πρίζω
prízō
G4249 verb
SILEX Entry
Definition
To saw through, to cut by means of a saw. The verb indicates the literal action of dividing or cutting something, typically wood or another material, by using a saw; it can also imply the act of cutting in two (asunder) or apart. In rare cases, the term is used in a metaphorical sense for violent division.
Semantic Range
to saw, to saw through, to saw asunder, to cut in two with a saw, to divide by sawing
Root / Etymology
From the root πρι- (pri-) related to the action of sawing or cutting. Closely connected to the simpler verb πρίω (prior form meaning 'to saw'), with πρίζω being a later or strengthened form. The root is of uncertain origin and may be onomatopoeic, reflecting the sound or motion of sawing. No known direct parallels in non-Greek Indo-European languages.
Historical & Contextual Notes
πρίζω appears infrequently in extant Greek texts; in the Koine period, it is found especially in contexts of construction or execution (notably in hagiographical or martyrological literature referencing the act of sawing persons as a method of execution, although such uses are generally post-biblical or extra-biblical). The Septuagint may use cognates for similar acts of cutting, but this specific verb is rare. The basic sense continued unchanged from earlier to later Greek, with English Bibles typically translating it as 'to saw asunder' or 'to saw in two.' In contrast, more common terms for 'cutting' in Greek (e.g., τέμνω for 'to cut') are more general and do not specify method. πρίζω is a technical verb, focused narrowly on the physical process of using a saw.
Original Strong's Gloss (1890)
a strengthened form of a primary prio (to saw); to saw in two:--saw asunder.
Root Family
πρι- (prízō) — to saw, to cut with a saw
Word Forms
1 distinct form
| SIDANCE | Surface | Transliteration | Morphology | Common | SIBI-P1 | SIBI-P2 | Occurrences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
G4249-01 |
ἐπρίσθησαν | epristhesan | V AOR PASS IND 3P PL |
they were sawn in two | they were sawed in two | they were sawed in two | 1 |
Occurrences in Scripture
1 occurrence
| SIDANCE | Reference | Word | Transliteration | Morphology | Common | SIBI-P1 | SIBI-P2 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
G4249-01 |
Hebrews 11:37 | ἐπρίσθησαν | epristhesan | V AOR PASS IND 3P PL |
they were sawn in two | they were sawed in two | they were sawed in two |