Introduction

Understanding Greek words is crucial for Biblical studies because they reveal the original nuances and depth of the Scriptures. The Greek word ἐπαναπαύομαι (epanapauomai) is particularly significant because it carries the idea of resting or relying upon something with confidence. This verb is important for interpreting passages that emphasize spiritual rest, reliance on God, or the cessation of striving. Additionally, understanding this word gives insight into ancient Greek culture’s perspective on rest, trust, and dependency.

Key Information

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• The Greek Word: ἐπαναπαύομαι, transliterated as epanapauomai [ep-an-ap-OW-om-ahee].
• Etymology: Derived from ἐπί (epi, meaning “upon” or “on”) and ἀναπαύομαι (anapauomai, meaning “to rest” or “to cease from labor”).
• Part of Speech: Verb; middle voice, indicative mood.
• The F.O.G Word Choice: Coming Soon.

Primary Meanings

• To rest upon or rely upon.
• To rest confidently.
• To find rest or repose on something or someone.

Similar Words: ἀναπαύομαι (anapauomai) [an-ap-OW-om-ahee], which also means “to rest” or “to cease from labor.” While ἀναπαύομαι generally refers to resting or ceasing from work, ἐπαναπαύομαι emphasizes the aspect of resting upon something with trust or confidence, adding a layer of dependency or reliance.

Further Insights: ἐπαναπαύομαι is a compound verb that combines ἐπί (“upon”) with ἀναπαύομαι (“to rest”). The addition of ἐπί intensifies the meaning, suggesting not just rest but resting upon something with a sense of trust or dependency. This verb follows the middle voice conjugation pattern in Greek, where the subject is both performing and receiving the action. This middle voice can imply a more personal or reflexive action, indicating rest that one finds or takes upon oneself.

Click here for a beginners guide to reading Greek to learn more about Greek verbs and their conjugation patterns.

Lexicon Insights

BDAG: Describes ἐπαναπαύομαι as “to rest upon” or “to rely upon,” often used in contexts where trust or confidence in something or someone is emphasized. It appears in metaphorical contexts to describe a deep spiritual rest or reliance.

Thayers: Defines ἐπαναπαύομαι as “to rest on” or “to lean upon,” particularly when referring to a deep, abiding trust or confidence that causes one to cease from other efforts or works.

Vines: Focuses on the connotation of “relying upon” or “resting upon” something in a confident manner. It points out that the verb suggests a cessation of activity due to trust or satisfaction.

LSJ: Lists ἐπαναπαύομαι as “to rest upon” or “to be satisfied with,” noting its usage in both literal and figurative senses to indicate reliance or contentment.

Strong’s Exhaustive Concordance: Identifies ἐπαναπαύομαι as a verb meaning “to rest upon” or “to depend upon,” derived from ἐπί and ἀναπαύομαι, emphasizing the cessation of activity upon trusting in something or someone.

Related Scripture References

• Romans 2:17: “But if you call yourself a Jew and rely [ἐπαναπαύῃ] on the law and boast in God.”

Classical Usage

Summary of ἐπαναπαύομαι (G1879: epanapauomai)

The Greek verb ἐπαναπαύομαι (epanapauomai) is a powerful term that conveys the idea of resting upon or relying upon something or someone with confidence. It is often used in contexts that emphasize spiritual rest, reliance on divine promises, or the cessation of efforts due to trust in a higher authority. This verb’s usage spans both Biblical and classical texts, reflecting a universal human need for trust, rest, and reliance.

Did You Know?

Did you know that in ancient Greek philosophy, ἐπαναπαύομαι was not only used in the context of physical rest but also in philosophical and ethical teachings? Philosophers like Plato and Aristotle used it to describe the act of resting or relying upon reason, wisdom, or virtue as the foundation for ethical living and decision-making.