Hebrew Bible
New Testament
Hebrew Bible
New Testament
Pronunciation Guide: ah-nah-zo-poo-REH-oh
ἀναζωπυρέω
g329
Strong’s G329: ἀναζωπυρέω (anazōpureō) describes the act of rekindling or stirring up a fire that has grown dim, specifically used metaphorically to describe the renewal of spiritual fervor or gifts. This compound word paints a vivid picture of actively fanning dying embers back to full flame. In its biblical context, it carries the profound implication of intentionally reviving and maintaining spiritual passion and divine giftings through deliberate action.
ἀναζωπυρέω Morphology:
The term ἀναζωπυρέω has a rich history in classical Greek literature, particularly in military contexts where maintaining fire was crucial for army camps. Xenophon uses it in his “Cyropaedia” (7.5.23) when describing how soldiers would rekindle their camp fires after they had died down. The term appears in the Septuagint in 1 Maccabees 13:7 to describe the rekindling of people’s spirits for battle.
In early church father literature, Clement of Alexandria (Stromata 1.1) employs this word to describe the process of rekindling knowledge and wisdom in the soul, drawing a parallel between maintaining physical fire and nurturing spiritual enlightenment. The metaphorical extension from physical fire-tending to spiritual renewal became increasingly common in Christian writings.
ἀναζωπυρέω Translation Options:
In its sole New Testament appearance, ἀναζωπυρέω emerges in 2 Timothy 1:6 where Paul exhorts Timothy to “fan into flame” the gift of God. This usage is particularly significant as it comes within a pastoral context of encouragement and spiritual mentorship. The present tense suggests an ongoing action – not a one-time revival but a continuous tending to the spiritual fire.
While the word appears only once in the New Testament, its conceptual parallels can be found throughout Scripture where spiritual fervor and divine gifting are discussed:
In the ancient world, maintaining fire was a critical daily task. Every household had a sacred duty to keep their hearth fire burning, as starting a new fire was difficult and time-consuming. This cultural backdrop adds depth to Paul’s metaphor – just as ancient households would carefully tend their fires, adding fuel and clearing ashes at regular intervals, so too must believers actively maintain their spiritual gifts and fervor.
The Jewish understanding of fire as representing divine presence (as seen in the burning bush, pillar of fire, and tongues of fire at Pentecost) would have resonated deeply with Timothy, who was raised in a Jewish-Greek household. The idea of “rekindling” would have carried connotations of renewed divine presence and power.
The use of ἀναζωπυρέω in 2 Timothy 1:6 reveals profound theological truths about the nature of spiritual gifts and our responsibility toward them. It suggests that divine gifting, while sovereignly given, requires human participation in its maintenance and development. This creates a beautiful picture of divine-human cooperation in the spiritual life.
The word also implies that spiritual fervor naturally tends to diminish unless actively maintained, much like a fire needs constant attention. This reveals God’s wisdom in designing our spiritual life to require ongoing engagement and intentional nurturing, preventing passive or taken-for-granted faith.
Just as a fire tender must regularly clear away ashes, add new fuel, and ensure proper airflow, believers must actively maintain their spiritual vitality. This involves regular spiritual disciplines, fellowship with other believers, and intentional exercise of spiritual gifts. The present tense of the verb in 2 Timothy 1:6 reminds us that this is not a one-time event but a continuous process.
Consider what “ashes” might need clearing from your spiritual life – old hurts, doubts, or distractions that may be smothering your spiritual fire. What new “fuel” could you add through Bible study, prayer, or service? How might you improve the “airflow” of the Holy Spirit in your life through worship and surrender?
ἀναζωπυρέω reminds us that spiritual vitality is not automatic – it requires our active participation in partnership with the Holy Spirit to maintain the sacred fire of our calling and gifts.
Note: While this entry strives for accuracy, readers engaged in critical research should verify citations and keyword occurrences in their Bible translation of choice. For Biblical citations, the F.O.G Bible project recommends Logos Bible software.
Strong's g329
God's Word is too vast for a single perspective. We all have a story, and as believers we all carry the Holy Spirit who is the Revealer. With this in mind - I would love to read your comments.