Brief Overview of ἐπιστέλλω (Strong’s G1989: epistéllō)

Introduction

Understanding Greek words in Biblical studies is crucial for interpreting the New Testament and grasping the cultural nuances of ancient Greek society. The word ἐπιστέλλω (Strong’s G1989: epistéllō) is particularly significant because it carries the idea of sending a message or giving instructions. This verb is vital for understanding the communication practices and the transmission of authoritative instructions in both the New Testament and classical Greek contexts.

Key Information

• The Greek Word: ἐπιστέλλω (epistéllō) [eh-pee-STEL-loh]
• Etymology: Derived from the preposition ἐπί (epi), meaning “upon” or “over,” and the verb στέλλω (stéllō), meaning “to send.” Together, they imply “sending a message or letter” or “giving instructions.”
• Part of Speech: Verb; active voice; primarily used in the middle or passive form.
• The F.O.G Word Choice: Coming Soon.

Primary Meanings

• To send a letter or message.
• To command or instruct formally.
• To charge or give a directive to someone.

Similar Words: πέμπω (pémpō) [PEMP-oh] also means “to send,” but it differs from epistéllō in that pémpō generally refers to sending someone or something without necessarily conveying a formal instruction or directive.

Further Insights: The verb ἐπιστέλλω is often used in contexts where formal instructions, commands, or communications are given. It is commonly found in middle or passive forms in Greek literature, suggesting a focus on the action itself or the effect on the recipient. The word’s use in various texts underlines its importance in both official and personal communication.

Click here for a beginner’s guide to reading Greek: Understanding Greek Grammar: A Beginner’s Guide.

Lexicon Insights

BDAG:
ἐπιστέλλω is defined as “to send a message or letter,” particularly with an emphasis on sending instructions or orders. It often carries the sense of a formal directive being communicated.

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Thayer’s Lexicon:
Describes epistéllō as “to send word” or “to write a letter,” primarily in the sense of giving commands or making requests from a distance, implying authority and purpose.

Vine’s Expository Dictionary:
Notes that epistéllō conveys the idea of sending messages that are not merely informative but directive. It highlights the authoritative nature of the communications in which this word is used.

LSJ (Liddell-Scott-Jones):
Focuses on the usage of epistéllō in both formal and informal contexts, where it is employed to denote sending letters, decrees, or orders, often in administrative or military settings.

Strong’s Exhaustive Concordance:
Defines epistéllō as “to send to” or “to enjoin.” It is particularly noted for its use in contexts where instructions are sent from one authority to another group or individual.

Related Scripture References

• Acts 15:20: “But that we write [ἐπιστεῖλαι (episteilai)] unto them, that they abstain from pollutions of idols, and from fornication, and from things strangled, and from blood.”
• Acts 21:25: “As touching the Gentiles which believe, we have written [ἐπιστείλαμεν (episteilamen)] and concluded that they observe no such thing, save only that they keep themselves from things offered to idols, and from blood, and from strangled, and from fornication.”
• Hebrews 13:22: “And I beseech you, brethren, suffer the word of exhortation: for I have written [ἐπέστειλα (epesteila)] a letter unto you in few words.”

Classical Usage

Summary of ἐπιστέλλω (G1989: epistéllō)

The Greek word ἐπιστέλλω (epistéllō), a verb meaning “to send a message” or “to instruct,” is central to understanding communication in both secular and sacred contexts in ancient Greek culture. It is used in the New Testament to describe the sending of letters or instructions, often with authoritative weight, as seen in the apostolic letters. This word also appears in classical Greek literature and the Septuagint, where it conveys the formal act of sending orders, messages, or decrees. The varied use of epistéllō underscores its importance in contexts where communication involves authority, governance, or instruction.

Did You Know?

Did you know that ἐπιστέλλω is the root of the modern English word “epistle,” which refers to a letter, especially a formal or didactic one? This connection highlights how ancient Greek concepts of communication and instruction have shaped contemporary language and the way we think about authoritative correspondence.