Introduction

In Biblical studies, understanding the original Greek words deepens our comprehension of the scriptures and their contextual meanings. The word ἐπιθανάτιος (epithanátios), Strong’s G1935, is particularly significant because it refers to someone who is “appointed to death” or “condemned to die.” This term holds relevance for New Testament interpretation, especially when discussing themes of martyrdom, suffering, or the fate of early Christians who were persecuted. It also reflects ancient Greek culture, where the concept of being appointed to death or facing a life-threatening situation was a poignant reality, often discussed in legal, philosophical, and dramatic contexts.

Key Information

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• The Greek Word: ἐπιθανάτιος (epithanátios) [eh-pee-tha-NA-tee-os]
• Etymology Root Words: From ἐπί (epi, “upon”) and θάνατος (thánatos, “death”), meaning “upon death” or “destined for death.”
• Part of Speech: Adjective. This word follows the second declension pattern in Greek grammar.
• The F.O.G Word Choice: Coming Soon.

Primary Meanings

• Appointed to death.
• Condemned to die.
• Facing death or about to die.

Similar Words: Related Greek words include θάνατος (thánatos) [THA-na-tos], meaning “death,” and καταδικάζω (katadikázō) [ka-ta-di-KA-zo], meaning “to condemn” or “sentence to death.” While θάνατος refers simply to the state of death, ἐπιθανάτιος (epithanátios) emphasizes the condition of being appointed or destined for death, often due to condemnation or circumstance. καταδικάζω focuses on the act of condemning or sentencing, rather than the state or condition of the condemned.

Further Insights: The adjective ἐπιθανάτιος is formed by combining the prefix ἐπί (epi-), meaning “upon,” with the noun θάνατος (thánatos), meaning “death.” This construction suggests a state of being over or upon death, implying an imminent or certain fate. The term is often used to describe those who are facing death as a result of condemnation or persecution, particularly in legal or dramatic contexts.
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Lexicon Insights

• BDAG: Describes ἐπιθανάτιος as “doomed to death” or “appointed to die,” especially in contexts where individuals are condemned or marked for execution. It conveys a sense of a certain and impending death.
• Thayers: Defines ἐπιθανάτιος as “appointed to death,” particularly highlighting its use in describing those who are condemned or given over to death, such as prisoners or martyrs.
• Vines: Notes that ἐπιθανάτιος implies being “doomed” or “destined to die,” often under conditions of persecution or judgment. It is a term that carries a weight of finality and impending fate.
• LSJ: In classical Greek literature, ἐπιθανάτιος is noted to mean “on the verge of death” or “condemned to death,” used to describe individuals facing execution or suffering from fatal injuries.
• Strong’s Exhaustive Concordance: Describes it as “condemned to die,” often used in contexts where someone’s death is a predetermined outcome, whether by law, fate, or persecution.

Related Scripture References

• 1 Corinthians 4:9: “For I think that God has exhibited us apostles last of all, as men condemned to die (ἐπιθανατίους); because we have become a spectacle to the world, both to angels and to men.”

Classical Usage

Summary of ἐπιθανάτιος (G1935)

The Greek word ἐπιθανάτιος (epithanátios) is an adjective that means “appointed to death,” “condemned to die,” or “facing death.” It is significant in both Biblical and classical Greek literature, where it describes individuals who are marked for death or condemned to die, often due to legal sentences, war, or persecution. In the New Testament, it is used to describe the apostles who were treated as “condemned to die,” emphasizing the suffering and persecution faced by early Christian leaders. Its use in classical texts underscores its broader application in legal, dramatic, and philosophical discussions about fate, justice, and the human condition.

Did You Know?

In ancient Greek literature, the term ἐπιθανάτιος (epithanátios) was often used in dramatic contexts to describe characters who were sentenced to death or faced fatal circumstances. This usage was not just limited to legal settings but also applied to warriors, prisoners, or tragic figures in plays. It reflected the Greek understanding of fate (μοῖρα) and the inevitability of death, themes that were central to much of Greek tragedy and philosophy.