The Greek word epichéō, represented by G2022, means to pour upon or pour in. It is formed from the words ἐπί (epí), meaning "upon," and another root word meaning "to pour." This specific term appears only 1 time in 1 unique verse in the Bible, making its single usage highly significant.
The sole appearance of G2022 is in the Parable of the Good Samaritan Luke 10:34. In this narrative, the Samaritan tends to a wounded man by the roadside. The text states he "bound up his wounds, pouring in oil and wine." This action is a central part of the compassionate care shown, where the Samaritan uses his own provisions to treat the man's injuries G5134 before taking him to an inn G3829 to recover.
Several related words from this passage enrich the meaning of the action:
- G5134 traûma (a wound): This is the direct recipient of the action of "pouring in." The presence of wounds necessitates this act of healing and care.
- G1637 élaion (olive oil): This is one of the substances poured into the wounds. Oil was used for soothing and healing, and is mentioned in contexts of anointing for gladness Hebrews 1:9 and for the sick James 5:14.
- G3631 oînos (wine): The second substance poured into the wounds, likely used for cleansing. Wine appears elsewhere in scripture both literally and figuratively, sometimes representing God's wrath Revelation 14:10 or as something to be used with moderation Ephesians 5:18.
- G2611 katadéō (to tie down, i.e. bandage (a wound)): This action immediately follows the pouring, completing the initial treatment. The two verbs together describe a complete process of cleaning and dressing a wound Luke 10:34.
The theological weight of G2022 is found entirely within its context of active mercy.
- Practical Compassion: The act of "pouring in" is not a distant or abstract form of kindness; it is a hands-on, direct application of aid. It exemplifies the practical love for one's neighbor that the parable teaches, as the Samaritan personally "took care" G1959 of the man.
- Healing and Restoration: The use of oil G1637 and wine G3631 symbolizes healing. This physical restoration points to a broader spiritual theme of God's desire to heal His people, a purpose for which Christ was sent Luke 4:18. The goodness of God is what leads people to repentance and restoration Romans 2:4.
- Costly Sacrifice: The Samaritan pours out his own G2398 oil and wine and places the man on his own G2398 beast Luke 10:34. This mirrors the nature of divine love, which is sacrificial, as when God did not spare "his own Son, but delivered him up for us all" Romans 8:32.
In summary, while epichéō G2022 is one of the rarest words in the New Testament, its single use provides a powerful and memorable image. It encapsulates the essence of the Good Samaritan's actions: direct, costly, and compassionate care. The word moves beyond a simple definition of "pouring" to become a symbol of active mercy and the physical demonstration of selfless love.
TRV