Strong's Lexicon sainó: To wag, to flatter, to fawn Original Word: σαίνω Word Origin: Of uncertain origin Corresponding Greek / Hebrew Entries: While there is no direct Hebrew equivalent for "σαίνω," the concept of flattery and deceit can be found in Hebrew words such as "חָלַק" (chalak - Strong's Hebrew 2505), which means to be smooth or to flatter. Usage: The Greek verb "σαίνω" (sainó) primarily means to wag, as in the wagging of a dog's tail, which metaphorically extends to the act of flattering or fawning over someone. In the context of the New Testament, it is used to describe insincere or excessive praise, often with the intent to deceive or manipulate. Cultural and Historical Background: In ancient Greek culture, the act of flattering was often seen as a means to gain favor or manipulate others. The metaphor of a dog wagging its tail was a vivid image for the original audience, illustrating the idea of someone who is overly eager to please, often for personal gain. This concept was well understood in the Greco-Roman world, where social status and favor could be influenced by such behavior. NAS Exhaustive Concordance Word Origina prim. verb Definition to wag the tail, hence to greet, flatter, disturb NASB Translation disturbed (1). Thayer's Greek Lexicon STRONGS NT 4525: σαίνωσαίνω: present infinitive passive σαίνεσθαι; (ΣΑΩ, σείω); 1. properly, to wag the tail: of dogs, Homer, Odyssey 16, 6; Aelian v. h. 13, 41; Aesop fab. 229, Halm edition (354 edition Coray); with ὀυρη added, Odyssey 17, 302; Hesiod theog. 771; οὐράν, Aesop, the passage cited; others; see Passow (or Liddell and Scott), under the word, I. 2. metaphorically, a. to flatter, fawn upon (Aeschylus, Pindar, Sophocles, others). b. to move (the mind of one), α. agreeably: passive, ὑπ' ἐλπίδος, Aeschylus, Oppian; ἀληθῆ σαινει τήν ψυχήν, Aristotle, metaphorically, 13, 3, p. 1090a, 37. β. to agitate, disturb, trouble: passive, 1 Thessalonians 3:3 (here A. V. move (Buttmann, 263 (226))) (here Lachmann ἀσαίνω, which see); οἱ δέ σαινόμενοι τοῖς μενοις ἐδακρυον, (Diogenes Laërtius 8, 41. Akin to seio; to wag (as a dog its tail fawningly), i.e. (generally) to shake (figuratively, disturb) -- move. see GREEK seio |
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