### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **ἐπιστάτης (epistátēs)**, represented by `{{G1988}}`, is defined as an appointee over, a commander or teacher, translated as **master**. It appears **7 times** across **6 unique verses** in the Bible, highlighting a specific relationship of authority and respect.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{G1988}}` is used exclusively by the disciples and others to address Jesus in the Gospel of Luke. This title appears in moments of crisis, instruction, or appeal. For instance, after a night of fruitless fishing, Simon Peter addresses Jesus as "**Master**" before obeying his command to let down the nets, an act of faith in his authority [[Luke 5:5]]. In a moment of peril, the disciples wake Jesus during a storm, crying, "**Master**, **master**, we perish" [[Luke 8:24]]. The term is also used when appealing for healing, as when the lepers call out, "**Jesus**, **Master**, have mercy on us" [[Luke 17:13]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the context in which **epistátēs** is used:
* `{{G2424}}` **Iēsoûs** (Jesus): The one who is consistently addressed as **Master**. He is identified as the way, the truth, and the life [[John 14:6]] and the one through whom God accomplishes His work [[Philippians 1:6]].
* `{{G4613}}` **Símōn** (Simon): A key disciple who addresses Jesus as **Master** [[Luke 5:5]]. His interactions demonstrate a recognition of Jesus’s unique authority, confessing him as "the Christ, the Son of the living God" [[Matthew 16:16]].
* `{{G4487}}` **rhēma** (word): The basis for the Master's authority. Simon’s obedience is based on Jesus's **word** [[Luke 5:5]], and faith itself is described as coming by the **word** of God [[Romans 10:17]].
* `{{G2491}}` **Iōánnēs** (John): Another disciple who addresses Jesus as **Master**. He does so when reporting on another person acting in Jesus's name, showing deference to his authority on matters of discipleship [[Luke 9:49]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G1988}}` is significant, highlighting the disciples’ understanding of Jesus's role.
* **Authority Over Creation:** The disciples use the title "**Master**" when confronted by the storm, acknowledging His power over the natural world [[Luke 8:24]]. Their cry is a direct appeal to the one they believe can command the wind and the water.
* **Commander in Action:** Simon Peter uses "**Master**" not just as a title of respect, but as a precursor to obeying a direct command that defies his own professional experience [[Luke 5:5]]. This demonstrates a submission to Jesus as a commander whose **word** `{{G4487}}` holds ultimate power.
* **Source of Mercy and Power:** The lepers combine the name **Jesus** `{{G2424}}` with the title **Master** `{{G1988}}` in their plea for mercy, indicating their belief in him as an appointed authority with the power to heal and restore [[Luke 17:13]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G1988}}` is a focused and potent term used in Luke's Gospel to define the relationship between Jesus and his followers. It moves beyond a simple term of respect to become a title acknowledging his supreme authority as a commander and teacher. Whether in a storm, after a night of failure, or in a plea for healing, **epistátēs** is the title used by those who recognize Jesus’s power to command their circumstances and their very lives.
TRV