### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek noun ἐπίγνωσις (epígnōsis, `{{G1922}}`) is derived from the verb ἐπιγινώσκω (epiginōskō, "to know fully, to acknowledge, to recognize"). The prefix ἐπί- (epi-) often intensifies the root verb γινώσκω (ginōskō, "to know"), indicating a knowledge that is more profound, precise, or complete than simple γνῶσις (gnōsis, `{{G1108}}`). Thus, epígnōsis signifies a "full knowledge," "accurate knowledge," "precise knowledge," or "recognition." It implies more than intellectual assent; it suggests an experiential, personal, and transformative apprehension of truth, leading to acknowledgment, discernment, and often, a corresponding change in behavior or conviction. It can refer to the recognition of a person, the full discernment of a truth, or the acknowledgment of a fact or reality.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
Epígnōsis appears 20 times in the New Testament, predominantly in the Pauline epistles and 2 Peter. Its usage consistently points to a deep, transformative knowledge:
* **Knowledge of God and Christ:** Frequently, epígnōsis refers to a salvific and intimate knowledge of God and Jesus Christ. In [[Ephesians 1:17]], Paul prays for a "spirit of wisdom and revelation in the knowledge of Him." Similarly, [[Colossians 1:10]] speaks of "increasing in the knowledge of God," implying a progressive, deepening relationship. [[2 Peter 1:2-3]] links "grace and peace" and "all things that pertain to life and godliness" to the "knowledge of God and of Jesus our Lord," indicating that this knowledge is the conduit for divine blessings and power.
* **Knowledge of Truth:** The term is often associated with "truth" (ἀλήθεια, `{{G225}}`). [[1 Timothy 2:4]] expresses God's desire for "all men to be saved and to come to the knowledge of the truth," highlighting its necessity for salvation. Conversely, [[2 Timothy 3:7]] describes those "always learning and never able to come to the knowledge of the truth," pointing to a superficial pursuit of knowledge that lacks genuine spiritual apprehension. [[Titus 1:1]] connects "faith of God's elect" with "the acknowledgment of the truth which accords with godliness."
* **Knowledge of God's Will and Discernment:** In [[Colossians 1:9]], Paul prays for believers to be "filled with the knowledge of His will in all wisdom and spiritual understanding," showing that epígnōsis enables discernment and understanding of divine purposes. [[Philippians 1:9]] similarly links love abounding "in knowledge and all discernment," suggesting that epígnōsis fosters ethical and spiritual insight.
* **Practical Application and Fruitfulness:** This deep knowledge is not merely theoretical but leads to practical godliness. [[Colossians 1:10]] states that increasing in the knowledge of God leads to "walking worthy of the Lord, fully pleasing Him, being fruitful in every good work." [[2 Peter 1:8]] affirms that if spiritual qualities abound, believers "will be neither barren nor unfruitful in the knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ."
### Related Words & Concepts
* **γνῶσις (gnōsis, `{{G1108}}`):** General knowledge or intellectual understanding. Epígnōsis is distinct from gnōsis in that it implies a more complete, personal, and transformative knowledge. While gnōsis can be superficial or merely intellectual, epígnōsis suggests a knowledge that has been fully apprehended and assimilated, often leading to acknowledgment or recognition.
* **σοφία (sophia, `{{G4678}}`):** Wisdom, the practical application of knowledge. Epígnōsis provides the deep understanding necessary for true sophia.
* **σύνεσις (synesis, `{{G4907}}`):** Understanding or discernment. Often paired with epígnōsis (e.g., [[Colossians 1:9]]), indicating that deep knowledge leads to profound insight and discernment.
* **ἀλήθεια (alētheia, `{{G225}}`):** Truth. Epígnōsis is frequently described as the "knowledge of the truth," emphasizing its objective content and transformative power.
* **ἀποκάλυψις (apokalypsis, `{{G602}}`):** Revelation. Epígnōsis is the experiential apprehension and acknowledgment of what has been divinely revealed.
* **πίστις (pistis, `{{G4102}}`):** Faith. Epígnōsis deepens and solidifies faith, moving beyond mere belief to a full recognition of God's reality and truth.
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of epígnōsis is profound and multifaceted. It underscores the New Testament emphasis on a personal, transformative relationship with God, rather than a mere intellectual assent to doctrines.
* **Foundation for Salvation and Sanctification:** Epígnōsis is presented as essential for both initial salvation (coming to the knowledge of the truth, [[1 Timothy 2:4]]) and ongoing spiritual growth and sanctification ([[2 Peter 1:2-3]]). It is the means by which believers appropriate divine grace and power for living a godly life.
* **Intimate Relationship with God:** This "full knowledge" fosters an intimate and personal relationship with God and Christ. It moves beyond knowing *about* God to truly knowing Him, leading to a life lived in accordance with His will ([[Colossians 1:9-10]]).
* **Spiritual Maturity and Discernment:** Epígnōsis is crucial for spiritual maturity, enabling believers to discern God's will, distinguish truth from error, and live wisely in a fallen world. It equips them to bear spiritual fruit and walk worthy of their calling.
* **Contrast to Superficiality:** The negative usage in [[2 Timothy 3:7]] serves as a stark warning against a superficial pursuit of religious knowledge that never penetrates to the heart, highlighting the necessity of genuine, transformative epígnōsis. It implies that true knowledge is not merely accumulated facts but a life-changing encounter with truth.
### Summary
Epígnōsis ({{G1922}}`) denotes a full, precise, and experiential knowledge or acknowledgment, transcending mere intellectual acquaintance. It signifies a deep, transformative apprehension of truth, particularly concerning God, His will, and the person of Christ. This profound knowledge is vital for salvation, spiritual growth, godly living, and effective discernment, serving as a foundational element for a robust and fruitful relationship with the divine. It is presented in the New Testament as both a gift to be received and a pursuit to be diligently sought by believers, leading to a life of increasing grace, peace, and spiritual fruitfulness.
TRV