Brief Overview of ἐπιπόθησις (Strong’s G1972: epipothesis)

Introduction

Understanding Greek words like ἐπιπόθησις (epipothesis) is crucial in Biblical studies because it sheds light on the depth of human emotion and spiritual longing expressed in the New Testament. This noun captures the essence of intense yearning or longing, often in a spiritual context, such as a desire for God’s presence or for deeper relationships within the faith community. Beyond its New Testament usage, ἐπιπόθησις also provides insight into how ancient Greeks expressed deep-seated desires, making it a significant term for interpreting both Biblical and classical Greek literature.

Key Information

• The Greek Word: ἐπιπόθησις (epipothesis) [eh-pee-POH-thee-sis]
• Etymology root words and their meanings: Derived from ἐπί (epi, “upon” or “intensive”) and ποθέω (potheō, “to desire” or “to yearn for”), forming a noun that conveys an intense desire or longing.
• Part of Speech: Noun; it is a feminine noun in Greek, typically in the first declension.
• The F.O.G Word Choice: Coming Soon.

Primary Meanings

• Intense longing
• Earnest desire
• Strong yearning

Similar Words: πόθος (pothos) [PO-thos], meaning “desire” or “longing.” While πόθος is a general term for desire, ἐπιπόθησις includes the prefix ἐπί (epi), which intensifies the meaning, suggesting a more fervent or deep-seated longing.

Further Insights: ἐπιπόθησις is a first declension feminine noun, indicating its grammatical behavior in sentences. The prefix ἐπί amplifies the root ποθέω, turning the simple act of desiring into an overwhelming longing or craving. Below is the declension chart for ἐπιπόθησις:

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Lexicon Insights

• BDAG: Defines ἐπιπόθησις as “an intense desire or yearning,” particularly in contexts where spiritual or emotional depth is emphasized.
• Thayers: Notes that ἐπιπόθησις implies a strong desire, often linked with a spiritual or divine longing. It is used in contexts where deep emotions are expressed, such as in prayer or in yearning for divine communion.
• Vines: Describes ἐπιπόθησις as denoting an earnest yearning or strong desire, frequently used to convey the spiritual intensity of an individual’s longing for God or fellowship among believers.
• LSJ: Provides a broader classical perspective, describing ἐπιπόθησις as “longing” or “desire,” noting its application in various Greek texts to convey emotional depth and intensity.
• Strong’s Exhaustive Concordance: Defines ἐπιπόθησις as “yearning” or “intense desire,” underscoring its role in expressing deep spiritual or emotional needs.

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Related Scripture References

• 2 Corinthians 7:7: “And not by his coming only, but by the consolation wherewith he was comforted in you, when he told us your earnest desire (ἐπιπόθησιν), your mourning, your fervent mind toward me; so that I rejoiced the more.”
• 2 Corinthians 7:11: “For behold this selfsame thing, that ye sorrowed after a godly sort, what carefulness it wrought in you, yea, what clearing of yourselves, yea, what indignation, yea, what fear, yea, what vehement desire (ἐπιπόθησιν), yea, what zeal, yea, what revenge! In all things ye have approved yourselves to be clear in this matter.”

Classical Usage

Summary of ἐπιπόθησις (G1972)

The Greek noun ἐπιπόθησις (epipothesis) captures the essence of an intense, often spiritual longing or desire. In the New Testament, it reflects the deep yearning of believers for divine presence or spiritual communion. The term’s use in classical Greek literature also underscores its emotional depth, applying to contexts of deep desire or craving, whether for divine, philosophical, or ethical aspirations. Understanding ἐπιπόθησις allows for a richer interpretation of texts where it appears, revealing the profound emotional and spiritual landscapes of the ancient world.

Did You Know?

The word ἐπιπόθησις is not only significant in Biblical contexts but also in ancient Greek philosophy, where it was often used to describe the deep yearning for truth, wisdom, or the divine. In both religious and philosophical writings, it speaks to a fundamental human experience: the desire for something greater than oneself, whether it be knowledge, connection, or spiritual fulfillment.