γηράσκω (gēraskō)
gēraskō
to grow old
Quick Reference
- Language
- Koine Greek
- Testament
- New Testament
- Occurrences
- 2 verses
- Root
- —
Word Overview
The verb gēraskō describes the natural process of growing old or becoming aged. It is a straightforward term used to indicate the physical decline that comes with time, appearing in only two New Testament verses: John 21:18 and Hebrews 8:13.
In John’s Gospel, Jesus uses this word to predict Peter’s future, contrasting his youthful freedom with the limitations of old age. The author of Hebrews applies it metaphorically to the old covenant system, suggesting that institutions can become obsolete or worn out as they age. This usage highlights a characteristic nuance where physical aging serves as a vivid image for spiritual transition.
Etymologically, the word derives from gēras, meaning "old age" or "gray hair." While it shares meaning with palaioumai, which often implies becoming old or antiquated in a more passive sense, gēraskō emphasizes the active process of aging. Translators typically render it simply as "grow old," capturing both the literal physical reality and its symbolic weight in scriptural contexts.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
The word gēraskō reminds us that aging is a natural, shared human experience rather than a failure. In John’s Gospel, Jesus uses this term to describe Peter’s future, contrasting the freedom of youth with the physical limitations that come later in life. This honest acknowledgment helps us see our changing bodies not as burdens, but as part of God’s ongoing story for each person.
Hebrews takes this physical reality and applies it to spiritual truths. The author notes that what grows old is near to vanishing, pointing believers toward the lasting nature of God’s new covenant. This perspective encourages us to place our hope in eternal promises rather than temporary structures or systems that fade with time.
Understanding this word invites a gentle acceptance of life’s seasons. It calls us to support one another as we move through different stages of strength and vulnerability, trusting that God’s grace remains constant even as our physical circumstances change.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 2 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- you may be old,1×
- aging1×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- γηράσῃς,1×
- γηράσκον1×
Key Verses
-
John 21:18
Most certainly I tell you, when you were young, you dressed yourself and walked where you wanted to. But when you are old, you will stretch out your hands, and another will dress you and carry you where you don’t want to go.”
Jesus uses this verb to predict the specific physical limitations Peter will face in old age, contrasting them with his youthful independence.
-
Hebrews 8:13
In that he says, “A new covenant”, he has made the first obsolete. But that which is becoming obsolete and grows aged is near to vanishing away.
The author applies the concept of aging metaphorically to show that the old covenant system is fading away as it becomes obsolete.