Lexical Summary theatrizó: To make a spectacle of, to expose publicly, to put on display. Original Word: θεατρίζω Strong's Exhaustive Concordance to put to shame, expose publiclyFrom theatron; to expose as a spectacle -- make a gazing stock. see GREEK theatron HELPS Word-studies Cognate: 2301 theatrízō (from 2302 /théatron, "theatre") – to ridicule, making a public spectacle out of someone, putting them on exhibit for public jest and mockery (used only in Heb 10:33). See 2300 (theáomai). NAS Exhaustive Concordance Word Originfrom theatron Definition to make a spectacle of NASB Translation made a public spectacle (1), public spectacle (1). Thayer's Greek Lexicon STRONGS NT 2301: θεατρίζωθεατρίζω: (θέατρον, which see); properly, to bring upon the stage; hence, to set forth as a spectacle, expose to contempt; passive, present participle θεατριζόμενος (A. V. being made a gazing-stock), Hebrews 10:33. (Several times also in ecclesiastical and Byzantine writings (cf. Sophocles' Lexicon, under the word); but in the same sense ἐκθεατρίζω in Polybius 3, 91, 10; others; (cf. Winers Grammar, 25 (24) note; also Tdf. edition 7 Proleg., p. 59 ff).) Topical Lexicon Concept Overview The verb behind Strong’s 2301 conveys the act of putting someone “on stage” before a watching crowd, turning the person into a living drama for public scrutiny, ridicule, or admiration. The image evokes the Roman theater and arena where spectators judged every gesture. Scripture appropriates this cultural picture to describe the lot of believers who, by their fidelity to Christ, become visible testaments of the gospel before both hostile and sympathetic audiences. Biblical Occurrence: Hebrews 10:33 “Sometimes you were publicly exposed to ridicule and persecution; at other times you were partners with those who were so treated.” (Hebrews 10:33) 1. Context. Hebrews addresses Jewish Christians tempted to abandon their confession under mounting pressure. The writer reminds them how, earlier in their walk, they were literally “put on stage” for society’s mockery yet did not shrink back. Related Imagery in Scripture • 1 Corinthians 4:9. “For it seems to me that God has displayed us apostles at the end of the procession, like those sentenced to die in the arena; we have been made a spectacle to the whole world, to angels as well as to men.” The cognate noun “spectacle” broadens the thought—from one congregation in Hebrews to the universal witness of the apostles. Historical Context of Public Spectacle 1. Greco-Roman theatres and games drew crowds from every social class. Public punishment, particularly of criminals and prisoners of war, was routine entertainment. Theological Reflections • Identification with Christ. Jesus Himself was paraded before Herod’s soldiers and the crowds (Luke 23:35–36). To be “theatricalized” for His name unites the church with her Lord’s passion. Pastoral and Ministry Insights 1. Encourage perseverance. Reminding believers of past faithfulness under public scorn helps frame current trials as part of a continuing testimony. Summary Strong’s 2301 captures a vivid New Testament picture: God’s people, thrust into the world’s theater, display the gospel through steadfast faith amid ridicule. Their temporary shame parallels Christ’s own and prefigures the ultimate moment when He will unveil His glory—and theirs—before the same watching universe. Forms and Transliterations θεατριζομενοι θεατριζόμενοι theatrizomenoi theatrizómenoiLinks Interlinear Greek • Interlinear Hebrew • Strong's Numbers • Englishman's Greek Concordance • Englishman's Hebrew Concordance • Parallel TextsEnglishman's Concordance Hebrews 10:33 V-PPM/P-NMPGRK: καὶ θλίψεσιν θεατριζόμενοι τοῦτο δὲ NAS: partly by being made a public spectacle through reproaches KJV: Partly, whilst ye were made a gazingstock both INT: and tribulations being made a spectacle this moreover |
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