ἐκγαμίζω

I give in marriage, marry

Definition

The verb ἐκγαμίζω means 'to give in marriage' or 'to marry off,' specifically referring to the act of arranging or giving someone (typically a daughter or ward) in marriage to another. In the New Testament, it is used in two distinct senses: first, to describe the ordinary human practice of marriage, as seen in Matthew 24:38 and Luke 17:27, where people are 'marrying and being given in marriage' before the flood. Second, it is used in a negative or contrasting sense regarding the resurrection life, where in Matthew 22:30, Jesus states that in heaven they 'neither marry nor are given in marriage.' In 1 Corinthians 7:38, Paul uses it positively for the act of giving a virgin in marriage, contrasting it with the decision to keep her unmarried.

Biblical Usage

This word appears only four times in the New Testament, across the Gospels and Paul's letters. It is used in eschatological contexts in Matthew 24:38 and Luke 17:27 to describe the normal, preoccupied social life preceding divine judgment. In Matthew 22:30, it is used to contrast earthly marriage with the state of the resurrected. In 1 Corinthians 7:38, it is used in a practical, pastoral context concerning the care of virgins. The usage consistently involves a third party (a father or guardian) who does the 'giving,' highlighting the social structure of arranged marriages.

Etymology

Derived from the preposition ἐκ (ek, meaning 'out of') and the verb γαμίζω (gamizō, meaning 'to give in marriage'). Γαμίζω itself comes from the root γάμος (gamos, 'marriage' or 'wedding'). Thus, ἐκγαμίζω carries the sense of bringing someone out from one state (e.g., the father's household) into the state of marriage.

Semantic Range

This word is theologically significant as it helps clarify Jesus' teaching on the nature of the resurrection. In Matthew 22:30, the negation of marrying and being given in marriage (ἐκγαμίζω) underscores that the resurrected state transcends earthly social and procreative institutions, focusing on a life akin to angels in God's presence. In 1 Corinthians 7:38, its use informs Paul's discussion on singleness and marriage, highlighting that both states—giving in marriage or remaining single—are valid and can be done 'in the Lord.' Understanding this specific term enriches reading by clarifying that the text refers to the social act of arranging marriage, not merely the state of being married.

In the first-century Greco-Roman and Jewish world, marriage was often an arranged social and economic transaction between families, not merely a personal romantic choice. The verb ἐκγαμίζω reflects this cultural reality, where a father or guardian had the authority to 'give' a daughter in marriage. This contrasts with many modern Western understandings of marriage based primarily on mutual consent and romantic love. The word's usage assumes this patriarchal family structure.

γαμέω (gameō, G1060) — a more general verb meaning 'to marry' or 'to take a wife,' focusing on the act of the marrying party itself. γαμίζω (gamizō, G1548) — the root verb meaning 'to give in marriage,' nearly identical in meaning but without the ἐκ prefix; ἐκγαμίζω may emphasize the transition 'out of' one's prior state.

Word Details

Scripture References