from ἐπιστρέφω; reversion, i.e. morally, revolution:--conversion.
Transliteration:epistrophḗ
Pronunciation:ep-is-trof-ay'
Detailed Word Study
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek noun epistrophḗ (G1995) is derived directly from the verb epistrephō (`{{G1994}}`), which signifies "to turn back," "to turn around," or "to return." Consequently, epistrophḗ inherently conveys the sense of a decisive "turning" or "reversion." Its core meaning in the biblical context is a moral or spiritual revolution, specifically "conversion." This implies a fundamental reorientation of one's life, a turning *from* a former way of existence *to* a new direction. It is not merely a superficial adjustment but a profound change of allegiance and purpose. While often used interchangeably with metanoia (`{{G3341}}`, repentance), epistrophḗ describes the *act* or *result* of turning, whereas metanoia focuses on the internal change of mind that precedes or accompanies this turning.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The noun epistrophḗ appears infrequently in the New Testament, yet its two occurrences are highly significant, both found in the Book of Acts:
1. **[[Acts 15:3]]**: "So, being sent on their way by the church, they passed through both Phoenicia and Samaria, describing the conversion of the Gentiles, and bringing great joy to all the brethren."
In this pivotal verse, epistrophḗ describes the widespread turning of non-Jews to faith in Christ. Paul and Barnabas are reporting to the church in Jerusalem on the outcome of their missionary journey. The "conversion of the Gentiles" (τὴν ἐπιστροφὴν τῶν ἐθνῶν) signifies a momentous historical and theological development, demonstrating God's inclusive plan of salvation extending beyond Israel. This epistrophḗ represents a collective shift from paganism and idolatry to worship of the one true God, marked by belief in Jesus as Messiah. It is presented as a cause for great joy among the believers, underscoring its profound positive impact.
2. **[[Acts 15:3]]** (as above): The singular usage emphasizes the singular, decisive nature of this turning. It is not merely a series of individual events but a unified movement of God's Spirit.
While the noun is rare, the verb epistrephō (`{{G1994}}`) is far more common and illuminates the dynamic process that epistrophḗ encapsulates. For example, in [[Acts 11:21]], "a great number believed and turned to the Lord," illustrating the act of turning. Similarly, [[Acts 14:15]] speaks of turning "from these useless things to the living God," highlighting the object of this turning.
### Related Words & Concepts
The semantic field surrounding epistrophḗ includes several crucial theological terms:
* **epistrephō (`{{G1994}}`)**: The foundational verb meaning "to turn back" or "to return." This verb is frequently used to describe the act of turning to God, from sin, or from idols (e.g., [[Acts 9:35]], [[Acts 26:20]], [[1 Peter 2:25]]). The noun epistrophḗ is the outcome or state of this turning.
* **metanoia (`{{G3341}}`)** and **metanoeō (`{{G3340}}`)**: Repentance, a change of mind. While metanoia is the internal cognitive and volitional shift, epistrophḗ is the outward manifestation or the actual reorientation of life that results from such a change of mind. They are intrinsically linked, with true repentance leading to conversion.
* **pisteuō (`{{G4100}}`)** and **pistis (`{{G4102}}`)**: To believe and faith. Conversion (epistrophḗ) is fundamentally a turning *in faith* to God. It is through faith that one embraces the new direction offered by the Gospel.
* **sōtēria (`{{G4991}}`)**: Salvation. Conversion is the decisive step on the path to salvation.
* **Old Testament shuv (`{{H7725}}`)**: The Hebrew verb shuv, meaning "to return" or "to turn back," carries a profound theological weight in the Old Testament, frequently used by prophets to call Israel to "return" to Yahweh from their idolatry and disobedience. epistrophḗ in the New Testament serves as a theological parallel, extending this call to both Jews and Gentiles to turn to the Lord Jesus Christ.
### Theological Significance
epistrophḗ holds profound theological significance as it encapsulates the decisive spiritual transformation at the heart of the Christian experience.
1. **Radical Reorientation**: It signifies a complete turning away from a former life of sin, self-reliance, or idolatry, and a turning towards God in Christ. This is not a mere behavioral modification but a fundamental shift in allegiance, purpose, and direction for one's entire being.
2. **Divine Initiative and Human Response**: While conversion is ultimately a work of God's grace and the Holy Spirit, epistrophḗ emphasizes the necessary human response – an active turning. It is the human side of the divine-human encounter in salvation.
3. **Core of the Gospel Message**: The call to epistrophḗ is central to the apostolic preaching. As seen in Acts, the apostles proclaimed a message that led to people "turning to the Lord." This turning is the immediate and expected outcome of hearing and believing the Gospel.
4. **Inclusivity of Salvation**: The specific mention of the "conversion of the Gentiles" in [[Acts 15:3]] highlights God's universal redemptive plan. epistrophḗ is not limited to a particular ethnic group but is a universal call for all humanity to turn to God.
5. **Foundation for Discipleship**: Conversion is the starting point for the Christian life. It is the moment of entry into a relationship with God, initiating a journey of discipleship, sanctification, and growth in Christ.
### Summary
The Greek word epistrophḗ (G1995) denotes a profound "turning back" or "turning around," specifically referring to a moral and spiritual "conversion." Though appearing only twice in the New Testament, notably in [[Acts 15:3]] describing the "conversion of the Gentiles," its significance is immense. Derived from the verb epistrephō (`{{G1994}}`), it represents the decisive act of reorientation towards God, intrinsically linked with metanoia (`{{G3341}}`, repentance) and pistis (`{{G4102}}`, faith). Theologically, epistrophḗ embodies the radical shift from a life alienated from God to one aligned with Him, marking a fundamental change of allegiance and purpose. It is a cornerstone of the Gospel message and a foundational element of the Christian experience, demonstrating God's universal call to all humanity to return to Him through faith in Jesus Christ.
TRV