### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **epistréphō**, represented by `{{G1994}}`, means **to revert**, **convert**, or **turn**. It is formed from the words ἐπί and στρέφω and appears 44 times across 38 unique verses in the Bible. Its usage covers both literal physical turning and the profound moral and spiritual act of turning back to God.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In Scripture, `{{G1994}}` is used to describe a range of actions from the simple to the spiritually significant. It can denote a literal physical act, as when Jesus **turned him about** to address the woman who was healed [[Matthew 9:22]] or when the Apostle John **turned** to see the voice speaking to him [[Revelation 1:12]]. More frequently, it signifies a moral or spiritual conversion. Paul's commission from God was to **turn** people from darkness to light and from the power of Satan to God [[Acts 26:18]]. This includes turning from false worship, as when the Thessalonians **turned** to God from idols [[1 Thessalonians 1:9]], and turning away from sinful ways, as when a believer helps to **convert** a sinner from the error of his way [[James 5:20]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related Greek words help clarify the meaning and context of `{{G1994}}`:
* `{{G3340}}` **metanoéō** (to repent): This word means to think differently or reconsider, often used alongside `{{G1994}}` to describe the internal change of heart that accompanies the external act of turning. Peter urges the people to **repent** and be **converted** [[Acts 3:19]].
* `{{G4105}}` **planáō** (to go astray): This term describes the state of wandering from truth or safety from which a person must turn. Believers are described as formerly being like sheep **going astray** before they **returned** to the Shepherd of their souls [[1 Peter 2:25]].
* `{{G2390}}` **iáomai** (to heal): This word is often linked to the result of conversion. In several passages, hardened hearts prevent people from being **converted** so that God could **heal** them [[John 12:40]], showing that spiritual turning opens the door to divine restoration.
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of `{{G1994}}` is central to the concept of salvation and a relationship with God.
* **A Fundamental Change of Allegiance:** To **turn** or be **converted** is to change one's ultimate loyalty. It involves moving from the **power** `{{G1849}}` of **Satan** `{{G4567}}` to **God** `{{G2316}}`, from **darkness** `{{G4655}}` to **light** `{{G5457}}` [[Acts 26:18]], and from worthless **idols** `{{G1497}}` to serve the **living God** `{{G2198}}` [[1 Thessalonians 1:9]].
* **The Prerequisite for Forgiveness:** The act of turning to God is directly connected to receiving pardon for sin. Peter preaches that if the people repent and are **converted**, their sins may be **blotted out** `{{G1813}}` [[Acts 3:19]]. Conversely, Jesus notes that some do not **understand** `{{G4920}}` lest they should be **converted** and their sins be **forgiven** `{{G863}}` [[Mark 4:12]].
* **Restoration to God's Care:** The word conveys a return to a proper state. In [[1 Peter 2:25]], believers who were going astray have **returned** to the care of their **Shepherd** `{{G4166}}` and **Bishop** `{{G1985}}`. This act of turning saves a soul from **death** `{{G2288}}` [[James 5:20]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G1994}}` is a dynamic word that captures the essence of conversion. While it can mean a simple physical turn, its theological weight points to a complete reorientation of a person's life. It is a conscious decision to turn away from sin, error, and false gods and to turn toward the one true God. This act of turning is presented as essential for receiving forgiveness, healing, and restoration to a right relationship with the Creator.
TRV