### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **epíblēma**, represented by `{{G1915}}`, means **a patch** or **piece**. It is derived from the verb `{{G1911}}` epibállō, which means "to throw upon" or "lay on". It appears 4 times across 3 unique verses in the Bible, consistently used as a key element in a single parable.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{G1915}}` is used exclusively in a parable spoken by Jesus to illustrate the incompatibility between the new and the old [[Luke 5:36]]. He explains that no one puts a **piece** of new cloth onto an old garment. Doing so would cause the new **piece** to pull away from the old fabric, making the tear worse ([[Matthew 9:16]], [[Mark 2:21]]). In Luke's account, the new **piece** not only creates a rent but also does not agree with the old garment [[Luke 5:36]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words clarify the context of `{{G1915}}`:
* `{{G1911}}` **epibállō** (to throw upon, lay on): As the root verb, it describes the action of putting the **piece** onto the garment ([[Matthew 9:16]], [[Luke 5:36]]).
* `{{G4978}}` **schísma** (a split, rent): This word signifies the negative result of applying the new patch, as the "rent is made worse" ([[Matthew 9:16]], [[Mark 2:21]]).
* `{{G3820}}` **palaiós** (old, worn out): This describes the state of the garment that receives the patch, highlighting the fundamental contrast at the heart of the parable ([[Matthew 9:16]], [[Mark 2:21]], [[Luke 5:36]]).
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G1915}}` is derived entirely from its use in Jesus' parable.
* **Principle of Incompatibility:** The **piece** serves as a metaphor in a parable `{{G3850}}` that demonstrates a core principle: new realities cannot simply be "patched" onto old structures. The new **piece** from a new garment does not agree `{{G4856}}` with the old [[Luke 5:36]].
* **Warning Against Syncretism:** The attempt to combine the new **piece** with the old garment results in a worse `{{G5501}}` state, creating a greater `{{G4978}}` rent ([[Matthew 9:16]], [[Mark 2:21]]). This illustrates that mixing incompatible systems leads to damage rather than improvement.
* **The Necessity of the New:** The parable contrasts the new `{{G46}}` cloth or `{{G2537}}` garment with the old `{{G3820}}` one. The failure of the **piece** `{{G1915}}` to mend the old garment implies that a complete replacement is necessary, not just a superficial repair.
### Summary
In summary, `{{G1915}}` is a specific term for **a patch** used exclusively by Jesus in a powerful parable. While it literally refers to a piece of cloth, its significance lies in its metaphorical role illustrating the fundamental incompatibility between the new and the old. The failure of the **piece** to properly mend the old garment serves as a timeless illustration that some changes require a complete renewal, not just a simple fix, as attempting to do so will only make the original problem worse.
TRV