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Introduction
Understanding Greek words is crucial in biblical studies for grasping the depth and nuances in Scripture. The Greek word ἐπαγγελία (epangelia), meaning “promise,” is particularly significant because it captures one of the core concepts in both Old and New Testament theology. From God’s promises to the patriarchs to the promises fulfilled in Christ, epangelia connects the divine will to human hope and faith, offering profound insights into the ancient world’s understanding of divine assurance and covenant.
Key Information
- The Greek Word: ἐπαγγελία (epangelia) [e-paŋ-ge-LEE-a]
- Etymology: Derived from the verb ἐπαγγέλλω (epangellō), which means “to announce” or “to proclaim.” The prefix ἐπὶ (epi) means “upon” or “on,” and ἀγγέλλω (angellō) means “to announce” or “to declare,” indicating a formal proclamation or promise made with authority.
- Part of Speech: Noun; feminine; first declension.
- The F.O.G Word Choice: Coming Soon.
Primary Meanings
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- Promise: A solemn pledge or assurance, often made by God to humanity, that certain things will come to pass.
- Assurance: A confident declaration that something will happen, reflecting a sense of guarantee or certainty.
Similar Words:
Epangelia is closely related to the Greek word ὑπόσχεσις (hyposchesis) [hu-PO-ske-sis], which also means “promise” but often conveys the idea of a vow or obligation. While epangelia emphasizes the proclamation aspect, hyposchesis suggests a personal commitment or pledge. Another related term is ἐλπίς (elpis) [el-PEES], meaning “hope,” which denotes the expectation or anticipation that the promise will be fulfilled.
Further Insights:
The noun ἐπαγγελία (epangelia) follows the first declension pattern in Greek. It is frequently used in the New Testament to denote God’s promises, especially those related to the coming Messiah and the inheritance of the Kingdom. This word often carries a future-oriented nuance, emphasizing the certainty of God’s commitments.
| Case | Singular | Plural |
|---|---|---|
| Nominative | ἐπαγγελία | ἐπαγγελίαι |
| Genitive | ἐπαγγελίας | ἐπαγγελιῶν |
| Dative | ἐπαγγελίᾳ | ἐπαγγελίαις |
| Accusative | ἐπαγγελίαν | ἐπαγγελίας |
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Lexicon Insights
BDAG: Defines ἐπαγγελία (epangelia) as a “promise” or “pledge,” especially those made by God to His people. It emphasizes the divine initiative and reliability in fulfilling what has been promised, citing numerous New Testament passages where this term highlights the faithfulness of God’s word.
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Thayers: Notes that ἐπαγγελία (epangelia) refers to “a promise,” particularly of blessings. Thayer elaborates that the term is often used for divine promises given through Christ and His apostles, noting that it is integral to understanding salvation history.
Vines: Explains ἐπαγγελία (epangelia) as “a promise,” contrasting it with human promises, which may not always be fulfilled. Vines highlights the word’s role in expressing the certainty and assurance of God’s commitments, particularly in relation to the covenant.
LSJ: In classical Greek usage, ἐπαγγελία (epangelia) broadly means “announcement” or “declaration.” The lexicon indicates that the term could refer to any formal pledge or assurance, both in legal and religious contexts.
Strong’s Exhaustive Concordance: Lists ἐπαγγελία (epangelia) as a noun meaning “promise,” stressing its use in the New Testament to refer to God’s promises to His people. It emphasizes the reliability and hope inherent in divine proclamations.
Related Scripture References
- Acts 2:39: “For the promise (ἐπαγγελία) is for you and your children and for all who are far off, as many as the Lord our God will call to Himself.”
- Romans 4:13: “For the promise (ἐπαγγελία) to Abraham or to his descendants that he would be heir of the world was not through the Law, but through the righteousness of faith.”
- Galatians 3:14: “In order that in Christ Jesus the blessing of Abraham might come to the Gentiles, so that we would receive the promise (ἐπαγγελία) of the Spirit through faith.”
- Hebrews 6:15: “And so, having patiently waited, he obtained the promise (ἐπαγγελίαν).”
- 2 Peter 3:9: “The Lord is not slow about His promise (ἐπαγγελίας), as some count slowness, but is patient toward you, not wishing for any to perish but for all to come to repentance.”
Classical Usage
| Author | Name of Work | English Text |
|---|---|---|
| Plato | Republic | “He gave a solemn promise (ἐπαγγελία) to his people.” |
| Xenophon | Anabasis | “They marched with the promise (ἐπαγγελία) of receiving supplies.” |
| Josephus | Antiquities of the Jews | “God’s promise (ἐπαγγελία) to Abraham was unwavering and sure.” |
Summary of ἐπαγγελία (G1860: epangelia)
The Greek word ἐπαγγελία (epangelia), meaning “promise,” is a foundational term in biblical theology, emphasizing the certainty of God’s assurances and commitments. It highlights how God’s promises are both a source of hope and a call to faithfulness for believers. The usage of epangelia in both the Old and New Testaments, as well as in classical literature, reflects its significance in expressing trust, expectation, and divine reliability.
Did You Know?
The word ἐπαγγελία (epangelia) is not only central to biblical theology but also finds its way into modern language. The English word “evangelical” shares its roots with epangelia, reflecting the proclamation of good news and the emphasis on God’s promises being fulfilled through Jesus Christ.
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