Introduction

Understanding Greek words is vital in Biblical studies as it helps uncover the depth and layers of meaning embedded in the original texts. The Greek word ἐπιβάλλω (transliterated as “epibállō”) is particularly significant because it conveys the idea of “throwing upon,” “casting,” or “laying upon.” This verb is crucial for interpreting New Testament passages that involve actions of casting, placing, or imposing, whether physically or metaphorically. By understanding ἐπιβάλλω, readers gain insight into how early Christian writings described actions that conveyed authority, control, or force in both literal and figurative contexts.

Key Information

• Greek Word: ἐπιβάλλω (epibállō) [eh-pee-BAH-loh]
• Etymology Root Words and Meanings:
• Derived from ἐπί (epi), meaning “upon” or “on,” and βάλλω (ballō), meaning “to throw” or “to cast.” Combined, ἐπιβάλλω translates to “to throw upon,” “to cast upon,” or “to lay upon.”
• Part of Speech: Verb, Active Voice
• Grammatical Details: Present tense, active voice, indicative mood, first person singular. This form indicates an ongoing or repeated action of casting or placing upon.
• The F.O.G Word Choice: Coming Soon.

Primary Meanings

• “To throw upon”
• “To cast upon”
• “To lay upon”
• “To put on”
• “To impose”

Similar Words:
The Greek word ῥίπτω (rhiptō) [HRIP-to], meaning “to throw” or “to cast,” is similar to ἐπιβάλλω. However, while ῥίπτω typically implies a sudden or forceful throw, ἐπιβάλλω often carries a sense of placing or imposing something with intent or purpose. Another related word is τιθέμι (tithēmi) [tee-THEH-mee], which means “to put” or “to place,” emphasizing a more deliberate or controlled action compared to the potentially forceful action of ἐπιβάλλω.

Further Insights:
As an active verb, ἐπιβάλλω involves direct and intentional action by the subject to cast or lay something upon a target. It is commonly used in contexts involving forceful or decisive actions, such as casting a garment upon someone, imposing hands, or casting a net. The present tense suggests an ongoing or habitual action, which is relevant in passages describing repeated or sustained actions.
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Lexicon Insights

BDAG:
The BDAG lexicon defines ἐπιβάλλω as a verb meaning “to throw upon” or “to cast upon.” It is often used in the New Testament to describe actions such as placing garments, casting nets, or imposing hands, indicating both physical and metaphorical applications.

Thayers:
Thayer’s lexicon describes ἐπιβάλλω as “to cast upon,” “to throw upon,” or “to put on.” It highlights the verb’s use in contexts where something is placed upon another person, object, or situation, often with a sense of force or authority.

Vines:
Vines Expository Dictionary categorizes ἐπιβάλλω under verbs of casting and placing, focusing on its use to describe decisive actions involving laying or placing objects or responsibilities upon others.

LSJ:
The Liddell-Scott-Jones (LSJ) lexicon provides a broad overview of ἐπιβάλλω as a verb meaning “to throw upon,” “to lay upon,” or “to impose.” It appears in classical Greek literature to denote both literal and metaphorical actions of placing or imposing.

Strong’s Exhaustive Concordance:
Strong’s Concordance lists ἐπιβάλλω as a verb meaning “to cast upon,” “to lay upon,” or “to put on.” It highlights its use in passages where a deliberate act of casting or imposing is described, whether in a physical sense or in terms of authority.

Related Scripture References

• Luke 15:12: “And the younger of them said to his father, Father, give me the portion of goods that falleth (ἐπιβάλλω) to me. And he divided unto them his living.”
• John 7:30: “Then they sought to take him: but no man laid (ἐπιβάλλω) hands on him, because his hour was not yet come.”
• Acts 13:3: “And when they had fasted and prayed, and laid (ἐπιβάλλω) their hands on them, they sent them away.”
• Mark 14:72: “And the second time the cock crew. And Peter called to mind the word that Jesus said unto him, Before the cock crow twice, thou shalt deny me thrice. And when he thought thereon (ἐπιβάλλω), he wept.”
• Acts 18:10: “For I am with thee, and no man shall set (ἐπιβάλλω) on thee to hurt thee: for I have much people in this city.”

Classical Usage

Summary of ἐπιβάλλω (G1911)

The Greek verb ἐπιβάλλω (epibállō) is a significant term in both Biblical and classical Greek literature, capturing the concept of “throwing upon,” “casting,” or “laying upon.” Its primary meanings revolve around the action of placing something upon someone or something, whether physically or metaphorically. In the New Testament, ἐπιβάλλω appears in contexts that emphasize actions of casting, imposing, or laying with intent or force. Understanding ἐπιβάλλω is essential for appreciating the narrative details, theological implications, and relational dynamics described in ancient texts.

Did You Know?

Did you know that the word ἐπιβάλλω can describe both literal and metaphorical actions? In Acts 13:3, the apostles “laid their hands” on Barnabas and Saul, symbolizing their commissioning for ministry. This physical act of laying hands signifies authority and blessing, demonstrating how ἐπιβάλλω can convey both concrete and symbolic meanings.