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Introduction
Understanding Greek words in Biblical studies is essential for grasping the depth and nuances within New Testament texts. The Greek word ἐπαρκέω (eparkeō) holds particular significance, as it conveys ideas of sufficiency, assistance, and provision. This term appears in contexts that reflect both spiritual and practical applications, offering insight into the culture, societal values, and theological themes of the ancient Greek world and early Christian communities.
Key Information
- The Greek Word: ἐπαρκέω, transliterated as eparkeō [eh-par-KEH-oh].
- Etymology: Derived from ἐπί (epi, meaning “upon”) and ἀρκέω (arkeō, meaning “to suffice” or “to be enough”).
- Part of Speech: Verb.
- The F.O.G Word Choice: Coming Soon.
Primary Meanings
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- To aid or assist.
- To be sufficient for a need.
- To provide what is necessary or adequate.
Similar Words: ἀρκέω (arkeō) [ar-KEH-oh], meaning “to suffice” or “to be content.” While ἐπαρκέω implies a sense of active provision or support, ἀρκέω tends to focus on the idea of sufficiency or contentment in a more passive or internal sense.
Further Insights: ἐπαρκέω combines the prefix ἐπί (“upon”) with ἀρκέω (“to suffice”), reinforcing the idea of something being sufficiently provided or supported upon a need. This word appears in the context of both secular and sacred literature, emphasizing not only the act of provision but also the sufficiency of the provision to meet the requirements at hand. As a verb, it often highlights an active intervention or support that is deemed adequate or fitting for the situation.
Click here for a beginners guide to reading Greek to learn more about Greek verbs and their usage.
Lexicon Insights
BDAG: Defines ἐπαρκέω as “to provide what is necessary,” often with an emphasis on sufficient aid or assistance in contexts of need or support.
Thayers: Describes ἐπαρκέω as “to assist” or “to be sufficient for,” indicating both the act of helping and the adequacy of the help provided.
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Vines: Notes that ἐπαρκέω conveys the idea of providing aid or being sufficient for a particular situation, often used in contexts where the sufficiency of help is emphasized.
LSJ: Lists ἐπαρκέω as “to aid” or “to be sufficient,” with usage in both secular and philosophical texts to describe adequate provision or assistance.
Strong’s Exhaustive Concordance: Recognizes ἐπαρκέω as “to assist” or “to be enough,” highlighting its usage in contexts where sufficient support or help is provided.
Related Scripture References
- 1 Timothy 5:16: “If any believing woman has widows, let her relieve them, and let not the church be burdened; that it may relieve (ἐπαρκέω) those that are widows indeed.”
Classical Usage
| Author | Name of Work | English Text with Greek Word in Parentheses |
|---|---|---|
| Aristotle | Nicomachean Ethics | “The good life requires not only virtue but also sufficient (ἐπαρκέω) resources.” |
| Xenophon | Cyropaedia | “He ensured his men had sufficient provisions (ἐπαρκέω) for the long march.” |
| Herodotus | Histories | “The gods provided adequately (ἐπαρκέω) for those who served them.” |
| Septuagint Example | Ecclesiastes 1:8 (LXX) | “All things are full of weariness; man cannot utter it; the eye is not satisfied with seeing, nor the ear filled (ἐπαρκέω) with hearing.” |
| Septuagint Example | Wisdom of Solomon 6:12 (LXX) | “Wisdom is radiant and unfading, and she is easily discerned by those who love her and found by those who seek her.” (ἐπαρκέω in context of sufficiency of wisdom). |
| Septuagint Example | Psalm 33:10 (LXX) | “The young lions do lack, and suffer hunger: but they that seek the Lord shall not want any good thing.” (ἐπαρκέω indicating sufficiency). |
Summary of ἐπαρκέω (G1884: eparkeō)
The Greek word ἐπαρκέω (eparkeō), meaning “to aid,” “to assist,” or “to be sufficient,” is an essential verb for understanding Biblical and classical Greek contexts involving provision, sufficiency, and support. Its use in the New Testament, as well as in classical Greek literature and the Septuagint, demonstrates its versatility in describing the adequacy of aid or help in various settings. By delving into its lexicon meanings and usage in scripture, readers can gain deeper insight into how early Christian writers and ancient Greek thinkers communicated the concept of sufficiency and support in both material and spiritual matters.
Did You Know?
Did you know that ἐπαρκέω not only describes physical sufficiency, such as providing food or resources, but is also used to express the sufficiency of divine aid and wisdom? In ancient Greek thought, as reflected in philosophical texts and the Septuagint, ἐπαρκέω conveys the assurance that divine provision is always adequate, aligning with early Christian views on God’s sufficiency in meeting human needs.
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