Introduction

Understanding Greek words is fundamental to Biblical studies as it allows us to delve deeper into the meanings and cultural contexts of the New Testament writings. The Greek verb ἐπινεύω (epineuō) is particularly significant because it involves the concept of giving consent or signaling agreement through a gesture. This word provides insight into how non-verbal communication was perceived and utilized in ancient Greek culture and how it appears in scriptural contexts to convey assent or approval.

Key Information

• The Greek Word: ἐπινεύω (epineuō) [eh-pee-NYOO-oh]
• Etymology root words and their meanings: Derived from ἐπί (epi, “upon” or “toward”) and νεύω (neuō, “to nod” or “to beckon”), ἐπινεύω implies the action of nodding in agreement or signaling.
• Part of Speech: Verb (present active indicative)
• The F.O.G Word Choice: Coming Soon.

Primary Meanings

• To nod in agreement
• To give a signal or sign
• To consent or assent

Similar Words: The word νεύω (neuō) [NYOO-oh], which simply means “to nod,” is related but lacks the prefix ἐπι (epi), which adds a sense of direction or emphasis to the action. Another similar word is συμφημί (symphēmi) [soom-FAY-mee], which means “to agree” or “to affirm together.” While ἐπινεύω focuses on the non-verbal gesture of nodding, συμφημί is more about verbal agreement.

Further Insights: The verb ἐπινεύω appears primarily in the present active indicative form, which suggests an ongoing or repeated action of giving a nod or signaling. This usage reflects the communicative practices of ancient Greeks, where nodding was a common form of non-verbal consent. The word does not have extensive morphological variations but can appear in different tenses to convey slight differences in meaning.

Click here for a beginners guide to reading Greek.

Lexicon Insights

• BDAG: Defines ἐπινεύω as “to give assent by nodding,” used in contexts where someone confirms or signals agreement non-verbally.
• Thayers: Notes that ἐπινεύω means “to nod” or “to give consent,” particularly in scenarios involving gestures or body language.
• Vines: Explains ἐπινεύω as a verb that conveys the act of nodding or signaling agreement, emphasizing non-verbal communication in ancient contexts.
• LSJ: Lists ἐπινεύω as “to nod assent” or “to indicate by nodding,” highlighting its role in both formal and informal agreements.
• Strong’s Exhaustive Concordance: Describes ἐπινεύω as meaning “to signal or give consent by a nod,” commonly found in passages related to agreement or affirmation.

Related Scripture References

• Luke 1:62: “And they made signs [ἐπενεύον] to his father, how he would have him called.”
• Acts 24:10: “Then Paul, after that the governor had beckoned [ἐπινεύσαντος] unto him to speak, answered, Forasmuch as I know that thou hast been of many years a judge unto this nation, I do the more cheerfully answer for myself.”

Classical Usage

Summary of ἐπινεύω (G1962)

The Greek verb ἐπινεύω (epineuō) is used to convey the act of nodding or giving a non-verbal signal of agreement or consent. This word reflects an important aspect of communication in both ancient Greek culture and the New Testament context. It emphasizes the significance of gestures and non-verbal actions in conveying meanings and agreements. ἐπινεύω is used both literally and metaphorically to express agreement or approval in a manner that complements verbal communication.

Did You Know?

The act of nodding as a form of non-verbal communication has a long history that transcends cultures. In ancient Greece, nodding (expressed by the word ἐπινεύω) was often a means of giving assent or signaling agreement without words. This practice is not far from modern customs where nodding is still a universal gesture for “yes” or “I agree.” In literature and drama, the nod has often been portrayed as a powerful gesture capable of conveying decisions, consent, or even blessings.