Brief Overview of ἐπιμελέομαι (Strong’s G1959: epimeleomai)

Introduction

Understanding Greek words is essential in Biblical studies because it helps uncover deeper layers of meaning in the New Testament and provides insight into ancient Greek culture. The Greek word ἐπιμελέομαι (epimeleomai) is particularly significant as it denotes the act of taking care, managing, or overseeing something or someone with attention and diligence. This verb is found in contexts that emphasize the importance of conscientious care and responsibility.

Key Information

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• The Greek Word: ἐπιμελέομαι (epimeleomai) [eh-pee-meh-LEH-oh-my]
• 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 attentive care.
• Part of Speech: Verb; middle voice, present tense.
• The F.O.G Word Choice: Coming Soon.

Primary Meanings

• To care for
• To manage
• To oversee
• To take responsibility for

Similar Words: The word προνοέω (pronoeō) [pro-no-EH-oh], meaning “to foresee” or “to provide for,” is related to ἐπιμελέομαι but emphasizes planning ahead rather than the ongoing care suggested by ἐπιμελέομαι. Another related word is φροντίζω (phrontizō) [fron-TID-zo], which means “to be concerned about” or “to care for,” but often with a sense of anxiety or worry, whereas ἐπιμελέομαι carries a more positive connotation of diligent care.

Further Insights: As a verb in the middle voice, ἐπιμελέομαι suggests an action done for one’s own benefit or interest. It is conjugated in the present tense, indicating a continuous or habitual action. Below is a table showing the full conjugation of ἐπιμελέομαι in the present tense:

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Lexicon Insights

• BDAG: Defines ἐπιμελέομαι as “to take care of” or “to manage,” often referring to the care of persons, objects, or tasks that require attentive oversight.
• Thayers: Notes that ἐπιμελέομαι involves “careful attention” or “management,” particularly in contexts where diligence and responsibility are emphasized.
• Vines: Explains ἐπιμελέομαι as an act of “caring for” or “managing,” focusing on the idea of looking after something or someone with intentionality and responsibility.
• LSJ: Lists ἐπιμελέομαι as “to take care of” or “to give attention to,” highlighting its usage in various contexts, including personal management, household oversight, and guardianship.
• Strong’s Exhaustive Concordance: Describes ἐπιμελέομαι as “to care for” or “to take charge of,” emphasizing the aspect of careful supervision or management.

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 [ἐπεμελήθη] of him.”
• 1 Timothy 3:5: “For if a man know not how to rule his own house, how shall he take care [ἐπιμελήσεται] of the church of God?”

Classical Usage

Summary of ἐπιμελέομαι (G1959)

The Greek verb ἐπιμελέομαι (epimeleomai) means “to care for,” “to manage,” or “to oversee.” It conveys the idea of taking responsibility for something or someone with diligence and conscientious attention. This word is significant in both Biblical and classical literature, where it is often used to describe the careful management or guardianship of people, tasks, or resources. The term underscores the value placed on attentive and responsible care in both personal and communal contexts.

Did You Know?

The word ἐπιμελέομαι (epimeleomai) was used in ancient Greek philosophy to describe the careful attention needed for self-care and governance. Aristotle, for example, associated this word with the cultivation of virtue, suggesting that caring for one’s soul and actions is central to leading a good life. Similarly, Plato used this term to describe the ideal ruler’s duty to manage and protect the well-being of his city, much like a shepherd who attentively looks after his flock.