Brief Overview of ἐποικοδομέω (Strong’s G2026: epoikodomeō)

Introduction

Understanding Greek words is essential in Biblical studies as it provides deeper insight into the text and context of Scripture. The Greek word ἐποικοδομέω (epoikodomeō), which means “to build upon” or “to edify,” is particularly significant. It is often used in the New Testament to describe spiritual growth and the strengthening of the Christian community. Understanding this term helps us comprehend the metaphorical language used by early Christians to convey the idea of building a strong foundation of faith and the communal effort required in spiritual development.

Key Information

• The Greek Word: ἐποικοδομέω (epoikodomeō) [eh-poy-ko-do-MEH-oh]
• Etymology: Derived from the preposition ἐπί (epi), meaning “upon,” and the verb οἰκοδομέω (oikodomeō), meaning “to build.” The root word οἶκος (oikos) refers to a “house” or “building,” and δόμος (domos) relates to “construction.”
• Part of Speech: Verb; used in the present active indicative form.
• The F.O.G Word Choice: Coming Soon.

Primary Meanings

• To build upon: Refers to constructing on an already established foundation, often used metaphorically in the New Testament.
• To edify: The act of strengthening or encouraging others, particularly in a spiritual or moral sense.
• To build up: Similar to “edify,” this phrase is used to describe the process of nurturing spiritual growth and development within a community.

Similar Words: οἰκοδομέω (oikodomeō) [oy-ko-do-MEH-oh], meaning “to build” or “to construct.” While οἰκοδομέω generally refers to the act of building or erecting structures, ἐποικοδομέω emphasizes building upon an existing foundation, often metaphorically used for spiritual or moral edification.

Further Insights: ἐποικοδομέω is a verb in the present active indicative form, denoting continuous or repeated action. It belongs to the regular conjugation pattern of Greek verbs. The word is frequently used in Pauline letters to encourage believers to continue building upon their faith with strong foundations laid by Jesus Christ and the apostles.

Click here for a beginner’s guide to reading Greek: Understanding Greek Grammar: A Beginner’s Guide.

Lexicon Insights

BDAG:
Defines epoikodomeō as “to build upon” or “to build up,” especially in a metaphorical sense where it implies strengthening or encouraging spiritual or moral growth. The term is frequently used in Pauline writings, where it signifies the continuous process of spiritual construction.

Thayer’s Lexicon:
Describes epoikodomeō as “to build upon a foundation,” particularly in a spiritual context. Thayer emphasizes its use in the New Testament to convey the idea of nurturing and developing the Christian faith and community.

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Vine’s Expository Dictionary:
Explains epoikodomeō as “to build upon” or “to edify,” particularly regarding spiritual growth and community building. Vine notes that the word is often used metaphorically for spiritual development and encouragement.

LSJ (Liddell-Scott-Jones):
Lists epoikodomeō as “to build upon” or “to erect additional structures,” particularly in contexts involving architectural imagery or metaphors. It highlights its broader application in both secular and religious contexts to describe construction and development.

Strong’s Exhaustive Concordance:
Defines epoikodomeō as “to build upon” or “to build up,” focusing on its use in the New Testament to convey the idea of constructing upon a firm foundation, both literally and metaphorically.

Related Scripture References

• 1 Corinthians 3:10-12: “According to the grace of God given to me, like a skilled master builder I laid a foundation, and someone else is building upon [ἐποικοδομεῖ (epoikodomei)] it. Let each one take care how he builds upon [ἐποικοδομεῖ (epoikodomei)] it.”
• Ephesians 2:20-22: “Built on the foundation of the apostles and prophets, Christ Jesus himself being the cornerstone, in whom the whole structure, being joined together, grows into a holy temple in the Lord. In him, you also are being built together [ἐποικοδομεῖσθε (epoikodomeisthe)] into a dwelling place for God by the Spirit.”
• Colossians 2:7: “Rooted and built up [ἐποικοδομοῦμενοι (epoikodomoumenoi)] in him and established in the faith, just as you were taught, abounding in thanksgiving.”

Classical Usage

Summary of ἐποικοδομέω (G2026: epoikodomeō)

The Greek verb ἐποικοδομέω (epoikodomeō), meaning “to build upon” or “to edify,” is integral to understanding the New Testament’s teachings on spiritual growth and community. It emphasizes the ongoing process of building upon a foundation, which, in the context of Christian teaching, often refers to the foundation of faith laid by Jesus Christ and the apostles. This word illustrates the importance of continual growth, encouragement, and nurturing within the Christian community. Its use in both classical Greek literature and the Septuagint highlights its broader implications of building, reinforcing, and developing upon a strong foundation in both spiritual and secular contexts.

Did You Know?

Did you know that the Greek word ἐποικοδομέω (epoikodomeō) not only refers to physical construction but also symbolizes the process of character building in Greek philosophy? Ancient Greek thinkers like Plato and Aristotle used this word to describe how virtues and wisdom are “built upon” foundational ethical principles, mirroring how early Christian writers adopted the term to depict spiritual growth and community edification.