from ἐπί and the base of ἄγγελος; to announce upon (reflexively), i.e. (by implication) to engage to do something, to assert something respecting oneself:--profess, (make) promise.
### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **epangéllō**, represented by `{{G1861}}`, means to **promise** or **profess**. It appears **15 times** in **15 unique verses**. The term is derived from roots meaning "to announce upon," and it carries the sense of engaging to do something or asserting something about oneself. It is used to describe both divine commitments and human declarations.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In Scripture, `{{G1861}}` is frequently used to describe the foundational promises of God. God **promised** eternal life before the world began [[Titus 1:2]], and He **promised** a kingdom to those who love Him [[James 2:5]]. This divine promise is portrayed as certain, as seen in the case of Abraham, who was "fully persuaded that, what he had **promised**, he was able also to perform" [[Romans 4:21]]. The word is also used in the context of human action. For instance, some may **promise** others liberty while they themselves are servants of corruption [[2 Peter 2:19]], and some who are **professing** faith can err from it [[1 Timothy 6:21]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the meaning and application of **epangéllō**:
* `{{G1860}}` **epangelía** (message, promise): This noun is a direct counterpart to the verb `{{G1861}}`, referring to the substance of what is promised, often a "divine assurance of good." It is this **promise** of eternal life that Christ has **promised** us [[1 John 2:25]].
* `{{G4103}}` **pistós** (faithful, true): This word is crucial for understanding the reliability of a promise. The one who makes a promise must be trustworthy, as stated in [[Hebrews 10:23]]: "he is **faithful** that **promised**."
* `{{G2983}}` **lambánō** (to take, receive): This word describes the fulfillment of a promise from the recipient's perspective. Those who endure temptation will **receive** the crown of life which the Lord has **promised** [[James 1:12]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G1861}}` is significant, establishing key concepts about God and humanity.
* **Divine Faithfulness:** The act of God **promising** underscores His unchanging and reliable character. He is described as "faithful that **promised**" [[Hebrews 10:23]] and as the God "that cannot lie" who **promised** eternal life [[Titus 1:2]].
* **Basis of Hope:** God's promises are the foundation of Christian **hope** `{{G1680}}`. Believers anchor their expectation of eternal life in the fact that God **promised** it [[Titus 1:2]].
* **Human Responsibility:** The term also defines a human's public declaration or profession. This carries a weight of responsibility, whether it is women **professing** godliness through good works [[1 Timothy 2:10]] or those who have erred from the faith they were **professing** [[1 Timothy 6:21]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G1861}}` conveys more than a simple pledge. It is a term that defines the very nature of God's relationship with His people through His unbreakable promises. It simultaneously outlines the human act of profession, highlighting the integrity required to align one's life with one's stated beliefs. The word thus serves as a cornerstone for understanding divine assurance and human accountability.
TRV