Strong's Lexicon chalaó: to let down, lower, slacken Original Word: χαλάω Word Origin: From a primary root (to loosen) Corresponding Greek / Hebrew Entries: While there is no direct Hebrew equivalent for "chalaó," the concept of lowering or letting down can be seen in Hebrew verbs like יָרַד (yarad - to go down, descend) and שָׁלַח (shalach - to send, let go). Usage: The Greek verb "chalaó" primarily means to let down or lower something, often by means of a rope or similar device. It can also imply the act of loosening or slackening. In the New Testament, it is used in both literal and metaphorical contexts, indicating a physical lowering or a relaxation of intensity or effort. Cultural and Historical Background: In ancient Greek culture, the act of lowering or letting down was a common practice, especially in maritime activities where sails and anchors were frequently adjusted. The term would have been familiar to those in agrarian and fishing communities, where nets and other equipment were often let down or slackened. In a broader cultural sense, the concept of "loosening" could also relate to easing tensions or reducing strictness in various social or religious practices. NAS Exhaustive Concordance Word Origina prim. word Definition to slacken NASB Translation let down (6), let down let down (1), lowering* (1). Thayer's Greek Lexicon STRONGS NT 5465: χαλάωχαλάω, χάλω; future χαλάσω; 1 aorist ἐχάλασα; 1 aorist passive, ἐχαλάσθην; from Aeschylus and Pindar down; a. to loosen, slacken, relax. b. to let down from a higher place to a lower: τί or τινα, Mark 2:4; Luke 5:4; Acts 27:17, 30 (in these last two passages in a nautical sense, to lower); τινα ἐν συριδιδ, Acts 9:25; passive, 2 Corinthians 11:33. From the base of chasma; to lower (as into a void) -- let down, strike. see GREEK chasma Englishman's Concordance Mark 2:4 V-PIA-3PGRK: καὶ ἐξορύξαντες χαλῶσι τὸν κράβαττον NAS: Him; and when they had dug an opening, they let down the pallet KJV: when they had broken [it] up, they let down the bed INT: and having broken up [it] they let down the pallet Luke 5:4 V-AMA-2P Luke 5:5 V-FIA-1S Acts 9:25 V-APA-NMP Acts 27:17 V-APA-NMP Acts 27:30 V-APA-GMP 2 Corinthians 11:33 V-AIP-1S Strong's Greek 5465 |