ἀγανακτέω

From the study of Matthew 20:24

Range of meaning

Strong irritation, resentment or indignation at something felt to be wrong, insulting or unfair. In ordinary Greek it covers both justified and petty outrage. The word itself says nothing about whether the anger is deserved. It names how sharply the person feels slighted or offended. An old explanation of where the word comes from (from agan, 'very much') is uncertain and should not carry weight.

Against the English

Most versions say "indignant" (BSB, WEB, NIV, ESV, NASB). KJV has "moved with indignation" and YLT "much displeased". "Indignant" is a good match, since it means resentment at what feels unfair. YLT's "much displeased" is too mild.

How it drifted

In church talk, "indignation" is often heard through the phrase "righteous indignation", which suggests justified moral anger. The Greek word carries no such approval. Context decides.

Used elsewhere in the period

Matthew uses it three more times: the chief priests and scribes are indignant at the children's hosannas (21:15), the disciples are indignant at the 'waste' of the ointment poured on Jesus (26:8), and this verse. Each time the anger is misplaced. Mark uses it once of Jesus himself, angry at the disciples for turning children away (Mark 10:14). So the verb can carry justified anger. Wisdom 12:27 (Septuagint) and the papyri (personal and official letters) use it for resentment at being wronged (BDAG; Moulton–Milligan).

From the study of 4 Maccabees 4:21

Range of meaning

To be indignant, irritated, vexed. It describes anger provoked by something felt to be wrong or improper.

Against the English

Brenton and WEB have "grieved." NRSV has "angered." "Grieved" now suggests sadness, but the Greek word means indignation, not sorrow.

How it drifted

In older English "grieved" could mean "offended" or "aggrieved." Modern readers hear mourning.

Used elsewhere in the period

In the New Testament it describes Jesus' indignation at the disciples (Mark 10:14) and the disciples' indignation at James and John (Matt 20:24). In classical and Hellenistic Greek it is the ordinary word for being annoyed or outraged.

From the study of Luke 13:14

Range of meaning

To be indignant, aroused, angry at something one judges wrong or improper. It is stronger than annoyance and carries a sense of moral offence.

Against the English

'Indignant' (BSB, WEB, most modern versions) is accurate. KJV 'answered with indignation' and YLT 'much displeased' keep the sense.

Used elsewhere in the period

In the Gospels: Jesus is indignant at the disciples for turning children away (Mark 10:14). The ten are indignant at James and John (Matt 20:24). The chief priests are indignant at children shouting 'Hosanna' (Matt 21:15). Disciples are indignant at the 'waste' of perfume (Matt 26:8). In classical and Hellenistic Greek it is common for anger at perceived injustice or impropriety.