NAS Word Usage – Total: 1

1. big with child, pregnant

Understanding “Egkuos”

To begin, we must first understand the term itself. The Greek word “egkuos” (εγκύος) translates directly to “pregnant” or “with child.” Its literal meaning revolves around the state of carrying a developing life within the womb. Unlike many words that have multiple interpretations, “egkuos” carries a straightforward physical and biological connotation.

Egkuos in the Context of the Bible

New Testament Usage

The word “egkuos” appears in the New Testament, specifically in the Gospel of Matthew 24:19 and the Gospel of Luke 21:23. Both verses use “egkuos” in the context of Jesus’ prophecies about the end times. For example, Matthew 24:19 says:

“But woe to those who are pregnant and to those who are nursing babies in those days!” (NKJV)

Here, Jesus empathizes with the added struggles that pregnant women (egkuos) and nursing mothers would face during times of tribulation. The term is used to underline the vulnerability and the heightened difficulties that expectant mothers would endure in times of crisis.

Old Testament Connections

Although “egkuos” is a Greek term primarily found in the New Testament, its Hebrew equivalent in the Old Testament is “hara” (הרה), which also means “pregnant.” Understanding “egkuos” helps illuminate similar situations in the Old Testament, like Hannah’s childlessness before Samuel’s birth or Sarah’s pregnancy with Isaac.

Cultural and Theological Significance

Symbolism of Pregnancy

In ancient cultures, including those depicted in the Bible, pregnancy symbolized more than just the physical act of bearing a child. It was often seen as a symbol of God’s blessing, continuity, and future hope. Therefore, when “egkuos” is used, it encompasses these cultural layers of meaning.

The Role of Women

The mention of pregnant women in Biblical narratives often highlighted their critical role within the family and society. In times of distress, as Jesus pointed out, the burden on pregnant women or “egkuos” (εγκύος) women is exponentially higher. This underscores a deeper compassion and understanding of societal roles and responsibilities.

Broader Contextual Analysis

Linguistic Roots

“Eγkυos” derives from roots that can be traced to the Proto-Indo-European word “genu,” meaning to bear or give birth. This etymological pathway shows how the word evolved to its specific Greek formation, encapsulating both biological and cultural perspectives.

Historical and Social Impacts

In Biblical times, the survival of a pregnant woman and her child was crucial for the family’s future and the community’s stability. Hence, references to “egkuos” carry an implicit recognition of the importance of life-bearing women in maintaining the social fabric and the lineage.

Egkuos: Modern Reflections

Scripture Interpretations

For modern readers and theologians, the mentions of “egkuos” in Scripture urge a deeper contemplation on the complexities and extraordinary roles women have held throughout history. It challenges contemporary readers to engage empathetically with the trials and resilience of biblical women.

Contemporary Relevance

In many ways, the word retains its significance in modern contexts, addressing ongoing concerns about the welfare and rights of pregnant women, especially in crisis situations similar to the Biblical era’s difficulties.

Conclusion

Understanding “egkuos” sheds light not only on the specific biblical verses where it is mentioned but also on broader themes of vulnerability, compassion, and societal roles. By exploring What does Egkuos in Greek mean in Greek in Context of the Bible, we open a window into the deep cultural, theological, and historical insights embedded within these sacred texts.