### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek verb ἐπινεύω (epineúō, `{{G1962}}`) is a compound word derived from the preposition ἐπί (epí), meaning "upon," "to," or "in addition," and the verb νεύω (neúō), meaning "to nod" or "to incline the head." The literal meaning of ἐπινεύω is thus "to nod at" or "to nod towards." This physical action serves as a non-verbal signal of affirmation, agreement, or approval. Semantically, the word extends beyond the mere physical gesture to convey the concept of assent or consent. It implies a positive response, a granting of permission, or an indication of willingness, often communicated subtly rather than through explicit verbal declaration. It suggests a receptive posture or a quiet yielding to a request or proposition.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The verb ἐπινεύω (epineúō, `{{G1962}}`) is found only once in the New Testament:
* **[[Acts 18:20]]:** "When they desired him to stay a longer time with them, he did not consent [οὐκ ἐπένευσεν]."
In this passage, Paul is ministering in Corinth, having recently arrived from Athens. He is engaging with the Jewish community in the synagogue, "persuading both Jews and Greeks" regarding Christ [[Acts 18:4]]. After some time, the Jews, presumably those who were positively impacted by his teaching, express a desire for him to "stay a longer time with them." The text states that Paul "did not consent" (οὐκ ἐπένευσεν). The use of ἐπινεύω here suggests that Paul's refusal was not necessarily a harsh or confrontational rejection, but rather a firm, perhaps understated, denial of their request. It implies a decision made without further deliberation, perhaps conveyed by the absence of an affirming nod. This moment highlights Paul's commitment to his broader missionary mandate, prioritizing the expansion of the Gospel to other regions over an extended stay in a single location, despite the apparent openness and desire of some within the Corinthian Jewish community.
### Related Words & Concepts
The concept of assent or agreement, as conveyed by ἐπινεύω (epineúō, `{{G1962}}`), relates to several other Greek terms and theological ideas:
* **συγκατατίθημι (sygkatatithēmi, `{{G4784}}`):** This verb means "to agree with" or "to consent," often implying a more formal or deliberate act of joining in an opinion or decision. For instance, in [[Luke 23:51]], Joseph of Arimathea "had not consented" to the counsel and deed of the Sanhedrin concerning Jesus.
* **συνευδοκέω (syneudokeō, `{{G4909}}`):** Meaning "to approve together with," "to consent," or "to have pleasure in," this word carries a stronger sense of approval or delight in the agreement. Paul uses it in [[Acts 8:1]] to describe his consent to Stephen's death.
* **πείθω (peithō, `{{G3982}}`):** While primarily meaning "to persuade" or "to be convinced," its passive voice can imply "to obey" or "to be persuaded," which is a form of giving assent.
* **βούλομαι (boulomai, `{{G1014}}`) and θέλω (thelō, `{{G2309}}`):** These verbs express "will" or "desire." The act of consenting is often an expression of one's will or desire.
* The base verb **νεύω (neúō)**, meaning "to nod," though not independently occurring in the New Testament, is foundational to understanding the physical root of ἐπινεύω. It underscores the importance of non-verbal communication in conveying meaning in the ancient world.
### Theological Significance
Despite its solitary appearance, ἐπινεύω (epineúō, `{{G1962}}`) in [[Acts 18:20]] offers a subtle yet profound theological insight into the nature of apostolic ministry and divine leading. Paul's refusal to "consent" to the request for an extended stay in Corinth highlights several key themes:
* **Divine Guidance Overrides Human Preference:** The passage subtly contrasts the sincere human desire for Paul's continued presence with Paul's adherence to a divinely directed itinerary. It illustrates that effective ministry is not solely dictated by human appeal or even apparent success in one location, but by a perceived divine calling to reach broader territories.
* **Strategic Stewardship of Ministry:** Paul's decision reflects a wise stewardship of his time, gifts, and the opportunities for evangelism. Recognizing the vastness of the spiritual harvest and the urgency of spreading the Gospel, he understood that prolonged stays, even in fruitful areas, might hinder the overall mission.
* **The Dynamic Nature of Missions:** It underscores that the work of evangelism and discipleship is dynamic and often requires movement. While intensive, localized ministry is vital, the broader advance of the Kingdom necessitates a strategic, sometimes migratory, approach to planting churches and proclaiming the Good News in new regions. Paul's non-consent, therefore, is not a failure of ministry but a strategic decision in the unfolding narrative of God's redemptive plan.
### Summary
The Greek verb ἐπινεύω (epineúō, `{{G1962}}`) literally means "to nod at" and, by extension, signifies "to assent" or "to consent." Its etymological roots in a physical gesture of affirmation highlight its nuanced meaning. Appearing only once in the New Testament, in [[Acts 18:20]], it describes Paul's decision not to "consent" to the Corinthian Jews' request for him to extend his stay. This singular occurrence is deeply significant, illustrating Paul's unwavering commitment to his divinely appointed missionary journey. It serves as a powerful reminder that apostolic ministry operates under divine guidance, prioritizing the strategic, widespread proclamation of the Gospel over localized desires, even when faced with genuine receptivity. The word thus encapsulates a moment of discernment, where a subtle non-verbal act of refusal carries profound implications for the advancement of God's Kingdom.
TRV