### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek noun ἔπος (épos, `{{G2031}}`) fundamentally denotes "a word," "an utterance," or "speech." It derives from the verb ἔπω (epō, `{{G2036}}`), meaning "to speak" or "to say," thereby emphasizing its direct connection to the act of verbal communication. Unlike λόγος (logos, `{{G3056}}`), which carries a broader semantic range encompassing reason, discourse, and the divine Word, ἔπος tends to refer more specifically to the spoken utterance itself, a "saying." It is also distinct from ῥῆμα (rhēma, `{{G4487}}`), which often denotes a specific, active, or divinely inspired word, whereas ἔπος can describe a more general statement or a common saying. Its core meaning thus centers on the content of what is spoken, a verbal expression.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The term ἔπος (épos, `{{G2031}}`) appears only once in the New Testament, found in the Epistle to the Hebrews:
* **Hebrews 7:9**: "And, so to speak, through Abraham even Levi, who receives tithes, paid tithes." The phrase in question is "καὶ ὡς ἔπος εἰπεῖν" (kai hōs epos eipein), which translates idiomatically as "and so to speak," "and, so to say," or "one might even say."
In this sole occurrence, ἔπος functions within a parenthetical, rhetorical device. The author of Hebrews is arguing for the superiority of the Melchizedekian priesthood over the Levitical priesthood. The point is that Levi, though not yet born, was "in the loins of his father" Abraham when Abraham paid tithes to Melchizedek. Therefore, Levi, by proxy, also paid tithes to Melchizedek, demonstrating Melchizedek's greater authority. The phrase "ὡς ἔπος εἰπεῖν" serves to qualify the statement, indicating that the author is using a figurative or summary expression, acknowledging that Levi did not literally pay tithes himself but did so representatively through his ancestor. It is a linguistic softener, signaling that the statement is a conceptual or rhetorical truth rather than a direct historical action. This idiomatic use highlights the author's careful and precise articulation of a complex theological argument, even when employing figurative language.
### Related Words & Concepts
The understanding of ἔπος (épos, `{{G2031}}`) is enriched by examining its relationship to other Greek terms related to speech and communication:
* **ἔπω (epō, `{{G2036}}`)**: As the root verb, meaning "to speak" or "to say," it directly informs the meaning of ἔπος. This connection underscores that ἔπος is inherently about the act and product of vocalization.
* **λόγος (logos, `{{G3056}}`)**: While both can be translated "word," λόγος has a much broader semantic field, encompassing reason, thought, discourse, message, and even the divine Word (Christ). ἔπος is a more specific term for a spoken utterance, often lacking the philosophical or theological depth that λόγος can carry.
* **ῥῆμα (rhēma, `{{G4487}}`)**: This term also means "word" or "saying," often emphasizing a specific, distinct, or active utterance. While ἔπος and ῥῆμα are closely related in meaning, ἔπος in its New Testament usage is particularly tied to the idiomatic expression "so to speak," indicating a general utterance or statement rather than a specific divine pronouncement or command often associated with ῥῆμα.
* **φωνή (phōnē, `{{G5456}}`)**: Meaning "voice" or "sound," φωνή relates to the physical act of producing sound, which carries a "word" (ἔπος).
These related terms collectively illustrate the rich vocabulary available in Greek to describe various aspects of verbal communication, from the physical act of speaking to the content and nature of the spoken word itself.
### Theological Significance
Due to its singular, idiomatic occurrence in the New Testament, ἔπος (épos, `{{G2031}}`) does not carry a direct, profound theological significance as a standalone concept. Its theological importance is primarily indirect and lies in what its usage reveals about biblical communication and theological argumentation.
Firstly, its presence, even as part of a rhetorical idiom, underscores the critical role of *speech* and *utterance* in God's revelation and human understanding. The Bible is a collection of words, God's self-disclosure often comes through spoken pronouncements, and human response is frequently articulated through verbal confession and praise. Even a seemingly minor word like ἔπος subtly points to the fundamental nature of verbal communication in the divine-human encounter.
Secondly, the specific use of "ὡς ἔπος εἰπεῖν" in Hebrews 7:9 highlights the nuanced and careful use of language in conveying complex theological truths. The author is making a profound theological point about the superiority of Christ's priesthood, and even when employing a figurative argument (Levi paying tithes through Abraham), the author uses a linguistic device to clarify the nature of the statement. This demonstrates an academic precision in biblical scholarship, where authors are mindful of how their words are received and understood, even when making figurative or summary statements. It suggests that even rhetorical flourishes are carefully chosen to advance theological understanding, reminding us that every "word" (even an ἔπος) in Scripture is purposeful.
### Summary
The Greek word ἔπος (épos, `{{G2031}}`) signifies "a word" or "an utterance," stemming from the verb "to speak." Its primary New Testament significance is found in its sole occurrence in [[Hebrews 7:9]], where it forms part of the idiomatic phrase "ὡς ἔπος εἰπεῖν," meaning "so to speak" or "so to say." In this context, it functions as a rhetorical qualifier, indicating that the preceding statement about Levi paying tithes through Abraham is a figurative or summary representation rather than a literal, direct action. While not a central theological term in itself, its presence underscores the meticulous and nuanced use of language by biblical authors in constructing theological arguments. It subtly points to the foundational importance of speech and verbal articulation in divine revelation and the careful communication of spiritual truths.
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