from ἐπί and a derivative of the latter part of ἐπιποθέω; yearned upon, i.e. greatly loved:--longed for.
Transliteration:epipóthētos
Pronunciation:ep-ee-poth'-ay-tos
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek adjective ἐπιπόθητος (epipóthētos, `{{G1973}}`) is derived from the intensified verb ἐπιποθέω (epipotheō, `{{G1971}}`), meaning "to long for, yearn for, crave intensely." The prefix ἐπί (epi, `{{G1909}}`) serves to strengthen the inherent meaning of ποθέω (potheō, `{{G4341}}`), indicating a strong direction or focus "upon" the object of desire. The suffix -τος typically forms a verbal adjective, often conveying a passive sense, hence "that which is yearned upon" or "that which is greatly desired." Its core meaning encompasses "greatly loved," "longed for," and "deeply cherished." It describes the *object* of an intense and profound affection, signifying not merely love, but a love accompanied by a deep yearning or desire for presence, well-being, or spiritual connection.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The term ἐπιπόθητος (epipóthētos, `{{G1973}}`) appears only once in the New Testament, yet its singular occurrence is profoundly significant.
* **[[Philippians 4:1]]**: "Therefore, my brothers, whom I love and long for, my joy and crown, stand firm in the Lord in this way, my beloved." (NIV translation often renders it "long for" or "longed for").
In this verse, the Apostle Paul addresses the Philippian believers. By describing them as ἐπιπόθητος, Paul conveys the extraordinary depth of his affection and spiritual connection to them. It is not a casual or perfunctory love, but one characterized by an intense yearning. This yearning likely encompasses his desire for their spiritual steadfastness, their continued growth in Christ, and perhaps a deep longing for personal fellowship and reunion with them. The phrase highlights Paul's profound pastoral heart, demonstrating that his ministry was not merely doctrinal but deeply relational and emotionally invested. He views them as his "joy and crown," further emphasizing their cherished status and the deep satisfaction he finds in their faith and spiritual progress.
### Related Words & Concepts
Understanding ἐπιπόθητος (epipóthētos, `{{G1973}}`) is enhanced by examining its linguistic relatives and conceptual parallels:
* **ἐπιποθέω (epipotheō, `{{G1971}}`):** The verb from which ἐπιπόθητος is directly derived. It denotes the act of longing or yearning itself. Examples include Paul's longing to see the Roman believers ([[Romans 1:11]]) and Timothy's longing to see Paul ([[2 Timothy 1:4]]).
* **ποθέω (potheō, `{{G4341}}`):** The simpler root verb, meaning "to long for, desire."
* **ἀγαπάω (agapaō, `{{G25}}`):** While ἀγαπάω signifies a general, often unconditional and divine love, ἐπιπόθητος adds a layer of intense yearning or desire to this love. It suggests an ἀγάπη (agape) that is accompanied by a profound, almost aching, desire for the object of affection.
* **φιλέω (phileō, `{{G5368}}`):** This term denotes brotherly love or affection. ἐπιπόθητος transcends mere affection, pointing to a deep, personal, and often anticipatory desire for communion or presence.
* **ὀρέγομαι (oregomai, `{{G3715}}`):** To reach after, stretch oneself out for, desire. This verb shares the sense of strong desire, but ἐπιπόθητος focuses more on the *object* of that intense longing.
### Theological Significance
The singular use of ἐπιπόθητος (epipóthētos, `{{G1973}}`) in [[Philippians 4:1]] carries significant theological weight:
* **The Nature of Apostolic and Pastoral Love:** It vividly portrays the depth of spiritual and emotional investment that true apostolic and pastoral ministry entails. Paul's relationship with the Philippians was not a detached, intellectual exercise but a profound, personal, and passionate bond. This serves as a model for all who minister, emphasizing that genuine care for God's people involves deep affection and a yearning for their spiritual flourishing and fellowship.
* **The Value of Believers in Christ:** By describing the Philippians as "longed for," Paul elevates their status and underscores their immense value in his eyes, and implicitly, in God's eyes. They are not merely statistics or converts, but cherished members of the Body of Christ, worthy of deep affection and earnest desire for their well-being. This highlights the preciousness of each individual within the community of faith.
* **The Relational Dimension of the Body of Christ:** The term speaks to the profound relational aspect of Christian fellowship. The yearning implied by ἐπιπόθητος suggests a desire for continued communion, whether in this life or in the eschatological hope of future reunion with Christ and one another. It underscores that the church is not merely an organization but a family bound by deep spiritual and emotional ties.
* **An Echo of Divine Affection:** While the term is applied to Paul's human affection, the intensity of this yearning for the spiritual welfare of others can be seen as a reflection, albeit imperfect, of God's own passionate love and yearning for His people and the ultimate restoration of His creation.
### Summary
ἐπιπόθητος (epipóthētos, `{{G1973}}`) is a powerful Greek adjective meaning "greatly longed for," "deeply cherished," or "yearned upon." Its sole New Testament occurrence in [[Philippians 4:1]] reveals the profound depth of the Apostle Paul's love and intense desire for the Philippian believers. Derived from ἐπιποθέω (epipotheō, `{{G1971}}`), it signifies an affection that is coupled with a strong, almost aching, yearning for presence, spiritual well-being, and fellowship. Theologically, this word illuminates the passionate nature of apostolic and pastoral love, underscores the immense value of believers within the Body of Christ, and highlights the essential relational dimension of Christian community. It speaks to a love that is not merely intellectual or volitional, but deeply emotional and desiring, reflecting a measure of God's own heart for His people.
TRV