### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek verb ἐπιῤῥίπτω (epirrhíptō `{{G1977}}`) is a compound word derived from the preposition ἐπί (epi), meaning "upon," "on," or "over," and the verb ῥίπτω (rhiptō `{{G4496}}`), meaning "to throw," "cast," or "hurl." Therefore, the core meaning of epirrhíptō is "to throw upon," "to cast onto," or "to hurl over."
This base definition carries both a literal and a figurative semantic range. In its literal sense, it denotes the physical act of placing something on top of another object with a throwing motion. Figuratively, it extends to the idea of transferring a burden, responsibility, or emotional weight from oneself to another. The prefix ἐπί emphasizes the direction and destination of the action, highlighting that something is being placed *onto* or *upon* something else, implying a transfer of ownership, responsibility, or even a burden.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The term ἐπιῤῥίπτω appears only twice in the New Testament, each instance offering a distinct contextual application that illuminates its range of meaning.
1. **Luke 19:35**: "And they brought him to Jesus, and casting their garments on the colt, they set Jesus thereon." [[Luke 19:35]]
In this passage, epirrhíptō is used in its literal sense. The disciples "cast" or "threw upon" their cloaks onto the young donkey. This action served to prepare the animal for Jesus to ride, creating a makeshift saddle. It is an act of practical service and reverence, preparing the way for the Lord's triumphal entry into Jerusalem. The physical act of casting the garments signifies a preparation and dedication of an object for sacred use.
2. **1 Peter 5:7**: "Casting all your care upon Him, for He cares for you." [[1 Peter 5:7]]
Here, the verb is employed in a profoundly significant figurative sense. Believers are commanded to "cast" or "throw upon" God all their μέριμνα (merimna `{{G3309}}`), which refers to anxieties, worries, and concerns. This is not a passive act but an active, deliberate transfer of burdens. The imperative mood ("casting") underscores the volitional nature of this act of faith. The theological ground for this command is immediately provided: "for He cares for you." This divine care (μέλει - meleō `{{G3199}}`, "it matters to Him") is the foundation for the believer's ability to relinquish their anxieties. The context of 1 Peter 5:6-7 encourages humility (ταπεινώθητε - tapeinoō `{{G5013}}`) under God's mighty hand, promising exaltation in due time, and then connects this humility directly to the casting of cares.
### Related Words & Concepts
Understanding ἐπιῤῥίπτω is enhanced by considering related terms and concepts:
* **ῥίπτω (rhiptō `{{G4496}}`):** The base verb, meaning "to throw, cast." The addition of ἐπί specifies the direction and recipient of the casting.
* **μέριμνα (merimna `{{G3309}}`):** "Care, anxiety, worry." This noun is the direct object of epirrhíptō in 1 Peter 5:7, highlighting the specific emotional and mental burdens that believers are called to transfer to God.
* **βάρος (baros `{{G922}}`):** "Weight, burden." While not etymologically linked, βάρος is conceptually related, as epirrhíptō implies the transfer of a heavy load, whether literal or figurative.
* **Trust and Faith:** The act of "casting" one's cares is inherently an act of πίστις (pistis `{{G4102}}`), or faith, demonstrating reliance and confidence in God's character and providence.
* **Old Testament Parallels:** The concept of casting one's burden upon the Lord has strong roots in the Old Testament, notably in Psalm 55:22: "Cast your burden on the Lord, and He will sustain you; He will never permit the righteous to be moved." [[Psalm 55:22]] This intertextual connection reinforces the continuity of divine care across covenants.
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of ἐπιῤῥίπτω, particularly in 1 Peter 5:7, is profound and multifaceted:
* **Divine Providence and Sovereignty:** The command to cast all anxieties upon God underscores His active involvement in the lives of His people. It affirms God's providential care over every detail, implying that nothing is too small or insignificant for His attention. Believers are encouraged to acknowledge God's ultimate control and relinquish their attempts to manage life's complexities independently.
* **Antidote to Anxiety:** In a world fraught with worry, this verse offers a powerful antidote. It does not suggest that believers will be free from troubles, but rather that they possess a divine resource for handling them. The act of casting is a deliberate choice to resist the grip of anxiety and to embrace a posture of trust.
* **Humility and Dependence:** Preceded by the command to humble oneself under God's mighty hand, casting cares becomes an expression of this humility. It acknowledges human limitations and dependence on God's strength and wisdom. It is a surrender of self-reliance for divine reliance.
* **Intimacy with God:** The invitation to cast one's most personal anxieties upon God speaks to the intimate relationship He desires with His children. He is not a distant deity but a loving Father who genuinely cares (μέλει - meleō `{{G3199}}`) for their well-being.
* **Peace and Rest:** The implicit promise of casting cares is the experience of God's peace. When burdens are transferred, the soul finds rest in the assurance of God's unwavering love and faithfulness.
### Summary
ἐπιῤῥίπτω (epirrhíptō `{{G1977}}`) literally means "to throw upon" or "to cast onto." Its two New Testament occurrences beautifully illustrate its range: a literal act of preparation in [[Luke 19:35]] and a deeply significant figurative command in [[1 Peter 5:7]]. In the latter, believers are exhorted to actively "cast all their care upon Him," a powerful directive to transfer their anxieties and worries to God. This command is rooted in the profound theological truth that God genuinely "cares for you," demonstrating His active providence, inviting profound trust, fostering humility, and offering an antidote to human anxiety. The word thus encapsulates a vital aspect of Christian living: surrendering personal burdens to the sovereign and loving God.
TRV