G1966
Introduction
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Understanding Greek words in Biblical studies, such as ἔπειμι (epeimi), is essential for interpreting the New Testament’s nuanced language. This word, though less frequently used, reveals the subtleties of movement and presence, offering insight into both the ancient Greek cultural context and the broader narrative framework of Scripture. Its usage spans both literal and metaphorical contexts, making it a versatile term worth exploring.
Key Information
- The Greek Word: ἔπειμι (epeimi) [EH-peh-ee-mee]
- Etymology root words and their meanings: Derived from the prefix ἐπί (epi, “upon” or “over”) and the verb εἰμί (eimi, “to be”), ἔπειμι carries the idea of “coming upon” or “approaching.”
- Part of Speech: Verb; it is used in the present active indicative form.
- The F.O.G Word Choice: Coming Soon.
Primary Meanings
- To come upon
- To approach or be present
- To be at hand
Similar Words: ἐγγίζω (engízō) [en-GEE-zo], meaning “to draw near” or “to approach,” is often used more broadly for nearing or coming close. παρίστημι (parístēmi) [pa-RIS-te-mee], meaning “to stand beside” or “to present,” has a more specific connotation of positioning oneself next to something or someone, whereas ἔπειμι emphasizes the idea of arrival or impending presence.
Further Insights: ἔπειμι is primarily used in the present tense and is part of a small group of Greek verbs with a compound formation combining ἐπί (epi) and εἰμί (eimi). Below is a basic conjugation chart of ἔπειμι:
| Tense/Voice | Indicative |
|---|---|
| Present Active | ἔπειμι (epeimi) |
| Future Active | ἐπέσομαι (epesomai) |
| Imperfect Active | ἦν ἔπειμι (ēn epeimi) |
| Perfect Active | (No classical usage) |
| Aorist Active | (No classical usage) |
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Lexicon Insights
- BDAG: Defines ἔπειμι as “to come upon,” typically in contexts where an arrival is expected or impending, often conveying urgency or inevitability.
- Thayers: Notes ἔπειμι as “to be present” or “to approach,” often describing a situation that is imminent or close at hand.
- Vines: Highlights the word’s usage in the New Testament to signify something “coming upon” or an event that is about to occur, emphasizing anticipation or readiness.
- LSJ: Provides examples from classical literature where ἔπειμι is used to describe the act of approaching, often with a connotation of movement or arrival.
- Strong’s Exhaustive Concordance: Defines ἔπειμι as “to come upon” or “to approach,” primarily used to depict scenarios where presence or arrival is highlighted.
Related Scripture References
- Acts 20:18: “And when they were come to him, he said unto them, Ye know, from the first day that I came into Asia, after what manner I have been with you at all seasons.” (Context: Paul uses a form of ἔπειμι to describe his approach and presence among the people.)
Classical Usage
| Author | Name of Work | English Text |
|---|---|---|
| Homer | Iliad | “And when the enemy would come upon (ἔπειμι) the camp, the warriors stood their ground.” |
| Herodotus | Histories | “The army approached (ἔπειμι) the city walls with great caution, knowing the strength of its defenses.” |
| Thucydides | History of the Peloponnesian War | “The fleet was to come upon (ἔπειμι) the shores at dawn, ready for the confrontation.” |
| Septuagint | Psalms 21:4 | “For thou preventest him with the blessings of goodness: thou settest a crown of pure gold on his head (ἔπειμι).” |
| Septuagint | Isaiah 41:25 | “I have raised up one from the north, and he shall come: from the rising of the sun shall he call upon (ἔπειμι) my name.” |
| Septuagint | Jeremiah 46:21 | “Also her hired men are in the midst of her like fatted bullocks; for they also are turned back, and are fled away together: they did not stand, because the day of their calamity was come upon (ἔπειμι) them.” |
Summary of ἔπειμι (G1966)
The Greek word ἔπειμι (epeimi) is a verb that signifies the act of coming upon, approaching, or being present. It is formed from the combination of ἐπί (“upon”) and εἰμί (“to be”). This word often conveys a sense of immediacy or urgency, whether in the context of someone arriving or something impending. It is used in various ways in both classical Greek literature and the Septuagint, indicating its versatility and the depth of its meaning. Understanding ἔπειμι allows for a more profound comprehension of New Testament passages where the concept of arrival or presence is central.
Did You Know?
The word ἔπειμι has a similar form to ἔπειτα (epeita), which means “then” or “thereafter.” While they share the same root, ἔπειμι is a verb describing action and presence, whereas ἔπειτα is an adverb indicating sequence. Both words, however, contribute to the nuanced ways ancient Greeks understood the progression of time and action.