Introduction

Understanding Greek words like ἐπισκιάζω (episkiazō) is crucial in Biblical studies as it sheds light on deeper meanings and contexts within the New Testament and ancient Greek culture. This word, which generally means “to overshadow” or “to cast a shadow upon,” carries significant theological implications, particularly in the context of divine presence and protection. Its usage in the New Testament reveals a rich tapestry of imagery associated with God’s protective power and the mystery of divine intervention.

Key Information

• The Greek Word: ἐπισκιάζω (episkiazō) [eh-pee-skee-AH-zoh]
• Etymology root words and their meanings: Derived from ἐπί (epi, “upon”) and σκιά (skia, “shadow”).
• Part of Speech: Verb (Active Voice); used to describe the act of casting a shadow upon, often metaphorically to signify divine presence or influence.
• The F.O.G Word Choice: Coming Soon.

Primary Meanings

• To overshadow or to cast a shadow upon
• To envelop or cover, especially with a shadow
• To influence or control by presence, often with a divine or supernatural connotation

Similar Words: σκιάζω (skiazō) [skee-AH-zoh], meaning “to shadow” or “to shade.” While ἐπισκιάζω specifically includes the prefix ἐπί (“upon”), adding a nuance of an intense overshadowing or enveloping, σκιάζω is a simpler form that refers more generally to creating shade or shadowing.

Further Insights: ἐπισκιάζω is a compound verb that intensifies the meaning of its root. The prefix ἐπί adds a sense of deliberate action or purpose, indicating not just a shadow but an enveloping presence. Below is a table showing the conjugation of ἐπισκιάζω in the present tense:

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Lexicon Insights

• BDAG: Defines ἐπισκιάζω as “to overshadow” or “to envelop with shadow,” often used to describe the divine presence that comes upon someone, such as the overshadowing by the Holy Spirit. It suggests a protective or authoritative covering.
• Thayers: Describes ἐπισκιάζω as “to cast a shadow upon” and “to envelop,” primarily used metaphorically in reference to divine protection or influence, especially in the New Testament context where God’s Spirit overshadows individuals or places.
• Vines: Notes that ἐπισκιάζω implies a form of influence or control that comes from a divine or supernatural source. It is associated with significant moments of divine intervention, such as the Annunciation.
• LSJ: Lists ἐπισκιάζω as “to overshadow” or “to cast a shadow over,” used both literally for natural phenomena and metaphorically for divine influence or presence.
• Strong’s Exhaustive Concordance: Defines ἐπισκιάζω as “to cast a shade upon” or “to overshadow,” specifically in reference to the Holy Spirit or divine presence that covers and protects.

Related Scripture References

• Matthew 17:5 – “While he was still speaking, a bright cloud overshadowed [ἐπεσκίασεν] them, and a voice from the cloud said, ‘This is my beloved Son, with whom I am well pleased; listen to him.’”
• Luke 1:35 – “And the angel answered her, ‘The Holy Spirit will come upon you, and the power of the Most High will overshadow [ἐπισκιάσει] you; therefore the child to be born will be called holy—the Son of God.’”
• Acts 5:15 – “So that they even carried out the sick into the streets and laid them on cots and mats, that as Peter came by at least his shadow [ἐπισκιάσει] might fall on some of them.”

Classical Usage

Summary of ἐπισκιάζω (G1982)

The Greek verb ἐπισκιάζω (episkiazō) is rich with theological and cultural significance, especially in the New Testament and Septuagint contexts. It means “to overshadow” or “to envelop,” carrying connotations of divine protection, influence, and presence. In the New Testament, it is used to describe instances where God’s power or presence is manifest, such as the overshadowing of Mary by the Holy Spirit. This term illustrates the depth and mystery of divine interaction with humanity, resonating with the themes of God’s protective care and sovereign authority over creation.

Did You Know?

The word ἐπισκιάζω is closely tied to the concept of the “Shekinah” in Jewish tradition, which refers to God’s manifest presence dwelling among His people. Just as ἐπισκιάζω describes the Holy Spirit overshadowing Mary in the New Testament, the “Shekinah” represents God’s glory and presence dwelling among the Israelites in the Old Testament. This continuity between the Testaments highlights the ongoing narrative of God’s intimate involvement with His creation.