Brief Overview of ἐκπίπτω (Strong’s G1601: ekpíptō)

Introduction

The study of Greek words in the Bible provides a profound understanding of the original text’s meaning and context. The word ἐκπίπτω (ekpíptō) is a compelling example of how a single Greek term can carry a range of meanings that enrich our interpretation of Biblical passages. This verb, which generally means “to fall out” or “to fall away,” appears in various contexts in the New Testament, offering insights into physical, moral, and spiritual conditions. Understanding ἐκπίπτω is particularly significant for interpreting key theological concepts in the New Testament, as it often refers to the act of falling away from grace or losing one’s standing.

Key Information

• ἐκπίπτω (ekpíptō) [ek-PEEP-toh]
• Etymology: Derived from the prefix ἐκ (ek), meaning “out of” or “from,” and the verb πίπτω (píptō), meaning “to fall.” The compound verb emphasizes the action of falling away or being cast out.
• Part of Speech: Verb (used in various tenses depending on context).
• The F.O.G Word Choice: Coming Soon

Primary Meanings

• To Fall Out: The literal meaning of ἐκπίπτω is to fall out or drop out of something, often used in a physical sense.
• To Fall Away: In a metaphorical sense, it refers to falling away from a position, state, or condition, such as falling from grace or favor.
• To Be Cast Out: The word can also imply being cast out or expelled, indicating a loss of status or belonging.

Similar Words:

• πίπτω (píptō) [PEEP-toh]: The root verb meaning “to fall,” which is the base for ἐκπίπτω.
• ἐκβάλλω (ekbállō) [ek-BAHL-loh]: Another related verb meaning “to cast out” or “to throw out,” emphasizing the action of expulsion or removal.

Further Insights:

• Morphology: ἐκπίπτω is a compound verb combining ἐκ (out of) and πίπτω (to fall), which together intensify the action, suggesting a forceful or significant fall. This verb is used primarily in the active voice, but it can also appear in the passive voice, indicating that the subject is the one being cast out or has fallen.
• Linguistic Features: The word’s construction highlights a transition from a state of inclusion to exclusion, whether physical, social, or spiritual. It is often used in moral and theological contexts to describe a departure from righteousness or favor.

Lexicon Insights

BDAG: The BDAG lexicon explains ἐκπίπτω as “to fall out” or “to fall away,” particularly in moral and spiritual contexts. It highlights the use of the term in passages where it denotes a departure from faith or grace.

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Thayer’s: Thayer’s lexicon defines ἐκπίπτω as “to fall from,” emphasizing its usage in contexts where an individual or group loses their previous standing or position, especially in a spiritual sense.

Vines: Vine’s Expository Dictionary underscores the term’s metaphorical implications, particularly in relation to spiritual decline or apostasy. It is used to convey the idea of losing one’s place in God’s favor or falling away from the truth.

LSJ: The Liddell-Scott-Jones lexicon provides classical references where ἐκπίπτω is used to describe both physical falling and the loss of social or moral standing. It notes the word’s versatility in both literal and figurative language.

Strongs Exhaustive Concordance: Strong’s Concordance lists ἐκπίπτω as “to fall” or “to fall away,” focusing on its use in the New Testament to describe the spiritual falling away from faith or grace.

Scripture References:

• Galatians 5:4 – “You who are trying to be justified by the law have been alienated from Christ; you have fallen away from grace.”
• Acts 27:26 – “Nevertheless, we must run aground on some island,” where the word is used in a literal sense of a ship running aground.

Classical Usage

Summary of ἐκπίπτω (G1601: ekpíptō)

The Greek verb ἐκπίπτω (G1601) is a rich and multi-faceted word that plays a significant role in Biblical exegesis. Its primary meanings of falling out, falling away, and being cast out offer insights into various contexts, from physical accidents to spiritual and moral declines. This word is crucial in understanding key passages in the New Testament that deal with the consequences of falling away from faith or grace. Its usage in both the Bible and classical literature underscores its versatility and importance in conveying transitions from inclusion to exclusion, whether in a physical, social, or spiritual sense.

Did You Know?

In classical Greek literature, ἐκπίπτω was often used to describe not only physical falls but also the loss of social status or moral integrity. This usage highlights the word’s powerful connotations of a decline or fall from a previous state of favor or grace, making it a potent term in both secular and religious contexts. The word’s implications in moral and spiritual terms continue to resonate in theological discussions today.