2 Timothy 2:15

An Exegetical Study of `ορθοτομεω` in 2 Timothy 2:15

This exegetical study of `ορθοτομεω` in 2 Tim 2:15 is based on a b-greek discussion from April 10, 2006. The initial contribution highlighted a series of blog entries by Suzanne McCarthy and Richard Rhodes, which provided a comprehensive exploration of the word’s usage and contexts. This discussion underscored the importance of contextual and historical analysis in understanding word meaning, cautioning against the perils of etymologizing.

The central exegetical issue revolves around the precise meaning of the verb `ορθοτομεω` in 2 Timothy 2:15, particularly the significance of the `τομ-` root (from `τεμνω`, “to cut”) within this compound verb. Traditionally rendered “rightly dividing the word of truth” (KJV), this translation has been widely challenged. The discussion aims to uncover the original metaphor involved, exploring suggestions ranging from roadbuilding to “cutting to the core” or “rightly systematizing” the word of truth, considering its rarity in extra-biblical Greek literature and its usage in the Septuagint.

σπούδασον σεαυτὸν δόκιμον παραστῆσαι τῷ θεῷ, ἐργάτην ἀνεπαίσχυντον, ὀρθοτομοῦντα τὸν λόγον τῆς ἀληθείας. (Nestle 1904)

Key differences with SBLGNT (2010):

• The Greek text for 2 Timothy 2:15 is identical in Nestle 1904 and SBLGNT 2010. No significant textual variants are noted for this verse across these editions.

Textual Criticism (NA28) and Lexical Notes

The Greek text of 2 Timothy 2:15 presents no significant textual variants in critical editions like NA28, indicating a stable tradition for this verse. The primary challenge lies in the lexical interpretation of `ορθοτομεω`. This verb is a hapax legomenon in the New Testament, appearing only here. Its only other biblical occurrences are in the Septuagint (LXX) at Proverbs 3:6 and 11:5. In both instances, it translates the Hebrew verb `ישׁר` (yashar), meaning “to be straight, smooth, or right.”

Lexical resources offer various perspectives:

• KITTEL (TDNT) (Theological Dictionary of the New Testament) emphasizes the concept of “doing the right thing” or “right action,” extending beyond mere verbal expression to proper conduct.
• BDAG (A Greek-English Lexicon of the New Testament and Other Early Christian Literature) tentatively suggests “guide the word of truth along a straight path,” implying a methodological and directive function.
• Louw-Nida (Greek-English Lexicon of the New Testament Based on Semantic Domains) proposes “to give accurate instruction,” focusing on the clarity and correctness of teaching.
• Other lexicons and commentators, as cited in the discussion, offer additional nuances:
  • Liddell-Scott: “teach aright.”
  • Thayer: “to teach the truth directly and correctly.”
  • Souter: “define according to the norm of the Gospel.”
  • Robinson: “rightly and skillfully teaching it.”

Several contributors emphasize that the traditional “rightly dividing” may stem from an etymological fallacy, excessively focusing on the `τομ-` (“cut”) root. The original metaphor is often linked to “road-building” or “making a straight path.” For instance, Spicq and Ernest note its connection to `hodon temnein` (to trace or follow a route) and `orthon legein` (to express oneself correctly), implying precision and adherence to a proper course. Albert Pietersma specifically suggests the LXX usage of `ορθοτομεω` in Proverbs 3:6 and 11:5 implies “road building” (de novo) rather than merely “road straightening,” supporting a sense of establishing a clear and correct way.

The immediate context of 2 Timothy 2:15 further illuminates the term. Paul exhorts Timothy to be a “worker unashamed,” contrasting this with those who engage in “irreverent babble” (2:16), “quarrel over words” (2:14), or have “swerved from the truth” (2:18). This suggests that `ορθοτομεω` involves conveying the “word of truth” (`τον λογον της αληθειας`) accurately and faithfully, in both content and conduct, avoiding distortions and misinterpretations. Furthermore, the “word of truth” itself, as defined by Paul in Ephesians 1:13 and Colossians 1:5, refers specifically to the gospel of salvation, not necessarily the entirety of Scripture, which implies a particular focus for Timothy’s faithful handling.

Translation Variants and Grammatical & Rhetorical Analysis

The diverse interpretations of `ορθοτομεω` have led to numerous translation variants, each with distinct grammatical and rhetorical implications:

1. “Rightly dividing” (KJV): This translation, while traditional, is often critiqued for its potential to imply a segmentation or compartmentalization of truth, possibly leading to a systematic theological framework where “parts” of the word are separated. Grammatically, `ορθοτομουντα` is a present active participle, modifying `εργατην` (worker). The participle denotes continuous action or characteristic. Rhetorically, “dividing” suggests a logical, analytical process.

2. “Handling aright / accurately handling / correctly handles” (ASV, NASB, NIV, ESV): These translations shift the focus from “dividing” to the *manner* of engaging with the word. `ορθοτομεω` is understood as signifying an accurate, proper, or straight way of managing the gospel message. Grammatically, they retain the participial force. Rhetorically, they emphasize responsible stewardship and pedagogical exactitude, avoiding error or distortion.

3. “Teaching accurately / giving accurate instruction” (NET, Louw-Nida): These options foreground the pedagogical aspect inherent in the surrounding context of 2 Timothy. Timothy’s role as a “worker” and a teacher (`διδασκειν`, 2:2) is central. Rhetorically, this interpretation highlights the communication and transmission of truth, ensuring its fidelity to the original message.

4. “Guide the word of truth along a straight path” (BDAG): This translation leans into the “road-building” metaphor derived from the LXX usage in Proverbs. It suggests a proactive role in establishing or maintaining a clear trajectory for the gospel. Rhetorically, it emphasizes leadership and discernment, charting a course that avoids detours or deviations from truth.

5. “Rightly systematizing or categorizing the word of truth”: This interpretation suggests an organizational effort, akin to “systematic theology,” where passages are correctly grouped. While appealing for its methodological clarity, it is questioned whether this sophisticated theological construct is implicit in `ορθοτομεω`’s primary sense.

6. “Cutting to the core”: This metaphorical suggestion captures the essence of directness and incisiveness, getting straight to the heart of the matter. It implies penetrating insight and avoids superficiality, a quality appropriate for a seasoned teacher of the gospel.

7. “Living by it / keeping the gospel straight in both content and conduct”: This interpretation broadens the scope beyond mere verbal communication to encompass lifestyle. Given the connection to the “straight path” in Proverbs and Paul’s exhortations for Timothy’s conduct, this holistic understanding emphasizes that the “word of truth” must be embodied and lived out consistently.

The rhetorical force of `ορθοτομεω` stands in stark contrast to the activities of false teachers described elsewhere in the epistle (e.g., “quarreling about words,” “irreverent babble,” “swerving from the truth”). Whatever its precise nuance, it must denote an action that upholds the integrity and fidelity of the gospel message.

Conclusions and Translation Suggestions

The exegetical study of `ορθοτομεω` in 2 Timothy 2:15 reveals a rich semantic field, moving beyond a simplistic “dividing.” The weight of evidence from its LXX usage and the immediate Pauline context points towards metaphors of straightness, correctness, and accurate transmission, often rooted in the concept of making or following a straight path. The “word of truth” is the gospel of salvation, which Timothy is to present and embody without distortion. The goal is not merely intellectual categorization, but faithful living and teaching that aligns with divine truth.

Considering the various nuances, the following translation suggestions capture different facets of `ορθοτομεω`:

1. “Strive to present yourself to God as one approved, a worker who has no need to be ashamed, *accurately guiding* the word of truth.”
   This translation emphasizes the metaphorical “straight path” and Timothy’s role in directing the gospel message with precision and integrity, akin to a road-builder or guide.
2. “Strive to present yourself to God as one approved, a worker who has no need to be ashamed, *handling correctly* the word of truth.”
   This option prioritizes the idea of proper and responsible stewardship, encompassing both the content and the manner of communication, aligning with the contrast to those who distort the truth.
3. “Strive to present yourself to God as one approved, a worker who has no need to be ashamed, *faithfully proclaiming* the word of truth.”
   This translation highlights the pedagogical and communicative aspect, focusing on the accurate and unwavering declaration of the gospel, encompassing the idea of expressing oneself correctly (`orthoepeia`) and living in accordance with the message.