Brief Overview of ἐπιλείπω (Strong’s G1952: epileípō)

Introduction

Understanding Greek words is essential in Biblical studies, as it offers deeper insights into the text’s original meaning and context. The Greek word ἐπιλείπω (epileípō), Strong’s G1952, is particularly significant in the New Testament and classical Greek literature. This verb encapsulates the idea of leaving behind, remaining, or forsaking, which can be crucial in interpreting passages that discuss endurance, abandonment, or the state of being left. By examining this word, we can better appreciate its role in New Testament teachings and its influence in shaping ancient Greek thought.

Key Information

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• The Greek Word: ἐπιλείπω (epileípō) [eh-pee-LEE-po]
• Etymology root words and their meanings: Derived from ἐπί (epi, “upon” or “over”) and λείπω (leipō, “to leave” or “to forsake”), conveying the idea of leaving behind or remaining.
• Part of Speech: Verb; appears in various tenses, primarily active voice but also occasionally in the middle or passive forms.
• The F.O.G Word Choice: Coming Soon.

Primary Meanings

• To leave behind or abandon.
• To be left over, remain, or persist after others have left.
• To lack or fall short in some measure.

Similar Words: The word καταλείπω (kataleípō) [ka-ta-LEE-po], meaning “to leave” or “to abandon,” carries a similar idea of leaving something behind but often emphasizes the aspect of finality or abandonment. μεταλείπω (metaleípō) [me-ta-LEE-po], another related word, suggests leaving or passing on after oneself, often in the sense of a legacy. While ἐπιλείπω (epileípō) can have overlapping meanings with these words, it often focuses on what remains or endures after departure or abandonment.

Further Insights: The verb ἐπιλείπω is versatile and is used in both literal and metaphorical contexts. In some cases, it is used to describe physical departure or the act of leaving something behind. In other contexts, it can describe the concept of lacking or falling short, particularly in moral or spiritual senses. The following table provides a visual representation of its declension in the present tense:

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Lexicon Insights

• BDAG: Defines ἐπιλείπω as “to leave behind” or “to be left,” and also notes its use to signify “falling short” or “lacking.” It is often used metaphorically to describe spiritual or moral deficiencies.
• Thayers: Provides meanings such as “to leave” or “forsake,” emphasizing the context of someone or something being left behind. It also refers to a “remnant” that remains after others have gone.
• Vines: Explains that ἐπιλείπω is used to describe what remains after an action, whether a physical departure or a more abstract concept like faith or endurance.
• LSJ: Notes that in classical Greek literature, ἐπιλείπω means “to leave behind” or “to lack,” often used in contexts of scarcity or remaining after others.
• Strong’s Exhaustive Concordance: Describes ἐπιλείπω as “to leave” or “to fail,” indicating both the literal sense of departing and the figurative sense of lacking or failing in some respect.

Related Scripture References

• Hebrews 4:1: “Let us fear lest any of you should seem to have failed (ἐπιλείπειν) to reach it.”
• Hebrews 12:15: “See to it that no one fails (ἐπιλείπων) to obtain the grace of God…”
• 2 Corinthians 12:9: “But he said to me, ‘My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.’ Therefore I will boast all the more gladly of my weaknesses, so that the power of Christ may rest (ἐπιλείπει) upon me.”

Classical Usage

Summary of ἐπιλείπω (G1952)

The Greek word ἐπιλείπω (epileípō) is a verb that means “to leave behind,” “to remain,” or “to lack.” In the New Testament, it carries both literal and metaphorical meanings, often describing physical departure or the state of something remaining. It also has moral and spiritual connotations, where it can denote falling short or lacking in some measure. Its usage in classical Greek literature and the Septuagint adds depth to its understanding, reflecting contexts of endurance, persistence, or deficiency. Understanding ἐπιλείπω enhances our grasp of Biblical themes concerning faith, endurance, and divine presence.

Did You Know?

The Greek word ἐπιλείπω (epileípō) can also be used in military contexts to describe troops left behind to guard a position or supply line. This usage illustrates the idea of being “left” with a purpose, reinforcing the concept of a remnant or something that remains to fulfill a necessary role.