### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **ἐπιβαρέω (epibaréō)**, represented by `{{G1912}}`, is defined as being **heavy upon**, which can mean being pecuniarily expensive or, figuratively, being severe towards someone. Its translations include "be chargeable to" and "overcharge." The term appears **6 times** across **3 unique verses** in the Bible, indicating a very specific application.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In its biblical usage, `{{G1912}}` primarily addresses the theme of apostolic self-sufficiency. Paul explicitly states that he and his companions worked with their own hands "night and day" to avoid being **chargeable** to the believers in Thessalonica, thereby not creating a financial burden while preaching the gospel ([[1 Thessalonians 2:9]], [[2 Thessalonians 3:8]]). The word also carries a figurative weight, as seen in [[2 Corinthians 2:5]], where Paul explains his desire not to **overcharge** the congregation with excessive grief or disciplinary severity, demonstrating a concern for their emotional and spiritual well-being.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related Greek words help clarify the context in which `{{G1912}}` is used:
* `{{G2873}}` **kópos** (a cut, i.e. (by analogy) toil (as reducing the strength), literally or figuratively; by implication, pains:--labour, + trouble, weariness.): This word for "labour" is used directly alongside `{{G1912}}` to describe the exhaustive effort Paul undertook to avoid being chargeable [[1 Thessalonians 2:9]].
* `{{G3449}}` **móchthos** (from the base of μόγις; toil, i.e. (by implication) sadness:--painfulness, travail.): Paired with both `{{G1912}}` and `{{G2873}}`, this term emphasizes the painful "travail" involved in the apostles' work to support themselves [[2 Thessalonians 3:8]].
* `{{G2038}}` **ergázomai** (middle voice from ἔργον; to toil (as a task, occupation, etc.), (by implication) effect, be engaged in or with, etc.:--commit, do, labor for, minister about, trade (by), work.): This general term for "work" describes the very action of "labouring" that enabled Paul to avoid being a burden [[1 Thessalonians 2:9]].
* `{{G3076}}` **lypéō** (to distress; reflexively or passively, to be sad:--cause grief, grieve, be in heaviness, (be) sorrow(-ful), be (make) sorry.): This word is central to the context of [[2 Corinthians 2:5]], where Paul’s aim not to "overcharge" is directly related to not causing excessive "grief."
### Theological Significance
The conceptual significance of `{{G1912}}` lies in the principles of ministry and relationships it illustrates.
* **Financial Integrity:** The word strongly conveys a model for ministry that prioritizes the unhindered proclamation of the gospel by avoiding any financial dependency or burden on the congregation ([[1 Thessalonians 2:9]], [[2 Thessalonians 3:8]]).
* **Pastoral Care:** Figuratively, `{{G1912}}` highlights a leader's responsibility to be sensitive in discipline and correction, intentionally choosing not to "overcharge" or weigh down believers with undue severity or sorrow [[2 Corinthians 2:5]].
* **The Cost of Service:** By appearing with words for toil and travail, the term underscores that the apostles' commitment to not being a burden came at great personal cost, involving intense, wearisome labor.
### Summary
In summary, `{{G1912}}` provides a focused definition for being a "heavy" presence, both financially and relationally. It is a key term for understanding the apostle Paul’s work ethic and pastoral sensitivity. While used sparingly, it powerfully communicates a commitment to self-sacrifice for the sake of the gospel and a deep concern for the well-being of the church, ensuring that leaders were not a burden to those they served.
TRV