### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **epistḗmōn**, represented by `{{G1990}}`, refers to someone who is **intelligent** or **endued with knowledge**. It appears only 1 time in 1 verse in the Bible, making its single usage particularly significant for understanding its specific application. The term is derived from ἐπίσταμαι, suggesting a practical, understanding-based intelligence.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In its sole biblical appearance, `{{G1990}}` is used in a rhetorical question to identify a specific kind of person within the community. In [[James 3:13]], the author asks, "**who** is a wise man and **endued with knowledge** among you?". This quality is not presented as a standalone attribute but is immediately linked to the expectation of demonstrating it through "a good conversation" and works done with "meekness of wisdom."
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help to clarify the context in which `{{G1990}}` is used:
* `{{G5101}}` **tís** (who, which or what): This interrogative pronoun introduces the question in which `{{G1990}}` is found, asking "**who**" possesses this quality [[James 3:13]]. It is often used to prompt discernment and examination [[Romans 8:31]].
* `{{G4680}}` **sophós** (wise): This term is paired directly with `{{G1990}}` in the phrase "a **wise** man and endued with knowledge" [[James 3:13]]. It describes a person of wisdom, a quality God both gives [[Ephesians 5:15]] and can confound if it is merely worldly [[1 Corinthians 1:27]].
* `{{G4678}}` **sophía** (wisdom): This word defines the source and character of the knowledge implied by `{{G1990}}`. The works of one "endued with knowledge" must be shown with "meekness of **wisdom**" [[James 3:13]]. This godly wisdom is described as pure, peaceable, and from above [[James 3:17]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G1990}}` is found in its practical application and its relationship to divine character.
* **Demonstrable Knowledge:** The term's primary theological importance is its link to observable action. Being `{{G1990}}` is not about private intelligence but about showing forth "his works" from "a good conversation" [[James 3:13]].
* **Qualified by Humility:** True knowledge is inseparable from godly character. It must be demonstrated with "meekness of wisdom" [[James 3:13]], which stands in contrast to worldly wisdom. This meekness is a fruit of the "wisdom that is from above" [[James 3:17]].
* **A Component of True Wisdom:** `{{G1990}}` appears as a component of a larger spiritual state, alongside being "wise" `{{G4680}}` and operating in "wisdom" `{{G4678}}`. It suggests that biblical knowledge is part of a holistic, God-centered wisdom that is given by God [[James 1:5]].
### Summary
In summary, **epistḗmōn** `{{G1990}}` provides a focused definition of a person **endued with knowledge**. Though used only once, its context in [[James 3:13]] is powerful, framing true knowledge not as a passive intellectual state, but as an active quality demonstrated through good works. It is inextricably linked to being **wise** `{{G4680}}` and acting with the humility that comes from true **wisdom** `{{G4678}}`, highlighting the biblical standard that knowledge must be expressed through godly character and action.
TRV