from ἐπί and a derivative of σκιά; to cast a shade upon, i.e. (by analogy) to envelop in a haze of brilliancy; figuratively, to invest with preternatural influence:--overshadow.
### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **episkiázō**, represented by `{{G1982}}`, means to cast a shade upon or overshadow. It is formed from the words `{{G1909}}` **epí** and a derivative of `{{G4639}}` **skiá**. While it can refer to a literal shadow, it is used analogously to mean enveloping in a haze of brilliancy or, figuratively, investing with preternatural influence. It appears 5 times across 5 unique verses in the Bible.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The use of `{{G1982}}` occurs in several significant moments of divine manifestation. During the Transfiguration, a "bright cloud" **overshadowed** the disciples, from which the Father's voice spoke [[Matthew 17:5]]. This event is also recorded in Mark and Luke, where a cloud **overshadowed** them, causing them to fear ([[Mark 9:7]], [[Luke 9:34]]). The term is also used by the angel Gabriel, who told Mary that "the power of the Highest shall **overshadow** thee" [[Luke 1:35]], linking the word to the supernatural work of the Holy Ghost. In a different context, people hoped that even the shadow of Peter passing by might **overshadow** the sick for healing [[Acts 5:15]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related Greek words help illuminate the meaning of `{{G1982}}`:
* `{{G1909}}` **epí** (upon): As a primary component of the word, this preposition signifies superimposition, meaning over or upon. It highlights the action of something coming over or resting upon a person or object, as when the power of Christ is to rest **upon** an individual [[2 Corinthians 12:9]].
* `{{G4639}}` **skiá** (shadow): This is the root word for "shade" or shadow. While it can be a literal shadow, as with Peter's **shadow** in [[Acts 5:15]], it is also used figuratively to describe a "shadow of things to come" [[Colossians 2:17]], indicating that the physical points to a spiritual reality.
* `{{G1411}}` **dýnamis** (power): This word is explicitly linked to `{{G1982}}` at the annunciation, where the **power** of the Highest would overshadow Mary [[Luke 1:35]]. This connects the act of overshadowing with miraculous **power** and divine ability.
* `{{G3507}}` **nephélē** (cloud): This word is almost always present when `{{G1982}}` is used to describe a divine encounter. The Transfiguration events feature a **cloud** that overshadowed the disciples [[Mark 9:7]], serving as the vehicle for God's glorious presence.
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G1982}}` is significant, pointing to specific ways God interacts with humanity.
* **Manifestation of Divine Glory:** The overshadowing cloud at the Transfiguration is a clear sign of God's presence and glory, reminiscent of how He appeared in the Old Testament. The "bright cloud" that **overshadowed** them was a tangible manifestation of God's approval of His Son [[Matthew 17:5]].
* **Supernatural Agency:** The word signifies more than a passive covering; it denotes an active, preternatural influence. When the "power of the Highest" **overshadowed** Mary, it was an act of divine impartation and creation, enabling the conception of the Son of God [[Luke 1:35]].
* **Mediated Blessing:** The belief that Peter's shadow could **overshadow** and heal the sick demonstrates that this divine influence could be mediated through God's chosen servants. It suggests that the power residing within a person could extend and affect others [[Acts 5:15]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G1982}}` is a potent term that conveys far more than a simple shadow. It is used in Scripture to describe a direct and powerful encounter with the divine. Whether through a brilliant cloud of glory, the impartation of the Holy Ghost, or the influence of an apostle, to be overshadowed by `{{G1982}}` is to be enveloped by the active, preternatural presence of God.
TRV