Introduction

Understanding the original Greek words used in the New Testament is crucial for interpreting biblical texts accurately. The word ἐμπί(μ)πρημι (empiprimē) is particularly significant because it encapsulates the concept of setting something on fire or inflaming it. This term is not only relevant in the context of physical fire but also has metaphorical implications, making it an important word for understanding the broader themes of passion, destruction, and divine judgment in biblical literature. Its usage in the New Testament offers valuable insights into how the ancient world perceived fire, both as a literal and symbolic element.

Key Information

• Greek Word: ἐμπί(μ)πρημι (empiprimē) [em-PEE-preh-mee]
• Etymology: The word ἐμπί(μ)πρημι is derived from the combination of ἐν (en, “in”) and the verb πίμπρημι (piprēmi, “to burn” or “to set on fire”). It reflects the act of igniting or inflaming something from within.
• Part of Speech: Verb (present active indicative, first person singular).
• The F.O.G Word Choice: Coming Soon

Primary Meanings

• To Set on Fire: The primary meaning of ἐμπί(μ)πρημι is to ignite or set something ablaze. This can refer to the physical act of starting a fire.
• To Inflame: Metaphorically, the word can also mean to inflame passions or emotions, indicating an intense stirring or arousal within a person.

Similar Words:

• καίω (kaiō) [KAI-oh]: Another Greek verb meaning “to burn” or “to set on fire.” While καίω is more commonly used in the New Testament, ἐμπί(μ)πρημι carries a more intense or internalized connotation of setting something ablaze.
• φλογίζω (phlogizō) [flo-GEE-zoh]: This verb also means “to set on fire” but is often used in a figurative sense to describe inflaming or inciting passions, similar to ἐμπί(μ)πρημι.

Further Insights:

• Morphology: ἐμπί(μ)πρημι is a compound verb, reflecting the fusion of internal action (ἐν, en) with the act of burning (πίμπρημι, piprēmi). The compound nature of the word emphasizes the intensity and direction of the action.
• Linguistic Features: The verb is typically used in the active voice, which signifies that the subject is directly performing the action of setting something on fire. It is rarely used in the New Testament, highlighting its specific and intense connotations when it does appear.

Lexicon Insights

BDAG:
The BDAG lexicon notes that ἐμπί(μ)πρημι is used to describe the act of setting something on fire, with possible metaphorical applications in contexts of stirring up emotions or passions. Its usage in ancient Greek literature often conveys a sense of overwhelming intensity.

Thayer’s:
Thayer’s lexicon emphasizes the literal and figurative uses of the word, noting its application to both physical fire and the metaphorical inflaming of emotions or situations. The lexicon also points out that the term is relatively rare in the New Testament.

Vine’s:
Vine’s Expository Dictionary discusses the word in the context of its metaphorical usage, particularly in how it can describe the stirring up of anger or other strong emotions. Vine’s also draws attention to the word’s compound structure, which adds depth to its meaning.

LSJ:
The Liddell-Scott-Jones lexicon traces the usage of ἐμπί(μ)πρημι in classical Greek literature, where it often appears in descriptions of physical conflagrations or metaphorical descriptions of passionate outbursts.

Strong’s Exhaustive Concordance:
Strong’s Concordance identifies ἐμπί(μ)πρημι as a verb meaning “to set on fire” or “to inflame.” It highlights its occurrence in contexts where intense action or emotion is being described.

Scripture References

• James 3:6 – “And the tongue is a fire, a world of unrighteousness. The tongue is set among our members, staining the whole body, setting on fire (ἐμπί(μ)πρημι) the entire course of life, and set on fire by hell.”

Classical Usage

Summary of ἐμπί(μ)πρημι (G1714: empiprimē)

The Greek word ἐμπί(μ)πρημι (empiprimē) is a verb meaning “to set on fire” or “to inflame,” used both literally and metaphorically in ancient Greek texts, including the New Testament. Its intense connotations make it a powerful word for describing both physical conflagrations and the stirring of emotions or passions. Understanding this word provides deeper insights into the biblical passages where it appears, particularly in contexts involving judgment, destruction, or the power of words. Its usage in classical Greek literature further highlights the cultural significance of fire as both a destructive and purifying force.

Did You Know?

The word ἐμπί(μ)πρημι is not only associated with physical fire but is also used in ancient Greek literature to describe the inflaming of passions or emotions. This duality of meaning reflects the complex nature of fire in ancient thought, where it could symbolize both destruction and enlightenment.