### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek noun G1923 (epigraphḗ) is derived from the verb G1924 (epigraphō), which means "to write upon," "to inscribe." Consequently, epigraphḗ denotes "an inscription," "a writing upon," or "a superscription." It refers specifically to something written *on* a surface, often serving to identify, declare, or mark an object or person. The core semantic range is thus confined to a literal written mark or legend.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
G1923 appears five times in the New Testament, each instance carrying significant contextual weight:
* **The Tribute Coin (Matthew 22:20; Mark 12:16; Luke 20:24):** In the Synoptic Gospels, epigraphḗ is used to describe the "inscription" on the Roman denarius presented to Jesus. When asked about the legality of paying taxes to Caesar, Jesus requests to see the coin and inquires, "Whose image and epigraphḗ is this?" [[Matthew 22:20]]. The inscription would have identified the emperor (Tiberius) and his titles, signifying his authority and ownership. Jesus' subsequent teaching, "Render to Caesar the things that are Caesar's, and to God the things that are God's," [[Matthew 22:21]] draws a profound distinction between earthly and divine allegiance, using the inscription as a tangible point of reference for earthly dominion.
* **The Inscription on the Cross (Luke 23:38):** Luke records that "an epigraphḗ also was written over Him in letters of Greek, Latin, and Hebrew: THIS IS THE KING OF THE JEWS." [[Luke 23:38]]. This was the *titulus crucis*, the customary legal charge written above the head of a crucified person. Pilate intended it as a statement of Jesus' supposed crime and perhaps as a mockery of Jewish aspirations. However, this inscription, ironically, proclaimed Jesus' true identity and messianic claim for all to see, in the three dominant languages of the day, testifying to His kingship even in humiliation.
* **The Athenian Altar (Acts 17:23):** In his sermon on Mars Hill, Paul strategically references an altar he observed in Athens, noting its epigraphḗ: "TO AN UNKNOWN GOD." [[Acts 17:23]]. Paul seizes upon this inscription as a point of common ground with his pagan audience, using their own religious practice to introduce the true God whom they worshipped ignorantly. The inscription here signifies a human attempt at piety and reverence, albeit misdirected, providing Paul with an open door to proclaim the Creator God who is not confined to temples or human hands.
### Related Words & Concepts
The most directly related word is the verb G1924 (epigraphō), from which G1923 is derived, meaning "to write upon" or "to inscribe." More broadly, G1125 (graphō), "to write," and G1124 (gramma), "a letter" or "writing," are related terms that speak to the act and product of writing. Conceptually, epigraphḗ is linked to ideas of authority (whose image/inscription?), identity (the King of the Jews), and revelation (an unknown god). It often functions as a public declaration or a defining mark.
### Theological Significance
The occurrences of epigraphḗ carry significant theological weight:
* **Authority and Ownership:** The inscription on the coin in the Synoptics underscores the tension between human authority (Caesar's domain) and divine authority (God's ultimate claim). Jesus' teaching implies that while earthly powers have their due, the "image and inscription" of humanity ultimately belong to God, who created us in His image. This challenges believers to discern their ultimate allegiance and to live as those "inscribed" with God's likeness.
* **Messianic Proclamation in Suffering:** The inscription on the cross is a profound theological statement. Intended as a legal accusation and a public humiliation, it paradoxically declares Jesus' true identity as "The King of the Jews." This epigraphḗ serves as an unintentional, yet powerful, testament to His unique claim and the nature of His kingdom, which is established through suffering and sacrifice rather than earthly power. It highlights the divine irony in human affairs.
* **Divine Revelation and Human Ignorance:** Paul's use of the Athenian altar's inscription demonstrates God's patient engagement with humanity, even in its ignorance or idolatry. The "unknown god" inscription provides a bridge for Paul to reveal the one true God, who is not distant or unknowable but actively seeking to be known. It illustrates the missionary imperative to meet people where they are, using their own cultural and religious markers as starting points for gospel proclamation.
### Summary
The Greek word G1923 (epigraphḗ) denotes an "inscription" or "superscription"—a writing upon a surface. Though appearing only five times in the New Testament, its usage is highly significant. It features prominently in three key contexts: the Roman coin, symbolizing earthly authority and prompting Jesus' teaching on rendering to Caesar and God; the inscription above Jesus on the cross, which ironically proclaimed His true kingship amidst His crucifixion; and the Athenian altar "to an unknown god," which Paul used as a springboard for revealing the true God. Theologically, epigraphḗ illuminates themes of divine and human authority, the paradoxical nature of Christ's kingship, and God's initiative in revealing Himself to humanity, even in its ignorance. It consistently functions as a public declaration or identifying mark, often with profound spiritual implications.
TRV