### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
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.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
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.
### Related Words & Concepts
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]].
### Theological Significance
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]].
### Summary
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