### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **episkopéō**, represented by `{{G1983}}`, is defined as "to oversee" and by implication, "to beware." Derived from ἐπί and σκοπέω, its English translations include "**look diligently**" and "**take the oversight**." This term appears **2 times** across **2 unique verses** in the Bible, highlighting its specific application to spiritual watchfulness and leadership.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In its biblical usage, `{{G1983}}` conveys two distinct but related actions. In [[Hebrews 12:15]], it is a command to "**look diligently**" to prevent a "root of bitterness" from defiling the community and causing anyone to "fail of the grace of God." Here, the focus is on preventative, watchful care. In [[1 Peter 5:2]], leaders are instructed to "feed the flock of God," "**taking the oversight**" thereof willingly and with a ready mind, not for personal gain. This usage emphasizes active, responsible leadership and supervision.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words provide a fuller context for the concept of oversight:
* `{{G4165}}` **poimaínō**: This word means "to tend as a shepherd of (figuratively, superviser):--feed (cattle), rule." It is used directly alongside `{{G1983}}` in [[1 Peter 5:2]], linking the act of oversight to the pastoral duty of feeding God's flock.
* `{{G4168}}` **poímnion**: Meaning "a flock, i.e. (figuratively) group (of believers):--flock," this term identifies the object of the oversight. In both [[1 Peter 5:2]] and [[Acts 20:28]], the "flock" is the group of believers for whom leaders are responsible.
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G1983}}` is significant for understanding spiritual leadership and community health.
* **Proactive Leadership:** The term is not passive. It commands a hands-on approach to leadership, described as "**taking the oversight**" of God's people, which includes the duty to feed them spiritually [[1 Peter 5:2]].
* **Protective Watchfulness:** It carries an urgent sense of guarding the spiritual well-being of the community. Believers are to "**look diligently**" to ensure that destructive influences like bitterness do not take root and cause defilement [[Hebrews 12:15]].
* **Shepherding Responsibility:** Its direct connection with the words for "feed" `{{G4165}}` and "flock" `{{G4168}}` places it squarely within the shepherding metaphor, defining oversight as a core function of a spiritual shepherd.
### Summary
In summary, `{{G1983}}` is a concise but powerful term for spiritual responsibility. Though used sparingly, it defines the dual role of a spiritual guardian: to actively lead and supervise the flock, and to diligently watch over it to protect it from internal corruption. It establishes a clear biblical standard for caring for the church with both vigilance and a willing heart.
TRV