Title: Brief Overview of ἐπεγείρω (Strong’s G1892: epegeirō)

Introduction

Understanding Greek words in Biblical studies is crucial for grasping the nuances of the original text. The Greek word ἐπεγείρω (epegeirō) is particularly significant because it conveys the idea of awakening or stirring up, both physically and metaphorically. This word is relevant in New Testament interpretation, where it often describes actions that initiate or provoke a response, and in understanding how such terms were perceived in ancient Greek culture.

Key Information

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• The Greek Word: ἐπεγείρω (epegeirō) [ep-e-GHEE-ro]
• Etymology: From ἐπί (epi, “upon” or “over”) and ἐγείρω (egeirō, “to wake up” or “to raise”).
• Part of Speech: Verb (present, active, indicative)
• The F.O.G Word Choice: Coming Soon.

Primary Meanings

• To raise up, to awaken.
• To incite or stir up.
• To provoke or rouse to action, often used metaphorically.

Similar Words: ἐγείρω (egeirō) [e-GHEE-ro], meaning “to raise” or “to awaken,” shares the same root as ἐπεγείρω but lacks the prefix “ἐπι-” (epi), which adds a nuance of intensity or direction (“upon” or “over”). ἐπανίστημι (epanistēmi) [ep-an-IS-tee-mee] similarly means “to rise up,” often in a more confrontational context, indicating rebellion or a stand against something.

Further Insights: ἐπεγείρω is a compound verb formed with the prefix ἐπι-, which adds the sense of intensifying or directing the action “upon” something. It is primarily used in the present tense, active voice, and indicative mood, meaning the action is being performed in real-time by the subject. Below is a basic table chart showing its conjugation in the present tense:

Click here for a beginners guide to reading Greek.

Lexicon Insights

BDAG: Describes ἐπεγείρω as “to awaken” or “to arouse,” particularly from sleep, but also metaphorically in the sense of inciting action or emotion. It emphasizes contexts where something or someone is being stirred to action.

Thayers: Focuses on both literal and figurative meanings, noting that ἐπεγείρω is often used to describe awakening from sleep or inactivity, but also in stirring up emotions or reactions, such as provoking anger or courage.

Vines: Provides insights into the metaphorical use of ἐπεγείρω, especially in its New Testament context, where it often implies a call to action, whether spiritual, emotional, or even physical.

LSJ: Lists ἐπεγείρω in various ancient contexts, showing its use in both classical literature and the New Testament, where it carries a range of meanings from waking up to stirring up conflict or enthusiasm.

Strong’s Exhaustive Concordance: Defines ἐπεγείρω as “to awaken” or “to arouse,” emphasizing its usage in contexts where something or someone is being roused from a state of rest or inactivity.

Related Scripture References

• Mark 4:38: “But He was in the stern, asleep on a pillow. And they awoke Him [ἐπεγείρουσιν] and said to Him, ‘Teacher, do You not care that we are perishing?'”
• 2 Peter 1:13: “Yes, I think it is right, as long as I am in this tent, to stir you up [ἐπεγείρειν] by reminding you…”

Classical Usage

Summary of ἐπεγείρω (G1892)

The Greek word ἐπεγείρω (epegeirō) carries a rich range of meanings from “to awaken” to “to stir up.” Its usage in the New Testament context reflects both literal and metaphorical senses, often involving waking from sleep or inciting an emotional or spiritual response. In classical literature, it also conveys the sense of provocation or stimulation to action, showing the dynamic nature of the term across different contexts.

Did You Know?

Did you know? The word ἐπεγείρω is related to the English word “egregious,” which evolved to mean “remarkably bad” but originally meant “outstanding” or “standing out from the flock.” This shift in meaning reflects the concept of something being “stirred up” or “aroused” to a noticeable degree.