### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **epistolḗ**, represented by `{{G1992}}`, is a term for a **written message**, translated as **"epistle"** or **"letter."** It appears 24 times in 23 unique verses, indicating its specific but important role in the biblical text. The word is used to describe everything from official administrative letters to the foundational apostolic writings that convey doctrine and encouragement to the early church.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In its practical use, `{{G1992}}` refers to formal written documents. For example, Saul sought **letters** `{{G1992}}` to Damascus to grant him authority to persecute followers of the Way [[Acts 9:2]]. The apostles also used epistles as the primary means of long-distance communication with the churches, giving instructions that a **letter** `{{G1992}}` should be read to all the brethren [[1 Thessalonians 5:27]]. The term is also used metaphorically to describe believers themselves, as in 2 Corinthians where the church is called "the **epistle** of Christ," written not with ink but by the Spirit of God [[2 Corinthians 3:3]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the creation, purpose, and context of an `{{G1992}}` **epistle**:
* `{{G1125}}` **gráphō** (to write): This is the verb for the action of producing an **epistle**. It is used by the scribe Tertius, who states, "I Tertius, who **wrote** this epistle, salute you in the Lord" [[Romans 16:22]].
* `{{G314}}` **anaginṓskō** (to read): This word denotes the primary purpose of a letter. Paul instructs that once an **epistle** is **read** among the Colossians, it should also be read in the church of the Laodiceans [[Colossians 4:16]].
* `{{G4956}}` **systatikós** (of commendation): This adjective describes a specific type of letter, one that is "recommendatory." Paul asks if he needs **epistles of commendation** to the Corinthians, establishing a formal context for such letters [[2 Corinthians 3:1]].
* `{{G783}}` **aspasmós** (salutation): This refers to a greeting, which Paul identifies as a "token" in every **epistle**, authenticating the message by his own hand [[2 Thessalonians 3:17]].
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of `{{G1992}}` is demonstrated through its function in the early church.
* **Conveying Authority and Tradition:** The epistles were a medium for establishing apostolic authority and teaching. Believers were commanded to hold fast to the **traditions** they were taught, whether by spoken word or by an **epistle** [[2 Thessalonians 2:15]].
* **The Living Metaphor:** The concept of an **epistle** is elevated from a written document to a spiritual reality. The Corinthian believers are described as an **epistle** of Christ, known and **read** by all men, their lives serving as a testament written on "fleshy **tables** of the heart" [[2 Corinthians 3:2-3]].
* **Foundation of Scripture:** The apostolic **epistles** `{{G1992}}` were recognized as having divine weight. Peter refers to Paul's letters alongside "the other **scriptures**" `{{G1124}}`, indicating their acceptance as inspired writings within the early church [[2 Peter 3:16]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G1992}}` **epistolḗ** is a crucial term that encompasses more than just a simple letter. It functions as a tool for administrative authority, a primary vehicle for the transmission of apostolic doctrine, and a powerful metaphor for the life of a believer as a message from Christ to the world. Its usage shows a progression from a mundane written message to a component of holy **scripture**.
TRV