Brief Overview of ἐπιβαίνω (Strong’s G1910: epibainō)

Introduction

Understanding Greek words is crucial in Biblical studies as it enables readers to grasp the depth and nuances of the original texts. The Greek word ἐπιβαίνω (transliterated as “epibainō”) is particularly significant because it conveys the idea of “stepping on,” “coming upon,” or “embarking.” This verb is essential for interpreting New Testament passages where movement, travel, or authority is described. By understanding ἐπιβαίνω, readers gain insight into both physical and metaphorical movements within biblical narratives and the broader context of ancient Greek culture.

Key Information

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• Greek Word: ἐπιβαίνω (epibainō) [eh-pee-BYE-no]
• Etymology Root Words and Meanings:
• Derived from ἐπί (epi), meaning “upon” or “on,” and βαίνω (bainō), meaning “to go” or “to step.” Together, ἐπιβαίνω means “to step upon,” “to embark,” or “to set foot on.”
• Part of Speech: Verb, Active Voice
• Grammatical Details: Present tense, active voice, indicative mood, first person singular. This form indicates a continuous or repeated action of stepping or embarking.
• The F.O.G Word Choice: Coming Soon.

Primary Meanings

• “To step upon”
• “To come upon”
• “To embark”
• “To set foot on”
• “To ascend”

Similar Words:
The Greek word ἀναβαίνω (anabainō) [ah-nah-BYE-no], meaning “to go up” or “to ascend,” is similar to ἐπιβαίνω. However, while ἀναβαίνω emphasizes the upward movement, ἐπιβαίνω focuses on stepping or coming upon a surface or area. Another related word is καταβαίνω (katabainō) [kah-tah-BYE-no], meaning “to go down” or “to descend,” which contrasts with ἐπιβαίνω by describing a downward movement rather than stepping upon.

Further Insights:
As a verb, ἐπιβαίνω reflects a direct and deliberate action by the subject to step upon or ascend. It is commonly used in contexts involving movement, travel, or gaining control over a particular area or object. The present tense suggests an ongoing or habitual action, which is particularly relevant in passages where repeated actions or continuous states are described.
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Lexicon Insights

BDAG:
The BDAG lexicon defines ἐπιβαίνω as a verb meaning “to step on” or “to come upon.” It often refers to physical actions, such as boarding a ship, stepping onto a surface, or approaching a place with authority.

Thayers:
Thayer’s lexicon describes ἐπιβαίνω as “to step upon” or “to go upon,” with an emphasis on embarking or ascending. It highlights its use in passages where there is movement toward a goal or onto a specific surface.

Vines:
Vines Expository Dictionary categorizes ἐπιβαίνω under verbs of motion and ascent, focusing on its use to describe actions involving physical or metaphorical stepping, ascending, or embarking, such as getting onto a boat or moving towards a location.

LSJ:
The Liddell-Scott-Jones (LSJ) lexicon provides a broad overview of ἐπιβαίνω as a verb meaning “to step upon” or “to ascend.” It appears in classical Greek literature to denote both literal stepping on surfaces and figurative concepts of advancing or taking control.

Strong’s Exhaustive Concordance:
Strong’s Concordance lists ἐπιβαίνω as a verb meaning “to step upon,” “to ascend,” or “to embark.” It highlights its use in passages describing physical movement or positioning, as well as its metaphorical application in describing gaining authority or control.

Related Scripture References

• Luke 5:3: “And he entered into one of the ships, which was Simon’s, and prayed him that he would thrust out a little from the land. And he sat down, and taught the people out of the ship (ἐπιβαίνω).”
• Acts 20:18: “And when they were come to him, he said unto them, Ye know, from the first day that I came into Asia, after what manner I have been with you at all seasons.” (Describing the movement upon arrival, implied usage).
• John 21:3: “Simon Peter saith unto them, I go a fishing. They say unto him, We also go with thee. They went forth, and entered (ἐπιβαίνω) into a ship immediately; and that night they caught nothing.”

Classical Usage

Summary of ἐπιβαίνω (G1910)

The Greek verb ἐπιβαίνω (epibainō) is a significant term in both Biblical and classical Greek literature, capturing the concept of “stepping upon,” “coming upon,” or “embarking.” Its primary meanings revolve around the act of stepping onto a surface, embarking on a journey, or taking a position of authority. In the New Testament, ἐπιβαίνω appears in contexts that emphasize the action of movement, ascent, or gaining a position, whether literal or metaphorical. Understanding ἐπιβαίνω is essential for appreciating the narrative details and deeper theological implications in ancient texts.

Did You Know?

Did you know that the word ἐπιβαίνω is used to describe both literal and metaphorical actions of stepping or embarking? In Luke 5:3, it describes Jesus entering a boat to teach the crowds, reflecting both a physical action and a symbolic moment of engaging with the people. This dual usage showcases the word’s versatility in conveying multiple layers of meaning.