Introduction
Understanding Greek words in Biblical studies is vital for unlocking the deeper meanings and contexts within the scriptures. The word ἐπιγράφω (epigráphō), Strong’s G1924, is particularly significant as it conveys the act of inscribing or writing upon a surface, often denoting authority, ownership, or declaration. Its usage in the New Testament and ancient Greek culture adds layers of meaning to the texts where it appears, making it an important term for students and scholars of Biblical languages.
Key Information
- The Greek Word: ἐπιγράφω (epigráphō) [eh-pee-GRA-fo]
- Etymology Root Words: From ἐπί (epi, “upon”) and γράφω (graphō, “to write”), meaning “to write upon” or “inscribe.”
- Part of Speech: Verb. This word is a compound verb and follows typical Greek verb conjugation patterns.
- The F.O.G Word Choice: Coming Soon.
Primary Meanings
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- To inscribe or engrave upon a surface.
- To write upon or mark with words.
- To designate or describe by writing.
Similar Words: Related Greek words include γράφω (graphō) [GRA-fo], which generally means “to write,” and χαράσσω (charassō) [kha-RAS-so], meaning “to engrave” or “to carve.” While γράφω is a broader term for writing, ἐπιγράφω (epigráphō) specifically involves writing upon a surface, often to convey something permanent or authoritative.
Further Insights: The verb ἐπιγράφω is a compound formed by adding the prefix ἐπι- (epi-) to γράφω, intensifying the act of writing to indicate inscription upon something, such as a stone, wall, or document. This word is typically used in contexts where the act of writing has a declarative or official purpose. In the New Testament, it often appears in legal, religious, or symbolic contexts.
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Lexicon Insights
- BDAG: Defines ἐπιγράφω as “to write upon” or “inscribe,” often used in contexts involving official or permanent writing, such as on monuments, public documents, or inscriptions on crosses. The term carries a sense of authority or formality.
- Thayers: Notes that ἐπιγράφω is used to describe the action of inscribing or marking something with words. It is frequently found in contexts where a declaration or identification is made through writing.
- Vines: Highlights the use of ἐπιγράφω in New Testament passages to indicate inscription for purposes of ownership, declaration, or identification. It points out the significance of this term in legal or religious contexts where written words carry authority.
- LSJ: In classical texts, ἐπιγράφω is noted as meaning “to write upon” or “to inscribe,” often used for inscriptions on public buildings, monuments, or statues. It implies an act that conveys ownership, commemoration, or public record.
- Strong’s Exhaustive Concordance: Describes it as “to inscribe” or “write upon,” often implying an official or formal action. It highlights its usage in contexts like legal documents or inscriptions on altars, tombstones, and other permanent surfaces.
Related Scripture References
- Mark 15:26: “And the inscription of the accusation was written (ἐπεγράφη) above, ‘THE KING OF THE JEWS.'”
- Luke 23:38: “Now there was also an inscription above Him, ‘THIS IS THE KING OF THE JEWS.'”
- Revelation 21:12: “It had a great and high wall with twelve gates, and at the gates twelve angels; and names were written (ἐπιγεγραμμένα) on them, which are the names of the twelve tribes of the sons of Israel.”
Classical Usage
| Author | Name of Work | English Text |
|---|---|---|
| Herodotus | Histories | “The monument was inscribed (ἐπεγράφη) with the names of the fallen warriors.” |
| Sophocles | Antigone | “Upon the stone, they inscribed (ἐπεγράφη) the fate of the accused.” |
| Plutarch | Lives of the Noble Greeks | “The pillar was inscribed (ἐπεγράφη) with an oath of allegiance.” |
| Septuagint | Exodus | “He wrote (ἐπεγράφη) upon the tablets the words of the covenant, the Ten Words.” |
| Septuagint | Deuteronomy | “You shall write (ἐπιγράψετε) them on the doorposts of your house and on your gates.” |
| Septuagint | Isaiah | “The words were inscribed (ἐπεγράφη) upon the scroll by the prophet.” |
Summary of ἐπιγράφω (G1924)
The Greek word ἐπιγράφω (epigráphō) is a verb that means “to write upon” or “to inscribe.” It carries significant implications in both Biblical and classical Greek literature, where it often denotes the act of engraving or marking something with words for purposes of declaration, ownership, or commemoration. In the New Testament, its use in contexts like the inscription above Jesus’ cross or the names on the gates of New Jerusalem highlights its importance for understanding declarations of authority or identity. The word also appears in classical Greek literature, underscoring its broad application and cultural significance.
Did You Know?
In ancient Greek and Roman societies, inscriptions (ἐπιγραφάς) were not merely for decoration but often held legal and political authority. They were used to announce laws, commemorate victories, or mark significant religious dedications, playing a crucial role in the public and private lives of ancient peoples.
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