### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek noun G1974 (epipothía) denotes an "intense longing" or "great desire." It is derived from the verb `{{G1971}}` (epipotheō), meaning "to long for," "to crave," or "to yearn after." The prefix "epi-" intensifies the base meaning, suggesting a strong, earnest, and often passionate yearning directed "upon" or "toward" an object. This word signifies a deep-seated and persistent desire, distinguishing it from a fleeting or superficial wish. It conveys a profound emotional pull, indicating a heartfelt and eager yearning for something or someone. Unlike some other Greek terms for desire, epipothía inherently carries a positive or neutral connotation, often implying a virtuous or sanctified longing.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The noun G1974 (epipothía) appears only once in the New Testament, in the apostle Paul's letter to the Romans:
* [[Romans 15:23]]: "But now, having no more place in these regions, and having had for many years a great desire (ἐπιποθία) to come to you..."
In this singular occurrence, Paul expresses his profound and long-standing desire to visit the believers in Rome. This epipothía is not a casual wish but a deep, persistent yearning rooted in his apostolic calling and pastoral heart. The context reveals that Paul's desire is driven by his commitment to spreading the gospel to unreached areas ([[Romans 15:20-21]]) and his longing for fellowship and mutual encouragement with fellow believers ([[Romans 1:11-12]]). His epipothía is therefore a holy desire, indicative of his spiritual priorities and his fervent love for the churches. It underscores his missionary zeal and his commitment to the spiritual welfare of others.
### Related Words & Concepts
The most directly related word to G1974 (epipothía) is its verbal root, `{{G1971}}` (epipotheō), which means "to long for" or "to yearn for." This verb is used more frequently in the New Testament and consistently carries the same sense of intense, often spiritual, longing:
* Paul expresses his longing for the Philippian believers ([[Philippians 1:8]]).
* The Corinthians' "earnest longing" for Paul is noted ([[2 Corinthians 7:7]]).
* Paul speaks of the Corinthians' "earnest longing" for the saints in Jerusalem ([[2 Corinthians 9:14]]).
* Peter encourages believers to "long for" pure spiritual milk ([[1 Peter 2:2]]).
Other Greek words for desire, such as `{{G1939}}` (epithymia), can sometimes carry negative connotations of sinful lusts, though it can also refer to neutral or even positive desires (e.g., Paul's desire to depart and be with Christ in [[Philippians 1:23]]). In contrast, epipothía and its verbal form epipotheō consistently denote a pure, earnest, and often sanctified longing, free from the negative associations that epithymia can sometimes imply. The concept of "yearning" or "pining" is central to understanding epipothía, highlighting a deep emotional and spiritual investment.
### Theological Significance
The singular use of G1974 (epipothía) in [[Romans 15:23]] offers significant theological insight into the nature of sanctified desire within the Christian life and ministry. Paul's "great desire" exemplifies a longing that is Spirit-led and Christ-centered. It is not a selfish craving but a yearning for the advancement of God's kingdom, for the spiritual edification of believers, and for genuine Christian fellowship.
This word highlights:
1. **The Heart of a Missionary/Pastor:** It reveals the deep affection, burden, and zeal that a spiritual leader can and should have for those under their care and for the unreached. This epipothía is a driving force behind evangelism, discipleship, and pastoral care.
2. **Sanctified Affection:** In a world often driven by self-serving desires, epipothía stands as a model of pure, holy affection. It points to desires that align with God's will and contribute to His purposes.
3. **The Nature of Christian Fellowship:** Paul's desire to be with the Roman believers underscores the importance of physical presence, mutual encouragement, and shared spiritual gifts within the body of Christ.
4. **Divine Archetype:** While the term is not used of God directly, the concept resonates with God's own "longing" for His people, His desire for their salvation, and His jealousy for their devotion, providing a divine pattern for such earnest spiritual yearning.
### Summary
G1974 (epipothía) signifies an "intense longing" or "great desire," derived from the verb "to yearn for." Its sole New Testament occurrence in [[Romans 15:23]] beautifully illustrates the apostle Paul's deep, earnest, and sanctified desire to visit the Roman believers. This word consistently denotes a pure and holy yearning, free from negative connotations, and stands as a testament to the profound spiritual affections that characterize a Christ-centered life and ministry. It encapsulates a passionate, Spirit-led longing for fellowship, for the spread of the Gospel, and for the spiritual welfare of others, serving as a powerful example of Christian devotion and zeal.
TRV