from ἐπί and σκοπέω; to oversee; by implication, to beware:--look diligently, take the oversight.
Transliteration:episkopéō
Pronunciation:ep-ee-skop-eh'-o
Detailed Word Study
AI-Generated
Loading Study...
### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek verb `{{G1983}}` *episkopéō* is a compound word formed from the preposition ἐπί (epi), meaning "upon" or "over," and the verb σκοπέω (skopeō), meaning "to look," "to observe," or "to consider." Etymologically, it signifies "to look upon" or "to look over." From this foundational sense, the word develops a rich semantic range that includes:
* **To oversee:** To superintend, to have charge of, to manage. This implies a position of authority and responsibility for the well-being of something or someone.
* **To inspect:** To examine carefully, to survey with attention, often with a view to correction or improvement.
* **To care for:** To provide for, to attend to, reflecting the diligent concern of one who oversees.
* **To visit:** In some contexts, it can imply a visitation for the purpose of inspection or care.
* **By implication, to beware/take heed:** Because overseeing requires close observation and attention, the word can also convey the sense of being watchful, taking diligent care to avoid something negative, or to ensure something positive. This implies a proactive and vigilant posture.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The verb `{{G1983}}` *episkopéō* appears twice in the New Testament, each instance illuminating different facets of its semantic range:
* **[[1 Peter 5:2]]**: "Shepherd the flock of God that is among you, exercising oversight (ἐπισκοποῦντες), not under compulsion, but willingly, as God would have you; not for shameful gain, but eagerly."
* Here, *episkopéō* is used in the context of the pastoral responsibilities of elders (πρεσβυτέρους). It is directly linked with "shepherding" (ποιμαίνω), indicating a diligent and caring leadership over the church. The participle *episkopountes* describes the manner in which elders are to perform their duty: willingly, eagerly, and without selfish motives. This usage emphasizes the active, responsible, and selfless nature of spiritual oversight, focusing on the welfare of the flock. It is not merely a position of authority but a function of vigilant care.
* **[[Hebrews 12:15]]**: "See to it (ἐπισκοποῦντες) that no one fails to obtain the grace of God; that no root of bitterness springs up and causes trouble, and by it many become defiled."
* In this passage, *episkopéō* carries the sense of "looking diligently," "taking heed," or "being watchful." It is a collective exhortation to the community of believers to exercise mutual vigilance. The command is to actively prevent spiritual decline (ὑστερῶν ἀπὸ τῆς χάριτος τοῦ θεοῦ) and to guard against the emergence of internal spiritual corruption, symbolized by "a root of bitterness" (ῥίζα πικρίας). This usage highlights the preventative and protective aspect of *episkopéō*, underscoring the communal responsibility to maintain spiritual purity and health within the body of Christ.
### Related Words & Concepts
The meaning of `{{G1983}}` *episkopéō* is further clarified by its cognates and related terms:
* **`{{G1984}}` *episkopē* (noun):** This noun derived from *episkopéō* refers to the act of overseeing, superintendence, inspection, or visitation. It can also denote the office of an overseer or bishopric (e.g., [[Acts 1:20]], [[1 Timothy 3:1]]).
* **`{{G1985}}` *episkopos* (noun):** This noun directly translates to "overseer" or "bishop." It designates the person who performs the function of *episkopéō* (e.g., [[Philippians 1:1]], [[Titus 1:7]]). The relationship between the verb and these nouns underscores the functional nature of the office: the *episkopos* is one who *episkopéō*.
* **`{{G4166}}` *poimainō* (to shepherd):** As seen in [[1 Peter 5:2]], *episkopéō* is closely associated with shepherding. Both terms describe the comprehensive care, guidance, and protection provided to the flock of God. While *poimainō* emphasizes the nurturing and leading, *episkopéō* highlights the watchful oversight.
* **`{{G4337}}` *prosechō* (to pay attention):** This verb shares the "take heed" aspect of *episkopéō* in its sense of vigilance and careful observation, particularly in warning contexts.
* **`{{G2334}}` *theaomai* (to behold, gaze) / `{{G3708}}` *horaō* (to see, perceive):** These more general verbs for seeing provide the literal foundation for *skopeō* and thus *episkopéō*, but lack the specific nuance of "overseeing" or "superintending."
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of `{{G1983}}` *episkopéō* is profound, touching upon leadership, community responsibility, and the nature of God's care.
* **Divine Pattern of Oversight:** Although *episkopéō* is applied to human action in the New Testament, the concept of watchful, caring oversight ultimately reflects a divine attribute. God Himself is the ultimate Overseer, whose eyes are always upon His people, providing for and guarding them. Human oversight, particularly in the church, is therefore a participation in and reflection of God's own benevolent vigilance.
* **Pastoral Stewardship and Accountability:** In [[1 Peter 5:2]], *episkopéō* defines a critical aspect of pastoral leadership. It underscores that the role of elders is not one of mere authority or administration, but of humble, selfless, and diligent care for the spiritual welfare of the congregation. This oversight is a sacred trust, demanding willingness, eagerness, and a focus on God's will rather than personal gain. It emphasizes that leaders are stewards, accountable for the souls entrusted to their care.
* **Corporate Vigilance and Mutual Edification:** The use of *episkopéō* in [[Hebrews 12:15]] extends the responsibility of vigilance beyond designated leaders to the entire believing community. It calls every believer to actively "look diligently" or "take heed" for the spiritual well-being of their fellow members. This mutual watchfulness is crucial for preventing spiritual decay, addressing sin, and fostering an environment where grace flourishes. It highlights the interconnectedness of believers and their shared responsibility in maintaining the purity and health of the body of Christ.
* **Proactive Engagement against Spiritual Danger:** Both occurrences of *episkopéō* imply a proactive and engaged posture. Whether it is caring for the flock or guarding against "a root of bitterness," the word calls for active intervention and diligent attention rather than passive observation. It speaks to the necessity of spiritual discernment and timely action to protect the church from internal and external threats.
### Summary
`{{G1983}}` *episkopéō* is a significant Greek verb meaning "to oversee," "to inspect," or "to take heed." Derived from "to look over," it conveys a sense of diligent and responsible attention. In the New Testament, it appears in two crucial contexts:
1. **Pastoral Leadership:** In [[1 Peter 5:2]], it describes the willing and eager spiritual oversight exercised by elders in shepherding God's flock, emphasizing selfless care and responsibility.
2. **Communal Vigilance:** In [[Hebrews 12:15]], it serves as an exhortation for the entire community of believers to be watchful and diligent in preventing spiritual decline and guarding against internal corruption, such as "a root of bitterness."
The word, along with its cognates `{{G1984}}` *episkopē* and `{{G1985}}` *episkopos*, underscores the biblical emphasis on responsible stewardship, active spiritual vigilance, and mutual care within the Christian community, reflecting the divine pattern of watchful and benevolent attention.
TRV