Greek · Strong's G756
ἄρχομαι
árchomai (AR-kho-mai)
verb
To begin or commence an action, indicating the start of an event or process.
The Greek verb árchomai primarily denotes the initiation of an action or event. It can describe a physical or verbal beginning, often indicating the point at which something starts to happen. Unlike some other words that focus on a primary or foundational commencement, árchomai emphasizes the immediate onset of an activity. It is frequently used in narrative contexts to mark the commencement of a new phase, a speech, or a particular deed, highlighting the transition from a state of inaction to one of activity.
In the New Testament, árchomai is often used in conjunction with an infinitive to describe who or what began to perform a certain action. This construction is common in the Gospels to introduce Jesus's teachings or miracles, or the actions of his disciples and others around him. For example, it is used when Jesus "began to teach" (Mark 6:2) or when Peter "began to rebuke" Jesus (Mark 8:32). This usage underscores the dynamic and unfolding nature of the events being described.
The theological weight of árchomai is not in conveying a profound theological concept itself, but rather in its role in presenting the progression of God’s redemptive plan and the actions of key figures within it. It serves as a narrative device that points to the beginning of significant moments in the biblical story, such as the commencement of Jesus's ministry, the disciples’ activities, or even the hostile actions of opponents. The verb is a straightforward indicator of a starting point, helping the reader track the sequence of events and the unfolding drama within the biblical text.
Common English renderings
- begin
- began
- commence
Key verses
"And as these went their way, Jesus began to say unto the multitudes concerning John, What went ye out into the wilderness to behold? a reed shaken with the wind?"
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"But when he saw the wind, he was afraid; and beginning to sink, he cried out, saying, Lord, save me."
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"And when the sabbath was come, he began to teach in the synagogue: and many hearing him were astonished, saying, Whence hath this man these things? and, What is the wisdom that is given unto this man, and what mean such mighty works wrought by his hands?"
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"And they were on the way, going up to Jerusalem; and Jesus was going before them: and they were amazed; and they that followed were afraid. And he took again the twelve, and began to tell them the things that were to happen unto him,"
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"But they were the more urgent, saying, He stirreth up the people, teaching throughout all Judæa, and beginning from Galilee even unto this place."
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"And when he was called, Tertullus began to accuse him, saying, Seeing that by thee we enjoy much peace, and that by thy providence evils are corrected for this nation,"
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Related words