from ἐπίσταμαι; intelligent:--endued with knowledge.
Transliteration:epistḗmōn
Pronunciation:ep-ee-stay'-mone
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek adjective ἐπιστήμων (epistḗmōn, `{{G1990}}`) derives from the verb ἐπίσταμαι (epistamai), which signifies "to know," "to understand," "to be acquainted with," or "to be skilled in." Thus, epistḗmōn describes one who possesses knowledge, intelligence, or understanding. It conveys the sense of being "endued with knowledge" or "intelligent." Importantly, the underlying verb epistamai often implies a practical, experiential, or expert knowledge, rather than merely theoretical or abstract information. It suggests a proficiency or a deep, practical understanding that enables one to act wisely and effectively. Therefore, epistḗmōn denotes not just intellectual capacity but a discerning wisdom that can be applied to life.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The word epistήμων appears only once in the New Testament, specifically in the Epistle of James:
* [[James 3:13]]: "Who is wise and understanding among you? Let him show by good conduct his works in the meekness of wisdom."
In this context, epistήμων is paired with σοφός (sophos, "wise"), forming a rhetorical question that challenges the reader to demonstrate true wisdom. James immediately clarifies that genuine wisdom and understanding are not merely intellectual possessions but are evidenced by "good conduct" (καλῆς ἀναστροφῆς) and "works in the meekness of wisdom" (ἔργα ἐν πραΰτητι σοφίας). The "understanding" or "knowledge" (epistḗmōn) James speaks of is therefore intrinsically linked to practical, humble living, contrasting sharply with the earthly, unspiritual wisdom described later in the chapter (James 3:15). It is a quality that manifests outwardly through righteous behavior, characterized by gentleness and humility, rather than by boastfulness or contention.
### Related Words & Concepts
The semantic field of epistήμων is rich and interconnected with several key biblical terms related to knowledge and wisdom:
* **ἐπίσταμαι** (epistamai): The verbal root from which epistήμων derives, emphasizing the act of knowing, understanding, or being skilled.
* **σοφία** (sophia, `{{G4678}}`): Wisdom, a central concept in James 3. While epistήμων can denote the possessor of knowledge, sophia refers to the quality of wisdom itself. James directly links the two, suggesting that true epistήμων is a manifestation of divine sophia.
* **σύνεσις** (synesis, `{{G4907}}`): Understanding, intelligence, often implying a capacity for insight and discernment. Epistήμων can overlap with this, particularly in its sense of insightful understanding.
* **γνῶσις** (gnosis, `{{G1108}}`): Knowledge, often referring to a more general or experiential knowledge. While gnosis can be intellectual, epistήμων in James 3:13 points to a knowledge that is ethically transformative and practically applied.
* **φρόνησις** (phronesis, `{{G5428}}`): Practical wisdom or prudence, the ability to make sound judgments and act wisely in daily life. This concept aligns closely with the practical demonstration of epistήμων as described by James.
The connection between epistήμων and σοφία in James 3:13 is particularly crucial, highlighting that true understanding is not merely intellectual but is a humble, practical wisdom that bears fruit in righteous living.
### Theological Significance
The singular occurrence of epistήμων in [[James 3:13]] carries profound theological weight. It serves as a direct challenge to any notion of wisdom or knowledge that is detached from ethical conduct. For James, genuine understanding (epistήμων) is not a source of pride or contention, but a wellspring of humility (πραΰτητι) and good works. This contrasts sharply with the "earthly, unspiritual, demonic" wisdom that leads to disorder and every evil practice ([[James 3:15-16]]).
The theological significance lies in the emphasis on the *demonstration* of understanding. It is not enough to claim to be intelligent or knowledgeable; one's life must bear witness to that claim through actions that reflect God's character. This aligns with the broader biblical theme that true knowledge of God leads to obedience and righteous living (e.g., [[John 14:15]], [[1 John 2:3-6]]). Epistήμων thus becomes a descriptor for a believer whose intellectual and spiritual understanding is integrated with their practical walk, resulting in a life that glorifies God through meekness and good deeds. It underscores that Christian understanding is fundamentally practical and relational, aimed at living out the truth rather than merely possessing it.
### Summary
The Greek word ἐπιστήμων (epistḗmōn, `{{G1990}}`) denotes one who is intelligent, understanding, or endued with knowledge, often implying a practical or skilled grasp of a subject. Its sole New Testament appearance in [[James 3:13]] is highly significant, where it is linked to true wisdom (σοφία). James asserts that genuine understanding is not merely an intellectual attribute but must be *demonstrated* through "good conduct" and "works in the meekness of wisdom." This highlights that Christian knowledge is not abstract but profoundly practical and ethical, manifesting in humble, righteous living. The theological implication is that authentic understanding, rooted in God's wisdom, transforms character and produces a life that honors Him through deeds rather than mere intellectual assent.
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