'through' or 'thoroughly,' and the verb ἐγείρω (egeirō, G1453), meaning 'to wake, to raise up.' The compound form διεγείρω thus intensifies the base meaning, suggesting a thorough or complete arousing, whether from sleep, inactivity, or complacency.

Semantic Range

The word bridges physical and spiritual reality. Jesus's literal waking by the disciples contrasts with his divine authority to calm the storm, highlighting his humanity and lordship. In 2 Peter, the term is key for understanding discipleship as an active, reminded faith, not a passive state. It underscores the biblical theme that God's people often need to be 'stirred up' to remember truth and live faithfully.

In a culture without artificial alarms, the act of waking someone was a direct, personal intervention, often urgent (like in a storm-tossed boat). The figurative use to 'stir up' someone's mind would resonate in Hellenistic culture, which valued rhetoric and philosophical exhortation aimed at provoking action or recollection.

ἐγείρω (egeirō, G1453) — The simpler root, often used for waking or, more theologically, for resurrection. | ἐξυπνίζω (exypnizō, G1852) — To wake up, but used only once (Jonah 1:6 LXX) and not in the NT. | παρακαλέω (parakaleō, G3870) — To exhort or encourage, a broader term for urging action, where διεγείρω implies arousing from inactivity.

Word Details

Scripture References