Brief Overview of ἀναπίπτω (Strong’s G377:)

The Greek verb ἀναπίπτω (anapiptō) means “to fall back” or “to fall upon again.” It is composed of the prefix ἀνά (ana), meaning “up” or “again,” and πίπτω (piptō), meaning “to fall.” The term generally denotes a motion of falling back or a return to a previous state, often used metaphorically.

Detailed Overview

According to Strong’s Concordance, ἀναπίπτω (G377) appears in the New Testament in a metaphorical sense, indicating a fall or relapse. It is used in Luke 8:13 to describe those who “fall away” or “return to a previous state” after initially receiving the message of the gospel. This usage implies a return to a former condition of unfaithfulness or lack of commitment.

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The Bauer-Danker-Arndt-Gingrich (BDAG) Greek-English Lexicon further elaborates on the term, noting that ἀναπίπτω can denote the act of falling back into a previous state or condition, particularly in a metaphorical sense related to moral or spiritual states. It emphasizes a regression or relapse into previous behaviors or attitudes.

The Liddell-Scott-Jones (LSJ) Greek-English Lexicon expands on this by including its use in classical Greek to describe physical actions of falling back or returning to a prior position, as well as its metaphorical applications in discussing changes in state or condition.

In summary, ἀναπίπτω primarily refers to the action of falling back or returning to a previous state, whether in a physical or metaphorical sense. This understanding is supported by Strong’s Concordance, BDAG, and LSJ, each providing context for its use in both biblical and classical Greek literature.