Berean Strong's Lexicon argeó: To be idle, to be inactive, to be lazy Original Word: ἀργέω Word Origin: Derived from the Greek adjective ἀργός (argos), meaning "idle" or "inactive." Corresponding Greek / Hebrew Entries: While there is no direct Hebrew equivalent for ἀργέω, the concept of idleness can be related to Hebrew words like רָפָה (raphah), meaning "to slacken" or "to be idle," as seen in Proverbs 18:9. Usage: The verb ἀργέω (argeó) is used in the New Testament to describe a state of inactivity or idleness. It often carries a negative connotation, implying laziness or a failure to fulfill one's duties. In the context of Christian teaching, it serves as a warning against spiritual and moral complacency. Cultural and Historical Background: In the Greco-Roman world, idleness was often viewed negatively, associated with a lack of productivity and responsibility. The early Christian community, influenced by Jewish work ethics and the teachings of Jesus, emphasized diligence and active service. Idleness was seen as contrary to the Christian life, which called for active faith and good works. HELPS Word-studies 691 argéō (from 692 /argós, "idle") – properly, motionless (at rest); doing nothing ("inactive"). NAS Exhaustive Concordance Word Originfrom argos Definition to be idle NASB Translation idle (1). Thayer's Greek Lexicon STRONGS NT 691: ἀργέωἀργέω, ἀργῷ; (to be ἀργός, which see); to be idle, inactive; contextually, to linger, delay: 2 Peter 2:3 οἷς τό κρίμα ἔκπαλαι οὐκ ἀργεῖ, i. e. whose punishment has long been impending and will shortly fall. (In Greek writings from Sophocles down.) Strong's Exhaustive Concordance linger. From argos; to be idle, i.e. (figuratively) to delay -- linger. see GREEK argos Forms and Transliterations αργει ἀργεῖ αργία αργίαν αργίας αργούν ήργησαν ήργησε argei argeîLinks Interlinear Greek • Interlinear Hebrew • Strong's Numbers • Englishman's Greek Concordance • Englishman's Hebrew Concordance • Parallel Texts |