Brief Overview of ἐπιβλέπω (Strong’s G1914: epiblépō)

Introduction

Understanding Greek words is crucial in Biblical studies, as it allows for a more profound comprehension of the original texts and their nuanced meanings. The Greek word ἐπιβλέπω (transliterated as “epiblépō”) is particularly significant because it conveys the idea of “looking upon,” “regarding,” or “considering” with attention or care. This verb is essential for interpreting New Testament passages where the action of looking or gazing carries deeper theological or relational implications. By understanding ἐπιβλέπω, readers can appreciate the importance of focus, attention, and perspective in the context of ancient Greek culture and biblical narratives.

Key Information

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• Greek Word: ἐπιβλέπω (epiblépō) [eh-pee-BLEH-po]
• Etymology Root Words and Meanings:
• Derived from ἐπί (epi), meaning “upon” or “on,” and βλέπω (blépō), meaning “to see” or “to look.” Together, ἐπιβλέπω translates to “to look upon” or “to regard attentively.”
• 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 looking or regarding attentively.
• The F.O.G Word Choice: Coming Soon.

Primary Meanings

• “To look upon”
• “To gaze at”
• “To regard attentively”
• “To consider”
• “To fix one’s gaze on”

Similar Words:
The Greek word θεωρέω (theōréō) [theh-oh-REH-oh], meaning “to behold” or “to observe,” is similar to ἐπιβλέπω. However, while θεωρέω emphasizes a more extended, careful observation or consideration, ἐπιβλέπω often implies a more immediate, purposeful gaze or attention. Another related word is σκοπέω (skopéō) [sko-PEH-oh], meaning “to watch” or “to examine,” which tends to have a more investigative or scrutinizing connotation compared to the more general regard implied by ἐπιβλέπω.

Further Insights:
As an active verb, ἐπιβλέπω involves an intentional action by the subject to direct their gaze or attention upon someone or something. It is commonly used in contexts involving observation, regard, or consideration, whether literal or metaphorical. The present tense suggests an ongoing or habitual action, which is relevant in passages describing a continued focus or attention.
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Lexicon Insights

BDAG:
The BDAG lexicon defines ἐπιβλέπω as a verb meaning “to look upon” or “to regard with favor or attention.” It is often used in the New Testament to describe God’s favorable regard toward someone or a careful, focused look by a person.

Thayers:
Thayer’s lexicon describes ἐπιβλέπω as “to look upon” or “to fix one’s eyes upon,” emphasizing its application in passages where someone is attentively gazing or directing their focus, often with significance or intent.

Vines:
Vines Expository Dictionary categorizes ἐπιβλέπω under verbs of seeing and observing, focusing on its use to describe actions where a person is directing their attention or gaze purposefully, often implying a deeper level of consideration or contemplation.

LSJ:
The Liddell-Scott-Jones (LSJ) lexicon provides a broad overview of ἐπιβλέπω as a verb meaning “to look upon” or “to regard.” It appears in classical Greek literature to denote actions where a person’s gaze is fixed upon someone or something, whether in a literal sense or with a deeper metaphorical significance.

Strong’s Exhaustive Concordance:
Strong’s Concordance lists ἐπιβλέπω as a verb meaning “to look upon,” “to gaze,” or “to regard.” It highlights its use in passages where a deliberate act of looking or regarding with intention or care is described, often implying both physical sight and emotional or spiritual consideration.

Related Scripture References

• Luke 1:25: “Thus hath the Lord dealt with me in the days wherein he looked on (ἐπιβλέπω) me, to take away my reproach among men.”
• Luke 9:38: “And, behold, a man of the company cried out, saying, Master, I beseech thee, look (ἐπιβλέπω) upon my son: for he is mine only child.”
• James 2:3: “And ye have respect (ἐπιβλέπω) to him that weareth the gay clothing, and say unto him, Sit thou here in a good place; and say to the poor, Stand thou there, or sit here under my footstool.”

Classical Usage

Summary of ἐπιβλέπω (G1914)

The Greek verb ἐπιβλέπω (epiblépō) is a significant term in both Biblical and classical Greek literature, capturing the concept of “looking upon,” “gazing,” or “regarding attentively.” Its primary meanings revolve around the act of directing one’s attention or focus upon someone or something, whether literally or metaphorically. In the New Testament, ἐπιβλέπω appears in contexts that emphasize careful consideration, favor, or attention, often carrying theological implications regarding God’s regard or human interactions. Understanding ἐπιβλέπω is essential for appreciating the narrative details, relational dynamics, and spiritual meanings described in ancient texts.

Did You Know?

Did you know that the word ἐπιβλέπω is used in Luke 1:25 to describe how God looked favorably upon Elizabeth, removing her reproach among men? This term reflects not just a simple gaze, but a deep, compassionate regard, illustrating how God sees and intervenes in the lives of His people.