Brief Overview of ἐπεῖδον (Strong’s G1896)

Introduction

Understanding Greek words is fundamental in Biblical studies, as it helps uncover the depth and nuance of the original texts. The Greek word ἐπεῖδον (transliterated as “epeidon”) is significant because it provides insight into how sight, perception, and attention are portrayed in ancient texts, including the New Testament. This verb’s usage in Scripture and classical literature reflects its importance in describing divine revelation, human understanding, and introspection.

Key Information

• Greek Word: ἐπεῖδον (epeidon) [eh-PEY-don]
• Etymology Root Words and Meanings:
• Derived from the verb ὁράω (horaō), meaning “to see” or “to perceive.” The prefix ἐπί (epi) adds a sense of direction or focus, making ἐπεῖδον convey the act of “looking upon” or “considering.”
• Part of Speech: Verb
• Grammatical Details: Second aorist active indicative, first person singular form. This verb form often indicates a completed action in the past.
• The F.O.G Word Choice: Coming Soon.

Primary Meanings

• “Looked upon”
• “Beheld”
• “Observed”
• “Considered carefully”

Similar Words:
The word βλέπω (blepō) [BLEH-po], another Greek word for “to see,” is similar but differs in nuance. While βλέπω often refers to simple, physical sight, ἐπεῖδον carries a deeper meaning of attentive observation or careful consideration. Another similar word, θεωρέω (theōreō) [the-oh-REH-oh], implies watching or perceiving with sustained attention, often with a more philosophical or contemplative tone.

Further Insights:
ἐπεῖδον is a second aorist form of the verb ὁράω (horaō). This form indicates a simple past action that is complete, often used in narratives to describe events that are significant but brief. The aorist tense emphasizes the completeness of the action, making ἐπεῖδον suitable for contexts where a decisive or momentary act of seeing is highlighted.
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Lexicon Insights

BDAG:
The BDAG lexicon describes ἐπεῖδον as an aorist form of ὁράω, meaning “to see” or “to perceive.” It emphasizes the verb’s usage in contexts where looking involves perception or understanding beyond mere physical sight.

Thayers:
Thayer’s lexicon provides the definition of ἐπεῖδον as “to look upon, behold, observe,” noting its function in New Testament passages where looking signifies attention or contemplation, rather than a simple glance.

Vines:
Vines Expository Dictionary categorizes ἐπεῖδον under “seeing” verbs but highlights its unique nuance of attentive observation or discerning look. It is often associated with divine visions or moments of realization.

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LSJ:
The Liddell-Scott-Jones (LSJ) lexicon outlines ἐπεῖδον’s usage in classical Greek as “to behold” or “to see with focus.” It appears in both literature and philosophy, emphasizing an intentional act of seeing, often with mental or emotional engagement.

Strong’s Exhaustive Concordance:
Strong’s Concordance lists ἐπεῖδον as a verb meaning “to behold” or “to observe,” and it is presented as an aorist form of ὁράω, used in contexts implying more than just a casual glance but a purposeful gaze or observation.

Related Scripture References

• Acts 7:31: “When Moses saw it, he wondered at the sight: and as he drew near to behold (ἐπεῖδον) it, the voice of the Lord came unto him.”
• Luke 10:18: “And he said unto them, I beheld (ἐπεῖδον) Satan as lightning fall from heaven.”
• Acts 2:25: “For David speaketh concerning him, I foresaw (ἐπεῖδον) the Lord always before my face, for he is on my right hand, that I should not be moved.”

Classical Usage

Summary of ἐπεῖδον (G1896)

The Greek verb ἐπεῖδον (epeidon) is integral to understanding how seeing and perceiving are portrayed in both biblical texts and classical Greek literature. Its primary meanings of “beheld,” “observed,” and “considered carefully” reveal its depth as more than just a physical act of sight but an intentional and thoughtful observation. The use of ἐπεῖδον in the New Testament often points to moments of revelation, insight, or significant perception, making it a valuable word for students of Greek, Biblical scholars, and those interested in ancient literature and philosophy.

Did You Know?

Did you know that the Greek verb ἐπεῖδον is frequently used in contexts of divine revelation or epiphany in both the New Testament and classical Greek literature? This emphasizes the importance of attentive and discerning observation, highlighting moments when the divine intersects with the human understanding of reality.