μαγεύω
mageúō
G3096 verb
SILEX Entry
Definition
To practice magic arts; to perform acts or rituals intended to manipulate supernatural powers, often through incantations, spells, or occult techniques. In Hellenistic and Roman contexts, this typically denotes acts considered illicit or foreign manipulations of divine power. The sense covers both literal practice of such arts and, in some texts, the attempt or pretense of such practice.
Semantic Range
to practice magic, to use magical arts, to engage in sorcery, to perform occult rituals or incantations
Root / Etymology
From μάγος (magos), meaning a Magian or practitioner of magical/mystical arts, with the verb-forming suffix -εύω indicating 'to practice as' or 'to act as'. Cognate with terms for magicians and sorcerers in Hellenistic Greek (e.g., μαγγανεύω).
Historical & Contextual Notes
The verb μαγεύω is relatively rare in extant Greek literature and appears in Koine Greek mainly in contexts connected to the condemnation or exposure of magical practices, particularly those deemed foreign or heterodox. In classical sources, μαγεύω often carries a negative connotation, associated with trickery or fraudulent manipulation, especially in the context of rituals seen as unauthoritative compared to sanctioned religious practice. In the New Testament (Acts 8:9, 11), μαγεύω refers to the actions of Simon of Samaria, whose activities are depicted as deceptive wonders or sorcery rather than legitimate miracles. The English word 'magic' derives from the same Indo-Iranian root (cf. Old Persian maguš), but the term's moral nuance in ancient Greek—often negative and implying illegitimacy—differs from later neutral or positive uses. LXX appearances are limited and typically refer to Egyptian or foreign practices condemned in Israelite context. Distinct from other terms such as φαρμακεύω (to use drugs/potions, often with sorcery) and goes (γόης, a charlatan or enchanter).
Original Strong's Gloss (1890)
from μάγος; to practice magic:--use sorcery.
Root Family
μαγ- (mageía) — magic, sorcery, ritual practice
Word Forms
1 distinct form
| SIDANCE | Surface | Transliteration | Morphology | Common | SIBI-P1 | SIBI-P2 | Occurrences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
G3096-01 |
μαγεύων | mageuon | V PRS ACT PTCP NOM M SG |
practicing magic | practicing magic | practicing magic | 1 |
Occurrences in Scripture
1 occurrence
| SIDANCE | Reference | Word | Transliteration | Morphology | Common | SIBI-P1 | SIBI-P2 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
G3096-01 |
Acts 8:9 | μαγεύων | mageuon | V PRS ACT PTCP NOM M SG |
practicing magic | practicing magic | practicing magic |