probably from the same as ἁρπάζω; properly, a headache (as a seizure of pain) from drunkenness, i.e. (by implication) a debauch (by analogy, a glut):--surfeiting.
### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **kraipálē**, represented by `{{G2897}}`, refers to **surfeiting**. It appears only **1 time** across **1 unique verse** in the Bible. The term's base definition describes a headache from drunkenness, which by implication refers to a debauch or a glut.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The sole appearance of `{{G2897}}` is in a warning to "take heed to yourselves" [[Luke 21:34]]. It is used to describe a state where hearts become **overcharged** `{{G925}}` with **surfeiting**. This condition is listed alongside **drunkenness** `{{G3178}}` and the **cares of this life** `{{G982}}`. The context warns that being weighed down by these things could cause "that day" to **come** `{{G2186}}` upon believers **unawares** `{{G160}}`.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words from its biblical context clarify the danger of **surfeiting**:
* `{{G925}}` **barýnō** (overcharge): This word means "to burden (figuratively)". In its only scriptural use, it describes how the heart can be weighed down by excess [[Luke 21:34]].
* `{{G3178}}` **méthē** (drunkenness): Defined as "an intoxicant, i.e. (by implication) intoxication," this term is used alongside **surfeiting** as a state to be avoided [[Luke 21:34]] and is listed among the works of the flesh [[Galatians 5:21]].
* `{{G3308}}` **mérimna** (care): Meaning "solicitude," this refers to worldly anxieties that can weigh down the heart [[Luke 21:34]] or "choke the word" [[Matthew 13:22]]. Believers are instructed to cast all their **care** upon God [[1 Peter 5:7]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G2897}}` is found in its specific warning against spiritual unpreparedness.
* **A Warning Against Spiritual Dulness:** The primary theological point is a caution against becoming spiritually dull. **Surfeiting**, along with drunkenness and worldly cares, leads to a heart that is **overcharged** `{{G925}}`, rendering it unable to be ready for "that day" [[Luke 21:34]].
* **The Condition of the Heart:** The use of **kraipálē** is directly linked to the state of the **heart** `{{G2588}}`. It highlights that physical indulgence has direct spiritual consequences, burdening the center of a person's thoughts and feelings.
* **Connection to Eschatology:** The warning in [[Luke 21:34]] is eschatological. The danger of **surfeiting** is that it distracts and incapacitates a person, causing the final day to come **unawares** `{{G160}}`, a theme echoed in the "sudden destruction" mentioned elsewhere [[1 Thessalonians 5:3]].
### Summary
In summary, while **kraipálē** `{{G2897}}` is a rare word, its single use carries significant weight. It defines a state of **surfeiting** that goes beyond simple overindulgence to describe a spiritual condition where the heart is burdened and unresponsive. Its placement in [[Luke 21:34]], alongside **drunkenness** `{{G3178}}` and **cares of this life** `{{G982}}`, serves as a potent warning. The term ultimately underscores the critical need for believers to remain vigilant and spiritually sober, lest they be caught unprepared.
TRV