αἱρετίζω (ahiretizō)
ahiretizō
to choose
Quick Reference
- Language
- Koine Greek
- Testament
- New Testament
- Occurrences
- 1 verses
- Root
- —
Word Overview
The verb aihretizō means to choose, specifically in the sense of selecting someone to belong to a group or sect. It appears only once in the New Testament, in Matthew 12:18, where it translates the Hebrew word bāchar from Isaiah 42:1. In this context, God chooses His servant, indicating a deliberate selection for a specific role rather than a casual preference.
Its root connects to the more common verb haireomai, which also means to choose or pick out. While haireomai is used broadly for personal choice, aihretizoō carries a stronger connotation of affiliation. It suggests being chosen to join a particular faction or community. This nuance highlights that the selection is not just about individual preference but about belonging to a designated group.
Translators often render this word as "choose" without adding extra qualifiers, relying on the context to convey the sense of sect membership. The single occurrence in Matthew underscores its rarity and specific application. It serves as a reminder that biblical language can distinguish between general choice and selection for communal identity.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
The word aihretizō appears only once in the New Testament, found in Matthew 12:18. It translates an Old Testament prophecy about God choosing His servant. This specific term carries a weight that goes beyond simple preference. It implies a deliberate selection for a distinct purpose and belonging.
When you read this verse, consider how God actively picks out individuals for His work. He does not leave this to chance. The choice is intentional, marking the person as set apart for a specific mission. This assurance can bring comfort, knowing that your calling is rooted in His deliberate will rather than your own merit.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 1 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- I have chosen,1×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- ᾑρέτισα,1×
Key Verses
-
Matthew 12:18
“Behold, my servant whom I have chosen, my beloved in whom my soul is well pleased. I will put my Spirit on him. He will proclaim justice to the nations.
This verse uses the word to describe God's specific selection of His servant, emphasizing a formal appointment for a divine mission.