The Greek verb anaginōskō (ἀναγινώσκω) means "to read" — specifically to read aloud, as was the custom in the ancient world. From ana (again, thoroughly) + ginōskō (to know), it conveys the idea of "knowing again" through reading — recognizing and understanding what is written. The word appears throughout the New Testament in contexts of public Scripture reading, personal study, and divine command to understand.
Public anaginōskō — the reading of Scripture — was central to both synagogue worship and early Christian gatherings. "Until I come, devote yourself to the public reading [anagnōsis] of Scripture" (1 Timothy 4:13) establishes Scripture reading as a core pastoral responsibility, not a secondary concern. Jesus's invitation "Have you not read?" (ouk anegnōte) appears repeatedly in the Gospels, pointing his opponents to Scripture they claimed to revere but failed to understand. Revelation promises a blessing specifically to "the one who reads aloud" the prophecy (Revelation 1:3) — a reminder that public reading of God's word is an act of worship with its own promised blessing.