Greek · G3579 · unreviewed

ξενίζω

To be a host (passively, a guest); by implication, be (make, appear) strange

These lexicon entries are being actively developed. If you notice missing content, incorrect definitions, or have suggestions, we'd love to hear from you. Share a note on our Connect page and include a screenshot if helpful.

ξενίζω G3579
Pronunciation xenízō

What does ξενίζω (xenízō) mean in the Bible?

ξενίζω (xenízō) is a Greek word meaning "to be a host (passively, a guest); by implication, be (make, appear) strange". ξενίζω (ξένος), [in LXX: Est.

Full entry for ξενίζω (G3579) · Browse the biblical lexicon

Meaning

to be a host (passively, a guest); by implication, be (make, appear) strange
Extended definition

Host/guest relationship shifts to "surprise by strangeness"; both senses involve unexpected encounter.

(ξένος), [in LXX: Est.3:13, Sir.29:25, 2Ma.9:6, 3Ma.7:3 * ;]

1to receive as a guest, entertain: with accusative of person(s), Act.10:23 28:7, Heb.13:2; pass., Act.10:6, 18 10:32 21:16.
2In late writers (Polyb., al.; 2Mac, l.with), to surprise, astonish by strangeness: Act.17:20; pass., 1Pe.4:4 4:12.
Source: STEPBible TBESG + Abbott-Smith
Grammatical Forms

How mood, tense, and voice shift the force of this verb in context.

Tenses
Present Aorist
Voices
Passive Active
Indicative states a fact or reality
Present Passive Acts 10:6 · Acts 10:18 · Acts 10:32 · 1 Pet 4:4
Aorist Active Acts 10:23 · Acts 28:7
Participle verbal adjective — the action as a modifying quality
Present Active Acts 17:20
Aorist Active Heb 13:2
Subjunctive possibility, probability, or purpose
Aorist Passive Acts 21:16
Imperative command or strong request
Present Passive 1 Pet 4:12
Discourse Aspect
Word Pictures (Robertson)

A.T. Robertson's Word Pictures in the New Testament (1930–31) discusses this term in the following chapters. Open any chapter and go to the Word Pictures tab to read his verse-by-verse commentary.

A.T. Robertson, Word Pictures in the New Testament (1930–31) — public domain

Sources