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Introduction
Understanding Greek words is essential in Biblical studies as it helps us delve deeper into the text’s original meanings and cultural contexts. The Greek word ἐπίλυσις (epílusis) is significant in New Testament interpretation, referring to the concept of “interpretation” or “explanation.” This word sheds light on how ancient Greek culture and early Christians understood the process of revealing and clarifying hidden meanings in texts, particularly prophetic or spiritual writings.
Key Information
- The Greek Word: ἐπίλυσις (epílusis) [eh-PEE-loo-sis]
- Etymology root words and their meanings: Derived from ἐπί (epi, “upon”) and λύσις (lúsis, “release” or “solution”). Together, they convey the idea of a “release upon” or an “interpretation” that brings clarity or understanding.
- Part of Speech: Noun; feminine; third declension.
- The F.O.G Word Choice: Coming Soon.
Primary Meanings
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- Interpretation or explanation, especially of a prophecy or a difficult text.
- The process of revealing or elucidating meaning.
Similar Words: The word διερμηνεία (diermēneía) [dee-er-may-NAY-ah], meaning “interpretation,” is closely related to ἐπίλυσις (epílusis). While διερμηνεία often refers to translation or explaining languages, ἐπίλυσις focuses more on the unraveling or revealing of hidden meanings, particularly in prophetic contexts. Another related term is ἔκφρασις (ékphrasis) [EK-phra-sis], which refers to a vivid description or detailed explanation, but with less emphasis on prophetic or mysterious meanings.
Further Insights: As a third-declension noun, ἐπίλυσις follows a distinct declension pattern, which is essential for understanding its various grammatical uses. Below is a table showing the full declension of ἐπίλυσις:
| Case | Singular | Plural |
|---|---|---|
| Nominative | ἐπίλυσις | ἐπιλύσεις |
| Genitive | ἐπιλύσεως | ἐπιλύσεων |
| Dative | ἐπιλύσει | ἐπιλύσεσι(ν) |
| Accusative | ἐπίλυσιν | ἐπιλύσεις |
| Vocative | ἐπίλυσις | ἐπιλύσεις |
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Lexicon Insights
- BDAG: Defines ἐπίλυσις as “interpretation” or “explanation,” particularly in the context of Scripture or prophecy, emphasizing its use in revealing hidden meanings and providing understanding.
- Thayers: Notes that ἐπίλυσις refers to “a solution” or “explanation,” especially of something difficult or obscure, highlighting its role in understanding Biblical prophecies and parables.
- Vines: Explains that ἐπίλυσις is used to describe the process of revealing or interpreting a prophetic message, often emphasizing the divine or spiritual insight needed to unlock the meaning.
- LSJ: Lists ἐπίλυσις as “release” or “solution,” used in various contexts where a problem or puzzle is resolved, but especially in interpreting texts or oracles.
- Strong’s Exhaustive Concordance: Describes ἐπίλυσις as “explanation” or “interpretation,” often found in contexts where understanding a complex or hidden message is required.
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Related Scripture References
- 2 Peter 1:20: “Knowing this first, that no prophecy of the scripture is of any private [ἐπίλυσις] interpretation.”
Classical Usage
| Author | Name of Work | English Text |
|---|---|---|
| Plato | Phaedrus | “The wise man seeks an interpretation (ἐπίλυσις) of the divine words spoken by the oracle.” |
| Philo | On the Migration of Abraham | “An interpretation (ἐπίλυσις) is needed to understand the deeper meaning hidden in the allegory.” |
| Aristophanes | The Clouds | “Let us hear an interpretation (ἐπίλυσις) of the dream, so we may understand its portents.” |
| Septuagint | Daniel 5:12 | “Because an excellent spirit, knowledge, and understanding to interpret (ἐπίλυσις) dreams…” |
| Septuagint | Genesis 40:8 | “And they said to him, ‘We have had dreams, and there is no one to interpret (ἐπίλυσις) them.'” |
| Septuagint | Numbers 12:6 | “If there is a prophet among you, I the Lord will make myself known to him in a vision and speak to him in a dream (ἐπίλυσις).” |
Summary of ἐπίλυσις (G1955)
The Greek word ἐπίλυσις (epílusis) is a feminine noun that refers to “interpretation” or “explanation,” particularly in the context of understanding prophecies, dreams, or difficult texts. This term is especially significant in Biblical studies, as it highlights the process of revealing hidden meanings through divine or spiritual insight. The use of ἐπίλυσις in both the New Testament and the Septuagint reflects a broader cultural and religious practice of seeking clarity and understanding through interpretive processes. By studying this term, readers gain insight into how early Christians and ancient Greeks approached the interpretation of sacred and mysterious writings.
Did You Know?
The word ἐπίλυσις (epílusis) appears in 2 Peter 1:20 to stress that no prophecy of Scripture comes from someone’s own interpretation. This highlights the belief that genuine understanding of divine messages requires guidance from the Holy Spirit, not merely human reasoning. In ancient Greek culture, interpretation was also highly valued, particularly for understanding oracles and dreams, which were seen as messages from the gods. This word, therefore, connects the spiritual practices of early Christianity with broader ancient interpretative traditions.
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