### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **kopiáō**, represented by `{{G2872}}`, signifies a deep sense of fatigue that comes from hard work. It appears **28 times** across **21 unique verses** in the Bible. Its base definition is to feel fatigue; by implication, to work hard, and it is translated as to **labour**, **toil**, or be **wearied**.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In scripture, `{{G2872}}` is used to describe various forms of intense effort. It conveys the physical exhaustion of Jesus, who was **wearied** with his journey and sat by the well [[John 4:6]]. It is also used in Jesus's invitation to "all ye that **labour** and are heavy laden" to come to him for rest [[Matthew 11:28]]. The Apostle Paul uses it to describe his own tireless ministry, stating that by God's grace he **laboured** more abundantly than all the other apostles [[1 Corinthians 15:10]]. The word can also refer to manual labor, such as when Simon Peter and the disciples **toiled** all night fishing and caught nothing [[Luke 5:5]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help define the scope of strenuous effort and its results:
* `{{G75}}` **agōnízomai** (to struggle, labor fervently, strive): This term often appears with `{{G2872}}` to describe an intense, focused effort. Paul describes his ministry as a form of **labour** where he is **striving** according to God's power working in him [[Colossians 1:29]].
* `{{G2038}}` **ergázomai** (to toil, work): This word points to the act of working as a task or occupation. It is used to clarify the nature of the labor, such as when believers are encouraged to **labour**, **working** with their own hands [[Ephesians 4:28]].
* `{{G2577}}` **kámnō** (to tire, faint, be wearied): This term describes the point of giving up from exhaustion. It is used in direct connection with `{{G2872}}` to praise the church in Revelation, which had **laboured** and had not **fainted** [[Revelation 2:3]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G2872}}` is significant, highlighting the nature of Christian service and endurance.
* **The Cost of Ministry:** The word is consistently used to describe the demanding work of apostles and elders. Paul links his **labour** with suffering reproach [[1 Timothy 4:10]], and elders who **labour** in the word and doctrine are considered worthy of double honour [[1 Timothy 5:17]].
* **Purposeful Exertion vs. Vain Toil:** Paul expresses his fear that he might have bestowed **labour** in vain upon the Galatians [[Galatians 4:11]]. Conversely, his goal is to hold forth the word of life so that he has not **laboured** in vain [[Philippians 2:16]].
* **Invitation to Rest:** The concept of toiling is a prerequisite for the rest offered by Christ. The invitation in [[Matthew 11:28]] is specifically for those who **labour** and are overburdened, promising relief from their weariness.
### Summary
In summary, `{{G2872}}` illustrates a type of work that goes beyond ordinary effort to the point of exhaustion. It captures the physical weariness of human life, the strenuous dedication required for ministry, and the spiritual fatigue that Jesus offers to relieve. This word demonstrates that while the Christian life involves intense labor and striving, its ultimate foundation is not the work itself, but the grace of God that both empowers the labor and provides the final rest.
TRV