ἀμάω

Pronunciation Guide: ah-MAH-oh

Basic Definition

Strong’s G270: ἀμάω (amaō) refers to the act of reaping or mowing, specifically in an agricultural context. It describes the process of gathering crops by cutting them down with a sickle or similar tool. In biblical usage, it carries connotations of both literal harvesting and metaphorical gathering of spiritual consequences.

Etymology and Morphology

• Part of Speech: Verb
• Origin: Ancient Greek agricultural terminology
• Primary Usage: Narrative and didactic passages
• Register: Common in agricultural contexts
• Voice: Active
• Tense: Present

ἀμάω Morphology:

• ἀμάω (present active indicative) – I reap/mow
• ἀμᾶν (present active infinitive) – to reap/mow
• ἀμήσαντες (aorist active participle nominative plural) – having reaped/mowed
• ἀμησάντων (aorist active participle genitive plural) – of those who have reaped

Origin & History

The word ἀμάω has deep roots in classical Greek agricultural vocabulary, appearing in works as early as Homer’s Iliad, where it described the methodical cutting down of grass or grain. Xenophon employed it in his “Oeconomicus” when discussing proper farm management and the timing of harvest.

In Hellenistic Greek literature, the term maintained its agricultural focus but began to develop metaphorical extensions. Theocritus used it in his pastoral poetry to paint vivid pictures of rural life and the rhythm of agricultural seasons, emphasizing the connection between human labor and divine provision.

Expanded Definitions & Translation Options

• Primary cutting action in harvesting grain or grass
• Systematic gathering of agricultural produce
• Methodical collection of what has been sown
• Reaping as a consequence of previous actions

ἀμάω Translation Options:

• “to reap” – Most common translation, emphasizing the harvesting aspect
• “to mow down” – Highlighting the cutting action involved
• “to gather in” – Emphasizing the collection aspect of harvesting
• “to cut down” – Focusing on the mechanical action of harvesting

Biblical Usage

In the New Testament, ἀμάω appears most prominently in James 5:4, where it carries both literal and metaphorical significance. The context involves workers who have reaped fields but been denied their wages, creating a powerful image of social justice and divine accountability.

The Septuagint employs ἀμάω in agricultural contexts, particularly in passages dealing with harvest regulations and social justice. This usage builds a bridge between practical farming practices and spiritual principles of justice and reciprocity.

• “Behold, the wages of the laborers who mowed [ἀμησάντων] your fields” James 5:4

Cultural Insights

In ancient Mediterranean agriculture, the act of reaping was a communal activity that often involved entire villages working together during the critical harvest period. The practice of gleaning, where poor members of society could gather leftover grain, was integrally connected to the reaping process, as seen in the story of Ruth.

The timing of reaping was crucial in the agricultural calendar of ancient Israel, coinciding with major festivals and religious observances. This connection between agricultural practice and spiritual life created a rich tapestry of meaning that would have been immediately apparent to the original audience of James’s epistle.

Theological Significance

The use of ἀμάω in James 5:4 carries profound theological implications about divine justice. The cry of unpaid wages reaching the ears of יהוה (Yahweh) Sabaoth (Lord of Hosts) presents Him as the ultimate defender of the oppressed and overseer of justice.

This agricultural metaphor extends into the New Testament’s broader teaching about sowing and reaping, both in terms of literal harvest and spiritual consequences. It reinforces the biblical principle that God observes human actions and ensures ultimate accountability.

Personal Application

In our modern context, while few of us are involved in literal harvesting, the principle of ἀμάω reminds us that our actions have consequences, both positive and negative. Just as a farmer’s work culminates in the reaping season, our daily choices and actions will ultimately bear fruit.

This word challenges us to consider how we treat others, particularly in economic relationships, knowing that God hears the cries of those who are treated unjustly. It calls us to practice fairness and generosity in all our dealings.

Related Words

• θερίζω (therizō) – to harvest/reap – Similar but more general term for harvesting See G2325
• συνάγω (synagō) – to gather together – Often used in harvest contexts See G4863
• σπείρω (speirō) – to sow – The agricultural counterpart to reaping See G4687

Did you Know?

• The practice of reaping in ancient Israel was governed by specific biblical laws that protected both landowners and the poor, reflecting God’s concern for social justice.
• The Greek word ἀμάω is related to the Latin “amēre,” which influenced agricultural terminology throughout the Roman Empire.
• Modern Greek still uses ἀμάω in agricultural contexts, particularly in traditional farming communities on islands where ancient methods persist.

Remember This

ἀμάω reminds us that every harvest, whether literal or metaphorical, comes under the watchful eye of our righteous God who ensures justice will ultimately prevail.