### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek verb G1948 (epikrínō) is a compound word formed from the preposition ἐπί (epí), meaning "upon," "over," or "in addition to," and the verb κρίνω (krínō), meaning "to judge," "to decide," or "to separate." The prefix ἐπί in this context intensifies or specifies the act of judging, indicating a definitive, official, or authoritative pronouncement. Thus, epikrínō carries the core meaning of "to adjudge," "to give sentence," or "to pass judgment officially." It implies a formal decision rendered by one in a position of authority, often in a legal or judicial setting. The emphasis is on the conclusive nature of the judgment, a verdict handed down.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The verb G1948 (epikrínō) appears only once in the New Testament, in the Gospel of Luke:
* **[[Luke 23:24]]**: "And Pilate gave sentence that it should be as they required."
The context is crucial. Pontius Pilate, the Roman governor, is faced with the clamoring crowd demanding Jesus' crucifixion. Despite having declared Jesus innocent three times ([[Luke 23:4]], [[Luke 23:14-15]], [[Luke 23:22]]), and finding no basis for the charges brought against Him, Pilate ultimately capitulates to the will of the Jewish leaders and the populace. The phrase "gave sentence" (ἐπεκρίνατο) here signifies Pilate's official judicial pronouncement, the authoritative verdict that sealed Jesus' fate. It underscores the legal, albeit unjust, process by which the innocent Son of God was condemned. The use of this specific term highlights the gravity and finality of Pilate's decision as the presiding Roman authority.
### Related Words & Concepts
The primary related word is the base verb κρίνω (krínō) `{{G2919}}`, which is foundational to understanding epikrínō. κρίνω encompasses a broad semantic range including "to judge," "to decide," "to discern," "to condemn," or "to separate." epikrínō specifies this general act of judging into the realm of official sentencing. Other related terms stemming from κρίνω include:
* κρίμα (kríma) `{{G2917}}`: "judgment," "decision," "condemnation," or "punishment."
* κρίσις (krísis) `{{G2920}}`: "judgment," "crisis," "decision," or "condemnation," often referring to the process or event of judgment.
* κριτής (kritēs) `{{G2923}}`: "judge," the one who exercises judgment.
The concept of epikrínō is also related to broader biblical themes of justice and law, both human and divine. It stands in contrast to divine judgment, which is always righteous and true, by illustrating human judgment which can be swayed by fear, expediency, or popular pressure, as exemplified by Pilate's action.
### Theological Significance
The singular occurrence of G1948 (epikrínō) in [[Luke 23:24]] carries profound theological weight. Pilate's "giving sentence" for Jesus' crucifixion is a pivotal moment in the Passion narrative, marking the official condemnation of the innocent Christ by human authority.
1. **Human Authority and Divine Will:** This verse demonstrates the exercise of human legal authority in a way that, while unjust, paradoxically fulfills the divine plan of salvation. Pilate's sentence, though motivated by political expediency, served as the human catalyst for the crucifixion, which was God's ordained means of redemption. It highlights the tension between human responsibility and divine sovereignty.
2. **The Injustice of the Cross:** The word underscores the profound injustice of Jesus' trial. An innocent man was officially condemned, not because of any demonstrable guilt, but due to the manipulative pressure of the crowd and the weakness of the judge. This injustice is central to understanding the vicarious nature of Christ's suffering.
3. **The Weight of Decision:** Pilate's act of "giving sentence" reveals the immense responsibility and moral burden of those in authority. His decision, made under duress, led to the execution of the Son of God, a decision with eternal consequences. It serves as a somber reminder of the potential for human judgment to err grievously.
### Summary
The Greek word G1948 (epikrínō) precisely conveys the act of "giving official sentence" or "adjudging." Its sole appearance in the New Testament, in [[Luke 23:24]], is highly significant, describing Pontius Pilate's authoritative, yet unjust, pronouncement that led to Jesus' crucifixion. This single usage powerfully encapsulates the legal finality of a human verdict, even when that verdict is morally corrupt. The word highlights the tragic intersection of human authority, political expediency, and divine purpose in the pivotal event of Christ's condemnation, underscoring the profound injustice of the Cross while simultaneously pointing to its ultimate fulfillment of God's redemptive plan.
TRV