from ἐπί and σπάω; to draw over, i.e. (with ἀκροβυστία implied) efface the mark of circumcision (by recovering with the foreskin):--become uncircumcised.
### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **epispáomai**, represented by `{{G1986}}`, means to draw over or to efface the mark of circumcision. It is derived from ἐπί and σπάω. This specific term appears **2 times** across **1 unique verses** in the Bible, carrying a very focused meaning related to reversing the physical sign of the covenant.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The sole use of `{{G1986}}` appears in a direct command from the Apostle Paul. In the context of a person's standing when they are called to faith, he asks, "Is any man called being circumcised? let him not **become uncircumcised**" [[1 Corinthians 7:18]]. This instruction is immediately balanced by its opposite: "Is any called in uncircumcision? let him not be circumcised." The use of **epispáomai** here serves to prohibit the attempt to physically undo or hide the mark of circumcision, establishing that one's external state at the time of conversion is not something that needs to be altered.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words provide the broader context for the significance of circumcision and uncircumcision:
* `{{G203}}` **akrobystía** (uncircumcision): This term refers to an uncircumcised state or person. It is used to describe the state of Gentiles before God [[Ephesians 2:11]] and the sinful nature of the flesh [[Colossians 2:13]], but is ultimately presented as spiritually irrelevant compared to faith in Christ ([[Galatians 5:6]], [[Galatians 6:15]]).
* `{{G4059}}` **peritémnō** (to circumcise): This word means to cut around or to circumcise. It is associated with the covenant given to Abraham [[Acts 7:8]] and the law of Moses [[Acts 15:1]]. Scripture also uses it to distinguish between a physical act and the spiritual "circumcision of Christ" [[Colossians 2:11]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G1986}}` is understood through its context, which de-emphasizes physical religious rites.
* **Sufficiency of Calling:** The command to not **become uncircumcised** underscores the principle that a believer's standing before God is not dependent on physical marks. One's condition at the moment of calling is sufficient [[1 Corinthians 7:18]].
* **Irrelevance of External Rites:** This instruction is part of a larger biblical theme that physical circumcision or uncircumcision "availeth any thing" in the new covenant ([[Galatians 5:6]], [[Galatians 6:15]]). What matters instead is "the keeping of the commandments of God" [[1 Corinthians 7:19]] and becoming "a new creature" [[Galatians 6:15]].
* **Unity in Christ:** By forbidding attempts to change one's circumcised or uncircumcised state, the focus is shifted to a new identity where such distinctions are erased. In Christ, there is "neither Greek nor Jew, circumcision nor uncircumcision" [[Colossians 3:11]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G1986}}` is a very specific term whose biblical usage serves a profound theological purpose. While it literally refers to the act of reversing circumcision, its appearance in scripture is a powerful statement against the perceived need to alter one's external, physical identity for spiritual acceptance. It points believers away from outward signs and toward the inward reality of a new life in Christ, where such marks are rendered obsolete.
TRV