Introduction

Understanding Greek words is essential in Biblical studies as it helps in grasping the depth and subtleties of the original texts. The Greek word ἐπιβαρέω (transliterated as “epibaréō”) is particularly significant because it conveys the idea of “weighing down,” “burdening,” or “oppressing.” This verb is crucial for interpreting New Testament passages that involve actions of placing burdens or causing distress, both in physical and metaphorical senses. By understanding ἐπιβαρέω, readers gain insight into the social, emotional, and spiritual dynamics in early Christian writings and ancient Greek culture.

Key Information

• Greek Word: ἐπιβαρέω (epibaréō) [eh-pee-bah-REH-oh]
• Etymology Root Words and Meanings:
• Derived from ἐπί (epi), meaning “upon” or “on,” and βαρέω (bareō), meaning “to burden” or “to weigh down.” Together, ἐπιβαρέω translates to “to burden upon” or “to weigh heavily upon.”
• Part of Speech: Verb, Active Voice
• Grammatical Details: Present tense, active voice, indicative mood, first person singular. This form indicates a continuous or repeated action of burdening or weighing down.
• The F.O.G Word Choice: Coming Soon.

Primary Meanings

• “To weigh down”
• “To burden”
• “To oppress”
• “To lay a burden upon”
• “To trouble”

Similar Words:
The Greek word καταβαρέω (katabaréō) [kah-tah-bah-REH-oh], meaning “to press down” or “to overwhelm,” is similar to ἐπιβαρέω. However, while καταβαρέω emphasizes a pressing or overwhelming force, ἐπιβαρέω often implies an added burden or weight that causes strain. Another related word is πιέζω (piézō) [pee-EH-zo], meaning “to press” or “to oppress,” which can refer to a more direct, physical pressure rather than the broader burden or weight implied by ἐπιβαρέω.

Further Insights:
As an active verb, ἐπιβαρέω involves a direct action by the subject to place a burden upon someone or something. It is commonly used in contexts involving physical burdens, emotional strains, or metaphorical pressures. The present tense suggests an ongoing or habitual action, which is relevant in passages describing continuous or repetitive burdens.
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Lexicon Insights

BDAG:
The BDAG lexicon defines ἐπιβαρέω as a verb meaning “to weigh down” or “to burden.” It is often used in contexts involving emotional or physical distress caused by an added weight or responsibility.

Thayers:
Thayer’s lexicon describes ἐπιβαρέω as “to burden” or “to weigh heavily upon.” It highlights the verb’s use in passages where someone or something is subjected to a burden, whether physical, emotional, or spiritual.

Vines:
Vines Expository Dictionary categorizes ἐπιβαρέω under verbs of burden and pressure, focusing on its use to describe actions that impose weight or cause distress, whether metaphorical (such as a burden of responsibility) or literal (such as physical weight).

LSJ:
The Liddell-Scott-Jones (LSJ) lexicon provides a broad overview of ἐπιβαρέω as a verb meaning “to weigh upon” or “to impose a burden.” It appears in classical Greek literature to denote both literal burdens (like a physical weight) and metaphorical ones (like stress or responsibility).

Strong’s Exhaustive Concordance:
Strong’s Concordance lists ἐπιβαρέω as a verb meaning “to burden,” “to weigh down,” or “to trouble.” It highlights its use in passages where a deliberate act of imposing a burden is described, whether in a tangible or intangible sense.

Related Scripture References

• 2 Corinthians 2:5: “But if any have caused grief, he hath not grieved me, but in part: that I may not overcharge (ἐπιβαρέω) you all.”
• 2 Corinthians 12:13: “For what is it wherein ye were inferior to other churches, except it be that I myself was not burdensome (ἐπιβαρέω) to you? forgive me this wrong.”
• 1 Thessalonians 2:9: “For ye remember, brethren, our labour and travail: for labouring night and day, because we would not be chargeable (ἐπιβαρέω) unto any of you, we preached unto you the gospel of God.”

Classical Usage

Summary of ἐπιβαρέω (G1912)

The Greek verb ἐπιβαρέω (epibaréō) is a significant term in both Biblical and classical Greek literature, capturing the concept of “weighing down,” “burdening,” or “oppressing.” Its primary meanings revolve around the act of imposing a weight or burden on someone or something, whether literally or metaphorically. In the New Testament, ἐπιβαρέω appears in contexts that emphasize the avoidance of becoming a burden to others or highlight the strain caused by specific actions or behaviors. Understanding ἐπιβαρέω is crucial for appreciating the emotional, spiritual, and relational nuances described in ancient texts.

Did You Know?

Did you know that the word ἐπιβαρέω is often used in the New Testament to emphasize the importance of not becoming a burden to others? In 2 Corinthians 12:13, Paul reflects on his efforts to avoid burdening the Corinthian church financially or emotionally, showcasing his commitment to serving with humility and care.