Introduction

In Biblical studies, understanding the nuances of Greek words is vital for a deeper comprehension of the Scriptures. The word ἐκπλήρωσις (ekplḗrōsis) is particularly significant because it conveys the concept of fulfillment or completion, which is central to many New Testament teachings. This term not only helps in interpreting the New Testament but also offers insights into ancient Greek culture, where the idea of fulfilling obligations or prophecies was a powerful concept.

Key Information

• Greek Word: ἐκπλήρωσις (ekplḗrōsis) [ek-pleh’-ro-sis]
• Etymology: Derived from the verb ἐκπληρόω (ekplēróō), meaning “to fulfill completely,” combined with the suffix -σις (-sis), which forms a noun indicating the action or process of fulfilling.
• Part of Speech: Noun (Feminine, Third Declension)
• The F.O.G Word Choice: Coming Soon

Primary Meanings

• Completion
• Fulfillment
• The act of bringing something to full measure or fruition

Similar Words: The word πληρώσις (plērōsis) is related but differs slightly. While πληρώσις generally refers to the process of filling or making full, ἐκπλήρωσις emphasizes the complete and final fulfillment, particularly in contexts involving prophecy or divine will.

Further Insights:

• Morphology: ἐκπλήρωσις is a feminine noun in the third declension, emphasizing the result of the action described by the verb ἐκπληρόω. The suffix -σις often turns verbs into nouns, focusing on the process or result of an action.
• Grammatical Features: The word’s declension is as follows:

Lexicon Insights

• BDAG: ἐκπλήρωσις is defined as “the act of fulfillment or completion.” It highlights the importance of this term in understanding the complete realization of prophecies and promises, particularly in a religious context.
• Thayers: This lexicon describes ἐκπλήρωσις as “the state of having been completed or fulfilled,” especially in reference to the fulfillment of divine will or prophecy.
• Vines: In Vines’ Expository Dictionary, ἐκπλήρωσις is discussed as the “complete realization” of something that was anticipated or promised, emphasizing its theological implications.
• LSJ: The term is associated with the act of bringing something to completion, often in legal or contractual contexts in classical Greek literature.
• Strongs Exhaustive Concordance: Defines ἐκπλήρωσις simply as “completion” or “fulfillment,” often used in the New Testament to describe the realization of God’s plans or prophecies.

Scripture References

• Luke 21:24 – “And they will fall by the edge of the sword and be led captive among all nations, and Jerusalem will be trampled underfoot by the Gentiles, until the times of the Gentiles are fulfilled (ἐκπλήρωσις).”
• Acts 13:33 – “This he has fulfilled (ἐκπλήρωσις) to us their children by raising Jesus, as also it is written in the second Psalm, ‘You are my Son, today I have begotten you.’”

Classical Usage

Summary of ἐκπλήρωσις (G1604: ekplḗrōsis)

The Greek word ἐκπλήρωσις (ekplḗrōsis) captures the concept of complete fulfillment or realization, especially in the context of prophecies or divine plans. This term, deeply rooted in both New Testament theology and classical Greek literature, emphasizes the thorough and final nature of completion. Understanding ἐκπλήρωσις enhances our grasp of the biblical texts, where fulfillment is a central theme, and connects us to the broader cultural and linguistic context of the ancient world.

Did You Know?

The suffix -σις (-sis) in Greek often turns verbs into nouns that describe the action or result of the verb, much like the English suffix “-tion.” In ἐκπλήρωσις, this suffix highlights the process and result of fulfillment, making it a powerful term for expressing completion in both religious and secular contexts.