### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **epíkeimai**, represented by `{{G1945}}`, means to **rest upon**, either literally or figuratively. It is formed from the words `{{G1909}}` **epí** (upon) and `{{G2749}}` **keîmai** (to lie). Occurring **7 times** in **7 unique verses**, its usage ranges from describing a physical object being laid on something to a figurative pressure or obligation being imposed.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In its literal sense, `{{G1945}}` is used to describe a stone that **lay** upon Jesus' grave [[John 11:38]] and fish **laid** upon a fire of coals [[John 21:9]]. The word also depicts a more intense physical pressure, as when a crowd **pressed upon** Jesus to hear the word of God [[Luke 5:1]] or when a tempest **lay on** a ship [[Acts 27:20]]. Figuratively, it is used to describe the urgency of a crowd that was **instant** with loud voices, demanding that Jesus be crucified [[Luke 23:23]]. It also conveys the weight of an obligation, as when Paul states that "necessity **is laid upon** me" to preach the gospel [[1 Corinthians 9:16]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the meaning of `{{G1945}}`:
* `{{G1909}}` **epí** (upon): This is a primary preposition meaning superimposition, or to be over or upon something. It is a foundational component of `{{G1945}}` and is used to describe the Holy Ghost coming **upon** believers [[Acts 1:8]].
* `{{G2749}}` **keîmai** (to lie outstretched): This word forms the other half of `{{G1945}}` and refers to the state of lying down or being set in place. It is used to describe the foundation of Jesus Christ which **is laid** [[1 Corinthians 3:11]].
* `{{G318}}` **anánkē** (necessity): This term, meaning constraint or distress, is the abstract concept that **is laid upon** Paul, compelling him to preach the gospel [[1 Corinthians 9:16]].
### Theological Significance
The word `{{G1945}}` carries significant conceptual weight in its various applications:
* **Imposition of Law:** It describes the "carnal ordinances" of the Old Covenant, which were **imposed** on the people until the "time of reformation" [[Hebrews 9:10]]. This highlights the external and burdensome nature of the regulations.
* **Divine Compulsion:** Paul uses the word to express the profound sense of duty he feels. For him, preaching the gospel is not a choice but a "necessity **is laid upon** me" [[1 Corinthians 9:16]], indicating a divine and inescapable calling.
* **Physical and Social Pressure:** The word captures the intensity of a situation, such as a relentless tempest that **lay on** a ship, leading to hopelessness [[Acts 27:20]], or a crowd that **pressed upon** Jesus with great desire [[Luke 5:1]].
* **Urgent Demand:** It is used to describe the forceful insistence of the crowd and chief priests who were **instant** in their demand for Jesus' crucifixion, showing a pressure that ultimately prevailed [[Luke 23:23]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G1945}}` **epíkeimai** is a versatile word that conveys the idea of something resting upon an object or person with weight and consequence. Whether it is a literal stone on a tomb, a crowd pressing in, a tempest bearing down, or the abstract burden of religious law or divine necessity, the word consistently implies a significant and unavoidable pressure. It effectively communicates states of obligation, urgency, and being subjected to an external force.
TRV