Brief Overview of ἐπάγω (Strong’s G1863: epagō)

Introduction

In Biblical studies, understanding Greek words deepens our comprehension of the original texts and their intended meanings. The Greek word ἐπάγω (epagō) is significant for its versatile use in the New Testament, often describing actions like “bringing upon” or “leading on.” This word’s study is vital for interpreting how events and actions unfold within biblical narratives and for understanding broader themes in ancient Greek culture and literature.

Key Information

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• The Greek Word: ἐπάγω, transliterated as epagō [eh-PAH-go].
• Etymology: Derived from the preposition ἐπί (epi), meaning “upon” or “on,” and the verb ἄγω (agō), meaning “to lead” or “to bring.”
• Part of Speech: Verb; utilized in various grammatical forms depending on tense, voice, and mood.
• The F.O.G Word Choice: Coming Soon.

Primary Meanings

• To Bring Upon: To cause an action, event, or situation to occur.
• To Lead On: To guide or lead someone or something forward.
• To Inflict: In certain contexts, it implies bringing about negative consequences or trouble.

Similar Words: φέρω (pherō) [FEH-roh]: While pherō means “to carry” or “to bear,” both verbs share a sense of movement or action. However, epagō is more specific to leading or guiding an event, while pherō focuses on the physical act of carrying.

Further Insights: As a verb, epagō changes forms based on tense (present, future, aorist), voice (active, middle, passive), and mood (indicative, imperative, subjunctive). In the New Testament, it often describes metaphoric or figurative actions, such as leading someone into a situation or bringing about specific outcomes.
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Lexicon Insights

BDAG: Epagō is described as “to bring upon” or “to lead upon,” particularly regarding consequences or divine actions. It is used metaphorically to suggest bringing someone into a specific situation or state.

Thayer’s: Defines epagō as “to bring upon” or “to lead on,” frequently associated with causing or initiating events, such as blessings or judgments.

Vines: Highlights that epagō often implies a deliberate act of bringing something to fruition, especially within contexts of divine or authoritative actions.

LSJ (Liddell-Scott-Jones): Notes that epagō can mean “to lead towards” or “to bring forward,” especially in classical texts, where it might be used in contexts ranging from military commands to philosophical discussions.

Strong’s Exhaustive Concordance: Defines epagō as a combination of leading and bringing, especially in terms of results or consequences, such as bringing forth a certain action or event.

Related Scripture References

• 2 Peter 2:1: “But there were also false prophets among the people, just as there will be false teachers among you. They will secretly introduce destructive heresies, even denying the sovereign Lord who bought them—bringing [ἐπάγων] swift destruction on themselves.”
• Hebrews 6:6: “If they fall away, to be brought back to repentance, because to their loss they are crucifying the Son of God all over again and subjecting [ἐπάγοντας] him to public disgrace.”

Classical Usage

Summary of ἐπάγω (G1863: epagō)

The Greek verb epagō offers a multifaceted understanding of action and consequence in Biblical and classical literature. Whether it is leading, bringing upon, or inflicting, epagō captures the nuanced dynamics of cause and effect. This word not only appears in significant New Testament passages but also holds importance in classical Greek works, demonstrating its broad usage and relevance in ancient thought.

Did You Know?

• Did You Know? In classical Greek, epagō was used in both military and philosophical contexts, illustrating how leaders might “bring” their followers toward a specific goal or understanding. This same concept is adapted metaphorically in the New Testament to describe spiritual and moral leadership or consequences.