from ἐπί and some form of the base of σημαίνω; remarkable, i.e. (figuratively) eminent:--notable, of note.
Transliteration:epísēmos
Pronunciation:ep-is'-ay-mos
Detailed Word Study
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word ἐπίσημος (epísēmos), Strong's number `{{G1978}}`, is derived from ἐπί (epí), meaning "upon" or "on," and the root of σημαίνω (sēmainō), meaning "to show, signify, mark." Its core etymological sense is "marked upon" or "bearing a distinctive mark." This literal meaning extends figurately to describe something or someone "remarkable," "distinguished," "prominent," "eminent," or "notable." It denotes a quality of standing out from the ordinary, attracting attention due to a particular characteristic, achievement, or even notoriety. The "mark" implied is one of distinction, whether positive or negative, indicating that the person or object is not just one among many, but uniquely recognizable.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The term ἐπίσημος (epísēmos) appears only twice in the New Testament, presenting a fascinating study in contrasting applications.
1. **[[Romans 16:7]]**: "Salute Andronicus and Junia, my kinsmen, and my fellow-prisoners, who are of note among the apostles, who also were in Christ before me."
* Here, ἐπίσημος is translated as "of note" or "notable." It is used to describe Andronicus and Junia as individuals who were highly regarded, prominent, or outstanding "among the apostles." This does not necessarily imply they held the office of apostle, but rather that they were esteemed and well-known within the apostolic circles, possibly for their exemplary faith, early conversion ("in Christ before me"), and shared suffering with Paul ("fellow-prisoners"). Their notability is clearly presented as a mark of honor and respect within the early Christian community, signifying their significant influence and spiritual standing.
2. **[[Matthew 27:16]]**: "And they had then a notable prisoner, called Barabbas."
* In this instance, ἐπίσημος describes Barabbas as a "notable" or "well-known" prisoner. Unlike the positive connotation in Romans, Barabbas's notability stems from his infamy. He was a prominent figure in the public consciousness due to his criminal activities, specifically insurrection and murder ([[Luke 23:19]], [[Mark 15:7]]). He was not an obscure detainee, but a widely recognized individual, making him a fitting choice for the crowd's demand during the Passover amnesty. His "mark" was one of public notoriety and criminal distinction.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several Greek terms share semantic overlap or conceptual connections with ἐπίσημος (epísēmos):
* **σημαίνω (sēmainō) (base of `{{G4591}}`)**: The verbal root from which ἐπίσημος is derived, meaning "to show," "to signify," or "to indicate." This highlights the core idea of being "marked out" or "made known."
* **ἔνδοξος (endoxos) `{{G1741}}`**: Meaning "glorious," "splendid," or "highly esteemed." While ἐπίσημος emphasizes being "marked out" or "notable," ἔνδοξος often points to inherent glory or a state of being highly honored, often as a result of one's character or achievements.
* **γνωστός (gnōstos) `{{G1110}}`**: Meaning "known" or "well-known." This term directly relates to the aspect of being recognized or familiar, particularly relevant to Barabbas's public recognition.
* **δόκιμος (dokimos) `{{G1384}}`**: Meaning "approved," "tried," or "esteemed." This refers to someone who has been tested and found worthy, which could lead to a positive ἐπίσημος status within a community.
* **πρωτεύω (prōteuō) `{{G4409}}`**: Meaning "to be first" or "to hold the first place." While not a direct synonym, preeminence can be a consequence of being ἐπίσημος.
### Theological Significance
The limited but striking occurrences of ἐπίσημος (epísēmos) in the New Testament offer significant theological insights:
1. **The Ambiguity of "Notability":** The primary theological implication is that "notability" or "prominence" is morally neutral. Its value is entirely dependent on the context and the character of the person described. Andronicus and Junia are "notable" for their faithful service, suffering, and early commitment to Christ, embodying spiritual distinction and honor. Barabbas, conversely, is "notable" for his rebellion and criminality, representing public infamy. This stark contrast serves as a powerful reminder that worldly recognition or fame does not equate to divine approval or genuine worth.
2. **Divine vs. Human Recognition:** The use of ἐπίσημος implicitly draws a distinction between human, worldly recognition and divine recognition. Barabbas's notoriety was a matter of public opinion and human judgment, rooted in his deeds of rebellion. The prominence of Andronicus and Junia, while recognized by fellow believers, was ultimately rooted in their relationship with Christ and their service to His kingdom, implying a deeper, spiritual recognition that aligns with God's perspective. This aligns with biblical themes that God sees and honors those who are faithful, even if their renown is not widespread in the world (e.g., [[1 Samuel 16:7]]).
3. **The Nature of Christian Influence:** The positive application of ἐπίσημος to Andronicus and Junia highlights that certain individuals in the early church became influential figures due to their spiritual maturity, unwavering dedication, and willingness to suffer for the Gospel. Their "notability" served as an example and encouragement to others, demonstrating the impact of a life authentically lived "in Christ." This underscores the importance of lives that are "marked" by faithfulness, even if such marks are primarily visible within the community of faith.
### Summary
The Greek word ἐπίσημος (epísēmos), Strong's number `{{G1978}}`, fundamentally means "marked upon," extending to "remarkable," "eminent," or "notable." Its two New Testament occurrences provide a profound theological contrast. In [[Romans 16:7]], Andronicus and Junia are "of note" among the apostles, signifying their positive distinction, perhaps due to their early faith, shared suffering, and dedicated service to Christ. This points to a spiritual eminence and honor within the believing community. In stark contrast, [[Matthew 27:16]] describes Barabbas as a "notable prisoner," where the term denotes public notoriety and infamy due to his criminal actions. This dual usage of ἐπίσημος powerfully illustrates that prominence or being "marked out" is morally neutral; its ethical and theological significance is entirely determined by the character and deeds of the one described. It serves as a reverent reminder that while worldly recognition can arise from rebellion, true spiritual distinction, honored by God and His people, springs from faithful devotion and sacrificial living for the Gospel. The word thus invites believers to consider what truly makes a person "of note" in the divine economy.
TRV