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βοή

boḗ

G995 noun

SILEX Entry

Root βοά- to shout, to cry out, to call loudly

Definition

A loud call, outcry, or urgent shout, especially as a summons for help, warning, or in distress; broadly, any raised, impassioned voice meant to elicit a response. In various contexts, refers to both the involuntary shout of affliction and the intentional appeal for assistance or attention.

Semantic Range

loud cry, urgent shout, call for help, outcry in distress, public summons, battle-cry

Root / Etymology

From the root βοάω ('to shout, cry out loudly'). βοή is the noun form derived from this verb, indicating the act or result of shouting or calling out.

Historical & Contextual Notes

In classical Greek, βοή is found as early as Homer, usually denoting a loud shout, especially a battle-cry or shout for help (Iliad, Odyssey). The term is associated with urgency, danger, or high emotion. In the Septuagint, it is frequently used to translate Hebrew terms for outcry or supplication, especially in the context of appeals to God or calls for deliverance. In the New Testament (e.g., Hebrews 5:7), βοή retains this sense of a fervent or desperate call, usually directed toward a powerful listener (divine or earthly). Standard English translations as 'cry' or 'outcry' are generally accurate, though they may underemphasize the original sense of loudness, urgency, or the performative aspect of a collective shout (as in battle). The term is less common in non-literary Koine, where synonymous terms like κραυγή may also be used; however, βοή often implies a need for response or aid, distinguishing it from generic noise or shouting.

Original Strong's Gloss (1890)

from βοάω; a halloo, i.e. call (for aid, etc.):--cry.

Root Family

βοή (boē) — loud cry, urgent shout, call for help, outcry

Word Forms

1 distinct form

SIDANCE Surface Transliteration Morphology Common SIBI-P1 SIBI-P2 Occurrences
G995-01 βοαὶ boai N NOM F PL cries loud outcries cries 1

Occurrences in Scripture

1 occurrence

SIDANCE Reference Word Transliteration Morphology Common SIBI-P1 SIBI-P2
G995-01 James 5:4 βοαὶ boai N NOM F PL cries loud outcries cries
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