a form of ἐπιφαύω; to begin to grow light:--begin to dawn, X draw on.
Transliteration:epiphṓskō
Pronunciation:ep-ee-foce'-ko
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek verb epiphōskō (`{{G2020}}`) derives from epiphauō (though epiphauō itself is not a distinct Strong's entry, it points to the root phōs `{{G5457}}`, meaning "light," combined with the prefix epi-, denoting "upon" or "at"). Its core meaning is to "begin to grow light," "to dawn," or "to draw on" in the sense of a new day or period commencing. The semantic range is primarily temporal, marking the transition from darkness to light, or the *incipience* of a new period. It signifies the very first appearance of light, not the full brightness of day, emphasizing a nascent or emerging state.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
Epiphōskō (`{{G2020}}`) appears twice in the New Testament, both instances marking significant temporal transitions:
1. **[[Matthew 28:1]]**: "Now after the Sabbath, as it began to dawn toward the first day of the week, Mary Magdalene and the other Mary came to see the tomb." This is the most profound occurrence. The word precisely situates the moment of the women's arrival at the tomb—the very cusp of the new day, Sunday morning. This "dawning" is immediately followed by the earthquake, the angelic appearance, and the announcement of Christ's resurrection. The literal dawning of the day here powerfully prefigures the spiritual dawning of a new creation and the revelation of Christ's triumph over death. It is the breaking of a new era, marked by divine light.
2. **[[Luke 23:54]]**: "And that day was the Preparation, and the Sabbath drew on." Here, epiphōskō describes the approach of the Sabbath, following the crucifixion and burial of Jesus. In the Jewish reckoning, a new day began at sunset. Thus, "the Sabbath drew on" signifies the onset of the Sabbath day as the day of Preparation was concluding. While Matthew's usage points to the literal sunrise, Luke's context refers to the *beginning* of the Sabbath day, which commenced at the previous evening's twilight. In both instances, however, epiphōskō denotes the *beginning* of a new period of time, whether from darkness to light (Matthew) or from one day to the next (Luke).
### Related Words & Concepts
The primary conceptual link for epiphōskō (`{{G2020}}`) is with phōs (`{{G5457}}`), "light," and its derivatives, such as phainō (`{{G5316}}`), "to shine" or "to appear." The antithesis to phōs is skotos (`{{G4655}}`), "darkness." The word is intrinsically tied to hēmera (`{{G2250}}`), "day," as it describes the commencement of a new day. Conceptually, epiphōskō evokes ideas of new beginnings, revelation, the breaking forth of truth, and the transition from one state or period to another. It carries connotations of hope and divine timing, particularly when contrasted with preceding periods of darkness or sorrow.
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of epiphōskō (`{{G2020}}`) is most profoundly felt in [[Matthew 28:1]]. The "dawning" of the first day of the week is not merely a temporal marker but a theological statement. It is the dawn of the resurrection, the moment when the light of Christ's victory over death begins to illuminate the world. This dawning symbolizes the inauguration of the new creation, the fulfillment of prophecies, and the beginning of the new covenant age. Just as physical light dispels darkness, the resurrection of Christ dispels the spiritual darkness of sin and death, bringing forth life and hope. The word underscores the divine precision and timing of God's redemptive plan. In [[Luke 23:54]], the "dawning" of the Sabbath, while marking a period of solemn rest and quietude after the crucifixion, still points to the divinely appointed progression of events leading to the ultimate dawn of resurrection. It highlights the sacred rhythm of God's calendar and the unfolding of His purposes.
### Summary
Epiphōskō (`{{G2020}}`) signifies the beginning of light or the commencement of a new day or period. Its two occurrences in the New Testament are highly significant: in [[Matthew 28:1]], it marks the pivotal moment of the resurrection dawn, symbolizing new creation, victory over darkness, and the inauguration of a new spiritual age. In [[Luke 23:54]], it denotes the onset of the Sabbath, emphasizing divine timing and the transition into a sacred period. The word, though appearing infrequently, carries profound theological weight, underscoring God's precise timing in bringing forth light, hope, and new beginnings in His redemptive plan.
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