### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **epiplḗssō**, represented by `{{G1969}}`, means to **rebuke** or chastise with words. Derived from ἐπί and πλήσσω, it carries the specific sense of an upbraiding. This term is exceptionally rare, appearing only **1 time** in the Bible, which makes its single instance in scripture highly instructive.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The sole use of `{{G1969}}` is found in a command regarding church conduct in [[1 Timothy 5:1]]. Paul instructs Timothy, "**Rebuke** not an elder, but intreat him as a father." In this context, the word defines a specific action to be avoided when addressing a senior member of the community. It is placed in direct contrast to the preferred action of "intreating," showing that a harsh, chastising correction is inappropriate for an elder.
### Related Words & Concepts
The meaning of `{{G1969}}` is clarified by the words used alongside it in its only biblical appearance:
* `{{G4245}}` **presbýteros** (older; as noun, a senior... or Christian "presbyter":-- elder(-est), old): This is the subject who should not be rebuked with `{{G1969}}`. The term refers to a senior figure or a Christian presbyter who is due respect, as seen in the instruction for younger people to submit to the **elder** [[1 Peter 5:5]].
* `{{G3870}}` **parakaléō** (to call near, i.e. invite, invoke (by imploration, hortation or consolation):--beseech... comfort... exhort... intreat, pray): This word presents the proper alternative to a harsh rebuke. Instead of upbraiding, one is to **intreat** or exhort an elder. This same word is used for beseeching believers [[Romans 12:1]] and exhorting one another [[Hebrews 10:25]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G1969}}` is tied to its specific prohibition and the principles of church order.
* **Respect for Leadership:** The command "Rebuke not an elder" establishes a clear standard for showing honor to those in positions of spiritual authority. It forbids a specific kind of sharp verbal chastisement toward a `{{G4245}}` presbyter [[1 Timothy 5:1]].
* **A Model of Correction:** By contrasting `{{G1969}}` with `{{G3870}}`, scripture advocates for a method of correction rooted in encouragement and appeal rather than confrontation. The instruction is not to avoid correction entirely, but to approach it by "intreating" him as a father.
* **Maintaining Church Harmony:** This principle supports the broader biblical theme of unity and mutual respect within the body of Christ, as seen in calls to be "perfectly joined together in the same mind" [[1 Corinthians 1:10]] and to walk worthy of the calling [[Ephesians 4:1]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G1969}}` **epiplḗssō** provides a precise definition of a harsh rebuke that is forbidden when addressing a church elder. Its singular use in [[1 Timothy 5:1]] is not an oversight but a focused instruction on proper conduct. It teaches that while correction may be necessary, it must be administered with the respect and honor due to a father, using entreaty and exhortation rather than sharp upbraiding.
TRV