Introduction:
In Biblical studies, understanding the original Greek words used in the New Testament allows for a deeper comprehension of the text’s meaning and context. The Greek word ἐγκοπή (Strong’s G1464: enkopḗ) is one such term, which is significant due to its association with hindrance or interruption. This word appears in contexts that deal with obstacles or delays, and understanding its nuances can shed light on the difficulties faced by early Christians and the challenges that could disrupt their spiritual progress or mission. By examining ἐγκοπή, we can gain insight into the cultural and linguistic environment of the New Testament, as well as the practical concerns of its time.
Key Information:
- Greek Word: ἐγκοπή (enkopḗ) [eng-kop-ay’]
- Etymology: Derived from the verb ἐγκόπτω (enkóptō), which means “to cut into” or “to hinder.” The noun ἐγκοπή captures the result of this action, specifically referring to a hindrance or interruption.
- Part of Speech: Noun (Feminine)
- The F.O.G Word Choice: Coming Soon
Primary Meanings:
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- Hindrance: The primary meaning of ἐγκοπή is a hindrance or obstacle that prevents progress, particularly in the context of one’s plans or mission.
- Interruption: It can also mean an interruption, emphasizing the idea of something that cuts into or disrupts a continuous action or flow.
Similar Words:
- ἐμπόδιον (empódion) [em-pod’-ee-on]: This word also means “hindrance” or “obstacle,” but it often implies a more physical or tangible barrier, whereas ἐγκοπή can be used in a broader, more abstract sense.
- ἐμποδίζω (empodízō) [em-pod-id’-zo]: A verb meaning “to hinder” or “to prevent,” closely related to ἐγκοπή in its function but emphasizing the action of hindrance rather than the state or result of being hindered.
Further Insights:
- Morphological Insights:
- ἐγκοπή is a feminine noun that follows the standard declension pattern for first declension nouns in Greek. Its structure is simple but carries significant weight in conveying the idea of disruption.
- The term is often used in contexts where the subject’s progress is impeded, whether through external obstacles or internal struggles.
| Case | Singular | Plural |
|---|---|---|
| Nominative | ἐγκοπή | ἐγκοπαί |
| Genitive | ἐγκοπῆς | ἐγκοπῶν |
| Dative | ἐγκοπῇ | ἐγκοπαῖς |
| Accusative | ἐγκοπήν | ἐγκοπάς |
Lexicon Insights:
BDAG: ἐγκοπή is defined as “a hindrance” or “impediment,” particularly in reference to something that delays or obstructs a planned action. The lexicon notes its usage in contexts where the forward movement or mission of individuals is disrupted.
Thayer’s: Thayer’s lexicon describes ἐγκοπή as a noun meaning “a hindrance” or “interruption,” with emphasis on its use in the New Testament to describe obstacles that believers might face in their spiritual journey or ministry efforts.
Vine’s: ἐγκοπή is noted as a noun that denotes “hindrance,” particularly in the sense of something that cuts into or disrupts progress. Vine’s highlights its metaphorical application in Christian life, where it represents the spiritual or practical challenges that interrupt one’s walk with God.
LSJ: In classical Greek, ἐγκοπή is recognized as a term used to describe a hindrance or obstacle, especially one that arises unexpectedly and disrupts the natural course of events. The lexicon also notes its broader usage in legal and rhetorical contexts, where it could refer to objections or interruptions in discourse.
Strong’s Exhaustive Concordance: ἐγκοπή is listed as “hindrance” or “obstruction,” emphasizing its role in describing the challenges that believers might encounter, particularly those that delay or disrupt their intended course of action.
Scripture References:
- 1 Thessalonians 2:18: “Therefore we wanted to come to you—even I, Paul, time and again—but Satan hindered (ἐγκοπή) us.”
- Romans 15:22: “For this reason I also have been much hindered (ἐγκοπή) from coming to you.”
Classical Usage:
| Text Source | Example |
|---|---|
| Polybius, Histories | “The army’s advance was met with numerous ἐγκοπαί, delaying their march to the battlefront.” |
| Plutarch, Moralia | “He faced a significant ἐγκοπή in his pursuit of justice, as the opposition used every tactic to stall the proceedings.” |
| Xenophon, Anabasis | “The journey was full of ἐγκοπαί, each one threatening to derail their mission entirely.” |
Summary of ἐγκοπή (G1464: enkopḗ):
The noun ἐγκοπή (G1464: enkopḗ) carries the essential meaning of “hindrance” or “interruption,” encapsulating the idea of an obstacle that disrupts or delays progress. In the New Testament, it is used to describe the spiritual and practical challenges that can obstruct a believer’s journey or mission. The term is particularly relevant in the writings of Paul, where it illustrates the difficulties faced in ministry and the opposition that can arise from both natural and spiritual sources. By understanding ἐγκοπή, we gain insight into the trials and obstacles that were common in the early Christian experience, and how these challenges were perceived and addressed within the broader framework of faith and perseverance.
Did You Know?
Did You Know? The concept of ἐγκοπή was not only relevant in spiritual contexts but also in everyday life in the ancient world. The idea of hindrance could apply to anything from legal disputes, where ἐγκοπή might refer to an objection or delay in proceedings, to military campaigns, where it described obstacles that slowed or halted an army’s progress. This wide-ranging application makes ἐγκοπή a versatile term, rich with historical and cultural significance, and highlights the many ways in which hindrances could impact life in the ancient world, just as they do today.
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