Introduction

Understanding Greek words in Biblical studies is essential for interpreting the New Testament and gaining insight into the cultural practices of ancient Greek society. The word ἐπιστολή (Strong’s G1992: epistolē) is particularly significant as it refers to a letter or an epistle. In the context of the New Testament, this word is crucial for understanding the nature of early Christian communication, doctrinal instruction, and the spreading of the Gospel. It also sheds light on ancient Greek epistolary traditions, which were vital in personal, political, and philosophical discourse.

Key Information

• The Greek Word: ἐπιστολή (epistolē) [eh-pee-sto-LAY]
• Etymology: Derived from the verb ἐπιστέλλω (epistéllō), meaning “to send to” or “to dispatch,” combined with the suffix -ή, indicating the result of an action. Thus, it means “something sent” or “a letter.”
• Part of Speech: Noun; feminine; first declension.
• The F.O.G Word Choice: Coming Soon.

Primary Meanings

• A letter or written communication.
• An epistle, often referring to formal or instructional correspondence.
• A written message intended to convey information, instruction, or personal thoughts.

Similar Words: γράμμα (grámma) [GRA-ma] also means “letter,” but it refers more broadly to the written character or document itself rather than specifically to a message sent from one person to another as epistolē does. γράμμα can also mean a “writing” or “script” in a more general sense.

Further Insights: The noun ἐπιστολή belongs to the first declension, which typically includes feminine nouns. It appears frequently in early Christian writings, both in the New Testament and in other early Christian literature, signifying its importance in ancient communication. The structure of an ancient Greek letter often followed a conventional format, including an opening salutation, a body with the main message, and a closing farewell.

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

Lexicon Insights

BDAG:
ἐπιστολή is defined as “a letter” or “epistle,” referring specifically to written correspondence. It is used in contexts where formal communication is intended, often carrying a sense of authority or instruction.

Thayer’s Lexicon:
Describes epistolē as a “letter” or “epistle,” often implying a written communication that conveys commands, teachings, or doctrinal points, particularly in early Christian contexts.

Vine’s Expository Dictionary:
Notes that epistolē emphasizes the instructional nature of the letters found in the New Testament. It was a primary means of communication for the apostles and early Christian leaders, facilitating the spread of their teachings.

LSJ (Liddell-Scott-Jones):
Highlights that epistolē refers to any letter or written dispatch in ancient Greek literature, whether in personal, political, or philosophical discourse. It is associated with formal written communication.

Strong’s Exhaustive Concordance:
Defines epistolē as “a letter” or “message,” noting its use in both secular and sacred texts. It particularly emphasizes its role in conveying important messages, instructions, or doctrinal teachings.

Related Scripture References

• Acts 15:30: “So when they were dismissed, they came to Antioch: and when they had gathered the multitude together, they delivered the epistle [ἐπιστολήν (epistolēn)].”
• Romans 16:22: “I Tertius, who wrote this epistle [ἐπιστολήν (epistolēn)], salute you in the Lord.”
• 2 Corinthians 7:8: “For though I made you sorry with a letter [ἐπιστολῇ (epistolē)], I do not repent, though I did repent: for I perceive that the same epistle hath made you sorry, though it were but for a season.”

Classical Usage

Summary of ἐπιστολή (G1992: epistolē)

The Greek word ἐπιστολή (epistolē), meaning “letter” or “epistle,” is a feminine noun that refers to written communication, particularly letters conveying instructions, teachings, or personal messages. It is a key term in the New Testament, representing the epistles of Paul and other apostles that were crucial for the early Christian church’s doctrinal formation and encouragement. The word also appears in classical Greek literature and the Septuagint, showing its use in both personal and formal correspondence. Understanding the use of epistolē provides important insights into how ancient Greek society and early Christian communities communicated and preserved their teachings.

Did You Know?

Did you know that the word ἐπιστολή is the root of the modern English word “epistle,” which still refers to a formal letter, particularly those found in the New Testament? This etymological connection highlights how ancient forms of communication have shaped religious and literary traditions, preserving their relevance across millennia.