### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek adverb **epimelōs**, represented by `{{G1960}}`, is defined as to act **carefully** or **diligently**. This specific term is found only **1 time** in the entire Bible, appearing in **1 unique verse**. Its rarity makes its single application particularly noteworthy.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The only use of `{{G1960}}` occurs in Luke's Gospel, within the parable of the lost coin. In this story, a woman with ten pieces of silver loses one. Her response is not one of passive acceptance but of active and focused effort. The scripture states that she lights a candle, sweeps the house, and proceeds to **seek diligently** until she finds the lost piece [[Luke 15:8]]. The word **epimelōs** here qualifies the nature of her search, emphasizing its thorough and painstaking character.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words found in the same context help to illuminate the meaning of a diligent search:
* `{{G2212}}` **zētéō**: Meaning **to seek**, this is the action being performed diligently. This verb is used in commands for believers to **seek** the kingdom of God [[Matthew 6:33]] and is central to Jesus's statement that the Son of man came "to **seek** and to save that which was lost" [[Luke 19:10]].
* `{{G4563}}` **saróō**: Defined as **to sweep**, this word describes a specific, methodical action taken by the woman to find her coin [[Luke 15:8]]. It is also used in the context of a house being found **swept** and garnished [[Matthew 12:44]].
* `{{G681}}` **háptō**: This word means **to set on fire** and is used here in the sense of to **light** a candle [[Luke 15:8]]. This is the preparatory step taken to ensure the search can be effective, enabling the woman to see into the dark corners of her house.
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G1960}}` is derived entirely from its context in the parable. It illustrates the nature of God's pursuit of the lost.
* **The Value of the Lost:** The woman's careful and diligent search for a single coin demonstrates the immense value she places upon it. This mirrors the divine value placed on each lost individual.
* **The Character of God's Search:** By describing the search as diligent, the parable provides a model for understanding God's own redemptive mission. Jesus came "to seek" the lost [[Luke 19:10]], and `{{G1960}}` suggests this seeking is not casual but purposeful and exhaustive.
* **A Model for Believers:** The command for believers to "seek" ([[Matthew 7:7]], [[Luke 11:9]]) is given greater depth by this example. The search for God and His kingdom is meant to be a diligent, careful, and active pursuit, just as the woman sought her lost coin.
### Summary
In summary, while `{{G1960}}` is used only once, its placement is highly significant. It modifies the verb "to seek" in a parable that directly illustrates the heart of God for the lost. The word **epimelōs** transforms a simple search into a powerful metaphor for divine redemption and a clear example of the focused spiritual pursuit required of believers. It demonstrates how a single adverb can convey a profound theological truth about the careful and tireless nature of God's love.
TRV