Brief Overview of ἐπιφωνέω (Strong’s G2019: epiphōnéō)

Introduction

Understanding Greek words is crucial for Biblical studies as it provides deeper insight into the meanings and nuances of the original texts. The Greek word ἐπιφωνέω (epiphōnéō), which means “to call out” or “to shout,” is particularly significant in both New Testament interpretation and the study of ancient Greek culture. This word reflects the ways in which communication, especially vocal expressions of strong emotions or commands, was perceived and described in ancient Greek literature and scripture. Its usage can often reveal the intensity and urgency behind messages or proclamations.

Key Information

• The Greek Word: ἐπιφωνέω (epiphōnéō) [eh-pee-foh-NEH-oh]
• Etymology: Composed of the prefix ἐπι- (epi-), meaning “upon” or “over,” and φωνέω (phōnéō), meaning “to speak” or “to call.” Together, they convey the act of calling out or shouting over a crowd or in a public setting.
• Part of Speech: Verb; typically used in the active voice, indicating an action performed by the subject.
• The F.O.G Word Choice: Coming Soon.

Primary Meanings

• To Call Out: To raise one’s voice in order to communicate, usually in a loud or emphatic manner.
• To Shout: To express something loudly, often with urgency or strong emotion.
• To Exclaim: To cry out or speak suddenly, typically in response to a situation or as a command.

Similar Words: βοάω (boáō) [boh-AH-oh], meaning “to cry out” or “to shout,” shares a similar meaning but often emphasizes a more desperate or urgent cry, often in distress or need. In contrast, ἐπιφωνέω focuses on a more controlled shout or exclamation, often used in addressing a group or audience.

Further Insights: The verb ἐπιφωνέω has various morphological forms depending on tense, mood, and voice. This is significant for understanding its usage in different contexts. Below is a table showing some of the primary conjugations in the present tense:

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

Lexicon Insights

BDAG:
epiphōnéō is defined as “to call out” or “to cry aloud,” often in a context where there is a need to be heard over a distance or above a crowd. It can imply urgency or the necessity of the message being delivered.

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Thayer’s Lexicon:
Describes epiphōnéō as “to shout” or “to speak loudly,” especially in situations where public attention or an immediate response is required. It may also denote authoritative commands given in a loud voice.

Vine’s Expository Dictionary:
Notes that epiphōnéō is often associated with dramatic or emphatic exclamations, where the intent is to capture attention or deliver a message forcefully.

LSJ (Liddell-Scott-Jones):
Highlights the use of epiphōnéō in classical Greek, indicating its common usage in public and rhetorical contexts to mean “to call out” or “to exclaim loudly.”

Strong’s Exhaustive Concordance:
Defines epiphōnéō as “to call out” or “to shout,” typically in an authoritative or commanding manner, often with the intent to make one’s voice heard clearly over others.

Related Scripture References

• Luke 23:21: “But they cried, saying, Crucify him, crucify him. And they shouted [ἐπιφωνέω (epiphōnéō)] all the more, demanding their way.”
• Matthew 27:23: “And the governor said, Why, what evil hath he done? But they cried out [ἐπιφωνέω (epiphōnéō)] the more, saying, Let him be crucified.”

Classical Usage

Summary of ἐπιφωνέω (G2019: epiphōnéō)

The Greek word ἐπιφωνέω (epiphōnéō), meaning “to call out,” “to shout,” or “to exclaim,” is used in contexts that involve loud and emphatic communication. It often conveys a sense of urgency or authority, whether in Biblical passages where crowds cry out or in classical Greek literature where public speakers or characters in plays raise their voices to command attention. Understanding this word enriches the interpretation of passages that involve strong emotional or authoritative expressions, providing a clearer picture of the dynamics of ancient speech and rhetoric.

Did You Know?

Did you know that the verb ἐπιφωνέω (epiphōnéō) was not just used for everyday shouting but also had significant roles in public oratory and drama in ancient Greece? This word would often describe how speakers addressed large assemblies or how actors delivered powerful lines on stage. The act of calling out or exclaiming was not just about volume but about the skillful delivery of emotion, authority, and urgency to persuade or move an audience.