from a compound of ἐπί and a (prolonged) form of the base of κοράσιον (in the sense of servant); assistance:--help.
Transliteration:epikouría
Pronunciation:ep-ee-koo-ree'-ah
Detailed Word Study
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek term epikouría (`{{G1947}}`) is derived from a compound involving epí (upon, to) and a form related to korasion (in the sense of a servant or helper). Its fundamental meaning is "assistance," "help," "succor," or "aid." It denotes the act of providing active support or relief to someone who is in a state of distress, difficulty, or need. The emphasis lies on an intervention that brings about alleviation or enables endurance, rather than mere passive support. It implies a dynamic and effective offering of aid in a critical moment.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The word epikouría (`{{G1947}}`) appears only once in the New Testament, found in the book of Acts.
* **[[Acts 26:22]]**: In his defense before King Agrippa, the Apostle Paul declares, "Having therefore obtained help from God, I stand to this day testifying both to small and great, saying nothing but what the Prophets and Moses said would come to pass."
* **Contextual Analysis**: Paul is recounting his conversion and subsequent ministry, a path fraught with persecution and opposition. His statement, "obtained help from God" (βοηθείας τῆς ἐκ τοῦ Θεοῦ τυχών), is a profound declaration of divine intervention. The epikouría he received was not human assistance, but God's direct, powerful, and sustaining aid that enabled him to survive numerous threats, endure imprisonment, and continue proclaiming the Gospel. This "help" is presented as the singular reason for his continued existence and his ability to stand and testify despite immense pressure and danger. It underscores God's faithfulness in upholding His chosen instrument against all odds.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several Greek words share a semantic range with epikouría (`{{G1947}}`), emphasizing various aspects of aid and support:
* boētheia (`{{G996}}`): Often translated as "help" or "succor," it is a broader term for aid, frequently used in contexts of distress or danger.
* boēthos (`{{G998}}`): "Helper" or "assistant," referring to the one who provides aid.
* paraklētos (`{{G3875}}`): "Advocate," "Helper," or "Comforter," famously used for the Holy Spirit, highlighting His role in providing support, guidance, and intercession.
* symparistēmi (`{{G4847}}`): Meaning "to stand with" or "to assist," indicating a supportive presence.
The concept of epikouría also relates to broader biblical themes such as divine providence, God's sustaining power, His faithfulness to His covenants and promises, and the perseverance of believers through tribulation.
### Theological Significance
The singular, yet powerful, use of epikouría (`{{G1947}}`) in [[Acts 26:22]] carries significant theological weight. It serves as a testament to the sovereign and active involvement of God in the lives of His servants. Paul's declaration is not merely an expression of gratitude but a theological assertion that his survival and continued ministry were not due to his own resilience, human alliances, or favorable circumstances, but solely to God's direct and supernatural "help."
This highlights several key theological truths:
1. **God as the Ultimate Source of Help**: In times of extreme adversity, God is the ultimate and reliable source of aid, providing what no human power can.
2. **Divine Preservation**: God actively preserves and sustains those whom He has called and equipped for His purposes, enabling them to fulfill their mission despite formidable opposition.
3. **God's Faithfulness**: The epikouría demonstrates God's unwavering faithfulness to His promises and His commitment to His people, ensuring their perseverance even unto death.
4. **Reliance on God**: Paul's testimony encourages believers to place their trust and reliance not on their own strength or earthly resources, but on God's omnipotent and timely assistance when pursuing His will. It underscores the biblical theme of God as a refuge and a present help in trouble (cf. [[Psalm 46:1]]).
### Summary
Epikouría (`{{G1947}}`) denotes active "assistance" or "help," specifically aid provided in a time of need or distress. Its sole New Testament occurrence in [[Acts 26:22]] is pivotal, as the Apostle Paul attributes his very survival and ongoing ministry to the direct and powerful help received from God. This usage profoundly underscores God's active providence, His unwavering faithfulness, and His sustaining power in the lives of His servants. The word thus encapsulates the theological truth that God is the ultimate source of strength and preservation, enabling His people to persevere through trials and fulfill His divine calling.
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