γηράσκω

I become old, grow old

Definition

The verb γηράσκω means 'to grow old,' 'to become aged,' or 'to advance in years.' It describes the natural, physical process of aging. In its two New Testament occurrences, it carries this literal sense. In John 21:18, Jesus uses it to prophesy Peter's future, contrasting the freedom of youth with the physical constraints of old age. In Hebrews 8:13, the author employs it metaphorically, stating that the old covenant is 'growing old' and nearing disappearance, applying the concept of aging to an institution rather than a person.

Biblical Usage

This word is used only twice in the New Testament. It appears once in a narrative Gospel (John) and once in an epistle (Hebrews). In John 21:18, it is used in a literal, prophetic context about human aging. In Hebrews 8:13, it is used in a theological argument, applying the concept of aging and obsolescence to the old covenant system, declaring it obsolete and ready to vanish.

Etymology

Derived from the Greek noun γῆρας (gēras, G1094), meaning 'old age.' It is related to the adjective γέρων (gerōn), meaning 'old man.' The verb form γηράσκω is the inceptive form, meaning 'to begin to be old' or 'to enter into old age,' emphasizing the process rather than the state.

Semantic Range

While primarily a physical term, its metaphorical use in Hebrews 8:13 is theologically significant. It illustrates the transitional nature of the old covenant under the Mosaic law, portraying it not as eternally valid but as something that has served its purpose and is being superseded by the new covenant in Christ. This enriches reading by showing how the author uses a universal human experience (aging) to explain a profound spiritual transition.

In the ancient Greco-Roman world, old age was often associated with wisdom and respect, but also with physical decline and a loss of strength and autonomy, as reflected in John 21:18. The metaphorical application in Hebrews would resonate with an understanding that what is old may be venerable but is also subject to decay and replacement.

παλαιόω (palaioō, G3822) — means 'to make old,' 'declare obsolete'; used in Hebrews 8:13 in parallel with γηράσκω. ἀρχαῖος (archaios, G744) — an adjective meaning 'ancient,' 'old' in terms of time, not the process of aging.

Word Details

Scripture References