from εὖ and a derivative of a presumed compound of περί and ἵστημι; well standing around, i.e. (a competitor) thwarting (a racer) in every direction (figuratively, of sin in genitive case):--which doth so easily beset.
Transliteration:euperístatos
Pronunciation:yoo-per-is'-tat-os
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word εὐπερίστατος (euperístatos, `{{G2139}}`) is a compound adjective derived from three elements: εὖ (eu, "well" or "easily"), περί (peri, "around"), and ἵστημι (histēmi, "to stand"). Etymologically, it conveys the sense of "well-standing around" or "easily surrounding." The base definition provided elucidates its figurative application, particularly in an athletic context: "a competitor thwarting (a racer) in every direction." This imagery suggests something that is not merely present but actively encircles, impedes, and entangles, making progress difficult. The English translation "which doth so easily beset" (KJV) captures this nuance, emphasizing not that the sin is easy to commit, but rather that it is pervasive, persistent, and readily wraps itself around the individual, hindering their spiritual journey. Its semantic range thus points to an insidious, encompassing, and obstructive quality.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The term εὐπερίστατος (euperístatos, `{{G2139}}`) appears uniquely in the New Testament within the epistle to the Hebrews, specifically in [[Hebrews 12:1]]. The verse reads: "Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles, and let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us" (NIV, similar to KJV "doth so easily beset").
In this context, the author employs a vivid athletic metaphor, portraying the Christian life as a race. Believers are exhorted to "lay aside every weight" (πάντα ὄγκον, panta ogkon, `{{G3591}}`, every encumbrance or burden) and "the sin which doth so easily beset us." The parallelism between "weight" and "sin" is crucial. While "weights" might refer to anything that hinders, such as worldly cares or unnecessary burdens, the "sin that so easily entangles" points to a specific, pervasive spiritual impediment. This is not just any sin, but one that is particularly adept at surrounding, clinging to, and hindering the runner. It suggests a sin that is persistent, difficult to shake off, and capable of wrapping itself around the believer's spiritual stride, impeding their progress in the race of faith. The Greek word intensifies the idea of entanglement, implying a sin that is not merely committed but one that has a strong, pervasive hold, making it challenging to break free and run unhindered.
### Related Words & Concepts
The concept of sin itself is central, with terms like `{{G266}}` (hamartia, "sin" as missing the mark), `{{G3900}}` (paraptoma, "trespass" or "fall"), and `{{G4588}}` (anomia, "lawlessness") broadly defining transgression. However, εὐπερίστατος adds a unique dimension to the nature of sin, describing its *effect* and *method* of hindrance rather than just its act.
In the athletic metaphor of Hebrews 12, εὐπερίστατος is closely related to "weights" (ὄγκον, ogkon, `{{G3591}}`), both representing impediments to the spiritual race. The call to "lay aside" (ἀποθέμενοι, apothemenoi) these hindrances resonates with other New Testament exhortations to "put off" the old self and its sinful practices (e.g., [[Ephesians 4:22]], [[Colossians 3:8]]).
The idea of being "beset" or "entangled" also connects to concepts of spiritual bondage or snares, as seen with terms like παγίς (pagis, `{{G3803}}`, "snare" or "trap"). While not directly synonymous, the imagery of being caught or hindered by an external force or internal inclination is common. The component parts of εὐπερίστατος also bear significance: εὖ (eu) often denotes "good" or "well," which here is ironically applied to something detrimental, highlighting sin's deceptive prowess. περί (peri) emphasizes the encircling, pervasive nature, while ἵστημι (histēmi) suggests a persistent or established presence.
### Theological Significance
The unique use of εὐπερίστατος in [[Hebrews 12:1]] carries profound theological weight. It reveals a crucial aspect of the spiritual struggle: sin is not merely a series of isolated acts but can become a pervasive, entangling force that actively impedes a believer's walk with God. The imagery of a "sin that so easily entangles" underscores sin's insidious nature—it wraps itself around the individual, hindering their progress in the divine race. This highlights the ongoing need for vigilance and active resistance against its pervasive influence.
The passage implicitly acknowledges the reality of spiritual warfare and the internal battle against sin's power. The command to "lay aside" this sin is a call to intentional, disciplined effort on the part of the believer, emphasizing human responsibility in sanctification. Yet, this effort is not in isolation but within the context of a "cloud of witnesses" and, crucially, with eyes fixed on Jesus, "the pioneer and perfecter of faith" ([[Hebrews 12:2]]). Christ's perfect race and endurance become the ultimate model and source of strength for overcoming the entangling sin. Thus, the concept of εὐπερίστατος underscores both the gravity of sin's hindering power and the imperative for believers to actively pursue freedom and perseverance through Christ.
### Summary
The Greek word εὐπερίστατος (euperístatos, `{{G2139}}`) literally means "well-standing around" or "easily surrounding." Its sole New Testament occurrence in [[Hebrews 12:1]] uses it figuratively within an athletic metaphor to describe "the sin that so easily entangles" or "besets." This term portrays sin not merely as an action but as a pervasive, insidious force that wraps itself around the believer, hindering their spiritual progress in the Christian race. It emphasizes sin's persistent and obstructive nature, acting as a spiritual impediment that must be actively "laid aside." The theological significance lies in its highlighting the ongoing struggle against sin's entangling power, the call for believer discipline, and the ultimate reliance on Christ as the perfect example and enabler for running the race of faith with perseverance.
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