### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek verb ἐπιλύω (epilýō, `{{G1956}}`) is a compound word derived from the preposition ἐπί (epí), meaning "upon," "over," or "in addition to," and the verb λύω (lýō, `{{G3089}}`), which signifies "to loose," "to untie," "to release," or "to solve." Etymologically, ἐπιλύω therefore suggests "to loose upon," "to untie thoroughly," or "to solve completely."
In its semantic range, ἐπιπιλύω moves from a more literal sense of untying or loosening to a figurative application that implies resolving a complex situation or explaining a difficult matter. Its core meaning encapsulates the act of bringing clarity and resolution to something that is obscure, entangled, or disputed. This can manifest as:
1. **To explain or expound:** To untangle the meaning of something, making it clear and understandable. This involves a thorough elucidation.
2. **To decide or determine:** To resolve a matter, often a dispute or a question, by making a clear and definitive judgment. This implies bringing an end to uncertainty or contention.
Both aspects involve the removal of ambiguity and the establishment of clarity.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The term ἐπιλύω (epilýō, `{{G1956}}`) appears only twice in the New Testament, each instance offering a distinct yet related contextual nuance:
1. **[[Mark 4:34]]**: "And without a parable spake he not unto them: and when they were alone, he expounded all things to his disciples."
* In this passage, ἐπιλύω describes Jesus' private ministry to His disciples. While He spoke to the crowds in parables, thereby veiled in their meaning for those outside, He *expounded* (ἐπιλύω) these same parables to His inner circle. The context here emphasizes the interpretive aspect of the word. Jesus was not merely repeating the parables, but actively "untying" their deeper spiritual significance, making clear what was previously obscure. This highlights His role as the authoritative interpreter of divine truth, providing understanding to those prepared to receive it. The action implies a thorough and complete revelation of meaning.
2. **[[Acts 19:39]]**: "But if ye inquire any thing concerning other matters, it shall be determined in a lawful assembly."
* Here, the town clerk of Ephesus addresses the riotous crowd, seeking to restore order. He suggests that any further grievances or questions (τι περὶ ἑτέρων) should be *determined* (ἐπιλύω) in a proper, lawful assembly. In this context, ἐπιλύω takes on the meaning of "to decide" or "to resolve" a legal or civic dispute. It signifies the authoritative and definitive settlement of a matter through proper channels, bringing an end to contention and establishing a clear course of action. This usage underscores the word's capacity to denote the resolution of practical, contentious issues.
In both occurrences, the underlying sense of bringing clarity and resolution to a complex or unclear situation remains paramount, whether it be the meaning of a spiritual truth or the resolution of a civic dispute.
### Related Words & Concepts
The semantic field surrounding ἐπιλύω (epilýō, `{{G1956}}`) includes words and concepts related to explanation, interpretation, and decision-making:
* **λύω (lýō, `{{G3089}}`)**: The base verb, meaning "to loose," "untie," or "solve." ἐπιλύω intensifies or specifies this action, implying a more complete or decisive untying/solving.
* **ἑρμηνεύω (hermēneuō, `{{G2059}}`)**: To interpret, translate, or explain, often in the context of language or meaning. While similar, ἐπιλύω carries a stronger sense of resolving ambiguity or difficulty.
* **σαφηνίζω (saphēnizō, `{{G4585}}`)**: To make clear or explain.
* **διασαφέω (diasapheō, `{{G1280}}`)**: To explain fully or make perfectly clear.
* **κρίνω (krinō, `{{G2919}}`)**: To judge, decide, or determine. This is particularly relevant to the usage in [[Acts 19:39]], where a decision is made to resolve a matter.
* **ἀναλύω (analýō, `{{G359}}`)**: To unloose, depart. While sharing the λύω root, ἀναλύω typically refers to a physical departure or dissolution, whereas ἐπιλύω focuses on conceptual or relational resolution.
Concepts associated with ἐπιλύω include: clarity, understanding, resolution, interpretation, authoritative decision, and the removal of obscurity or contention.
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of ἐπιλύω (epilýō, `{{G1956}}`) lies primarily in its application to the person and work of Jesus Christ, as well as the broader implications for order and understanding within the Christian community.
In [[Mark 4:34]], Jesus' act of *expounding* (ἐπιλύω) the parables to His disciples is profoundly significant. It underscores:
* **Divine Revelation:** Jesus is not merely a teacher, but the ultimate revealer and interpreter of divine truth. He possesses the authority and insight to "untie" the mysteries of the kingdom of God, making them accessible to those chosen to receive deeper understanding.
* **Discipleship and Illumination:** True spiritual understanding is not always immediately apparent; it often requires divine illumination. Jesus' ἐπιλύω signifies the necessary work of the Spirit, through Christ, to open the minds and hearts of believers to grasp spiritual realities that remain veiled to others. This highlights the intimate nature of discipleship and the privilege of divine insight.
* **The Nature of Truth:** Truth, especially divine truth, can be presented in ways that require a deeper "untying" or explanation. This challenges a superficial engagement with God's word, emphasizing the need for diligent study and reliance on divine teaching.
In [[Acts 19:39]], while not directly theological in the same revelatory sense, the use of ἐπιλύω for resolving civic disputes reflects a broader biblical principle of order, justice, and the peaceful resolution of conflict within human society. God is a God of order, and His desire for humanity includes the establishment of just and clear processes for governing affairs, preventing chaos and ensuring fairness. This indirectly points to the divine attribute of wisdom that provides solutions and clarity in complex situations.
Collectively, ἐπιλύω speaks to the divine capacity and human need for clarity and resolution, whether concerning spiritual mysteries or practical matters of life and governance. It emphasizes the movement from ambiguity or entanglement to understanding and definitive action, often facilitated by authoritative insight.
### Summary
The Greek verb ἐπιλύω (epilýō, `{{G1956}}`) fundamentally signifies the act of thoroughly "untying," "solving," or "explaining" a complex or obscure matter. Its two New Testament occurrences beautifully illustrate its semantic range:
1. In [[Mark 4:34]], it describes Jesus' authoritative act of *expounding* the parables to His disciples, revealing their deeper spiritual meaning and moving from veiled truth to clear understanding. This highlights His role as the ultimate interpreter of divine revelation.
2. In [[Acts 19:39]], it refers to the *determination* or resolution of a dispute in a lawful assembly, emphasizing the bringing of clarity and a definitive decision to a contentious issue.
Thus, ἐπιλύω encapsulates the movement from ambiguity and complexity to clarity and resolution, whether through divine illumination of truth or through orderly human deliberation and decision-making. It underscores the importance of understanding, interpretation, and the definitive settlement of matters for both spiritual growth and societal order.
TRV