Brief Overview of ἐπιμέλεια (Strong’s G1958: epiméleia)

Introduction

Understanding Greek words in Biblical studies helps uncover deeper meanings in New Testament texts and provides insights into ancient Greek culture. The word ἐπιμέλεια (epiméleia) is particularly significant as it reflects the concept of “care,” “attention,” or “diligence.” This noun appears in contexts where attentive care or thoughtful management is required, emphasizing the importance of these qualities in both personal and communal life in ancient times.

Key Information

• The Greek Word: ἐπιμέλεια (epiméleia) [eh-pee-MEH-lee-ah]
• Etymology root words and their meanings: Derived from ἐπί (epi, “upon” or “over”) and μέλω (melō, “to care” or “to be concerned”). Together, they convey the sense of overseeing with attention or care.
• Part of Speech: Noun, feminine; first declension.
• The F.O.G Word Choice: Coming Soon.

Primary Meanings

• Care
• Attention
• Management
• Diligence

Similar Words: The word μέριμνα (mérimna) [MEH-ree-mnah], meaning “anxiety” or “care,” is closely related to ἐπιμέλεια (epiméleia). While μέριμνα often carries a negative connotation of worry or anxiety, ἐπιμέλεια emphasizes a positive sense of careful attention or management. Another related word is πρόνοια (prónoia) [PROH-noy-ah], which means “forethought” or “providence,” focusing more on planning and preparation for future needs, contrasting with ἐπιμέλεια, which focuses on current attentive care.

Further Insights: As a first declension feminine noun, ἐπιμέλεια follows the standard pattern for Greek nouns of its type. Below is a table showing the full declension of ἐπιμέλεια:

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Lexicon Insights

• BDAG: Defines ἐπιμέλεια as “care” or “attention,” particularly in the sense of careful management or oversight, often used in contexts where meticulous care is required.
• Thayers: Notes that ἐπιμέλεια refers to “diligent care” or “attention,” emphasizing its use in situations demanding conscientiousness and attentiveness.
• Vines: Explains ἐπιμέλεια as an act of “careful management” or “oversight,” highlighting its relevance in contexts where thoughtful administration or care is essential.
• LSJ: Lists ἐπιμέλεια as “care” or “attention,” especially in administrative, managerial, or medical contexts where precision and attentiveness are crucial.
• Strong’s Exhaustive Concordance: Describes ἐπιμέλεια as “care” or “attention,” with an emphasis on diligent oversight or thoughtful management.

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Related Scripture References

• Luke 10:34: “And went to him, and bound up his wounds, pouring in oil and wine, and set him on his own beast, and brought him to an inn, and took care [ἐπιμελεία] of him.”
• Acts 17:29: “Forasmuch then as we are the offspring of God, we ought not to think that the Godhead is like unto gold, or silver, or stone, graven by art and man’s device [ἐπιμελεία].”

Classical Usage

Summary of ἐπιμέλεια (G1958)

The Greek word ἐπιμέλεια (epiméleia) translates as “care,” “attention,” or “diligence.” It is used in the New Testament and classical literature to express the idea of careful management or attentive oversight, whether in a personal, communal, or professional context. The word underscores the importance of conscientiousness and diligence in various aspects of life, including education, governance, medicine, and spirituality.

Did You Know?

The concept of ἐπιμέλεια (epiméleia) was so important in ancient Greek culture that it was often applied to the realm of philosophy and education. Plato, for instance, used this word to describe the careful attention needed in the upbringing and education of youth, emphasizing how such care is foundational to building good character. The term’s use in various fields from household management to medical practice shows the universal value placed on attentiveness and thoroughness in ancient societies.