Introduction

Understanding Greek words is essential for gaining deeper insights into Biblical texts and their contexts. The word ἐπικαλέω (epikaléō), Strong’s G1941, is particularly significant because it means “to call upon” or “to invoke.” This verb is crucial in New Testament interpretation, especially in contexts involving calling upon the name of the Lord, invoking divine help, or addressing someone with a plea or request. In ancient Greek culture, calling upon gods, individuals, or authorities was an important practice that underscored dependence, respect, or a plea for assistance.

Key Information

• The Greek Word: ἐπικαλέω (epikaléō) [eh-pee-ka-LEH-o]
• Etymology root words and their meanings: From ἐπί (epi, “upon”) and καλέω (kaléō, “to call”), meaning “to call upon” or “to invoke.”
• Part of Speech: Verb. This word follows regular Greek verb conjugation patterns.
• The F.O.G Word Choice: Coming Soon.

Primary Meanings

• To call upon or invoke, especially in prayer or supplication.
• To appeal to or request help from someone, such as a deity or authority.
• To name or call by name, often in the context of invoking someone’s presence or assistance.

Similar Words: Related Greek words include καλέω (kaléō) [ka-LEH-o], meaning “to call” or “to summon,” and παρακαλέω (parakaléō) [pa-ra-ka-LEH-o], meaning “to exhort” or “to encourage.” While καλέω is a more general term meaning “to call,” ἐπικαλέω (epikaléō) emphasizes the act of “calling upon” someone with intention or for a specific purpose. παρακαλέω, on the other hand, conveys the idea of calling alongside, implying comfort, encouragement, or an appeal.

Further Insights: The verb ἐπικαλέω is a compound formed from the preposition ἐπί (epi), meaning “upon,” and the verb καλέω (kaléō), which means “to call.” This combination intensifies the action, suggesting not just a general call but “calling upon” someone for a specific reason, such as in prayer, supplication, or invocation. The word is often used in both literal and metaphorical contexts, from calling upon God for help to invoking someone’s name in a legal or formal setting.
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Lexicon Insights

• BDAG: Describes ἐπικαλέω as “to call upon, invoke,” often in contexts where a deity or divine name is invoked in prayer, worship, or supplication. It can also mean “to call by name” or “to name” in more formal or legal contexts.
• Thayers: Notes that ἐπικαλέω refers to “to call upon” or “to invoke,” particularly in prayers or appeals to God. It is used to express a dependence on divine help or intervention.
• Vines: Highlights that ἐπικαλέω implies “to call upon” or “to appeal to,” with a focus on invoking the name of the Lord or seeking assistance from a higher power. It is a term that carries both religious and social significance.
• LSJ: In classical Greek literature, ἐπικαλέω is noted to mean “to call upon” or “to invoke,” often in legal, religious, or formal contexts where one appeals to gods, authorities, or individuals for support or judgment.
• Strong’s Exhaustive Concordance: Describes it as “to invoke” or “to appeal to,” emphasizing the sense of calling upon someone, particularly in prayer or during times of need.

Related Scripture References

• Acts 2:21: “And it shall come to pass that whoever calls (ἐπικαλέσηται) on the name of the Lord shall be saved.”
• Romans 10:13: “For whoever calls (ἐπικαλέσηται) on the name of the Lord shall be saved.”
• 1 Corinthians 1:2: “To the church of God which is at Corinth, to those who are sanctified in Christ Jesus, called to be saints, with all who in every place call (ἐπικαλουμένοις) on the name of Jesus Christ our Lord, both theirs and ours.”

Classical Usage

Summary of ἐπικαλέω (G1941)

The Greek word ἐπικαλέω (epikaléō) is a verb that means “to call upon,” “to invoke,” or “to appeal to.” It holds significant importance in both Biblical and classical Greek literature, where it describes the act of calling upon a deity, authority, or individual for help, support, or judgment. In the New Testament, it is frequently used in the context of calling upon the name of the Lord for salvation, indicating a deep reliance on divine assistance. Its use in classical texts reflects its broader application in both religious and legal settings, where invoking a name or authority is a powerful act of appeal.

Did You Know?

In ancient Greek culture, calling upon (ἐπικαλέω) a deity or authority was not only a religious act but also a legal and social practice. For example, in courts, individuals might invoke the gods or respected ancestors to affirm their truthfulness or seek justice. This dual use—both sacred and civic—highlights the intertwined nature of religion and daily life in ancient Greece. In the New Testament, the concept of calling upon the Lord emphasizes faith, dependence, and the assurance of divine response, reinforcing the importance of invoking God in both personal and communal worship.