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ἐπιγραφή

epigraphḗ

G1923 noun

SILEX Entry

Definition

Inscription or written statement placed upon or over something, typically signifying ownership, identity, dedication, or content; most often denotes a formal or official labeling placed on objects, documents, or monuments. In particular contexts, may refer to a brief explanatory or descriptive label, heading, or superscription, especially as found on coins, public decrees, or written notices.

Semantic Range

inscription, written label, title, heading, superscription, dedicatory text, epitaph, official notice

Root / Etymology

From the verb ἐπιγράφω ('to write upon' or 'to inscribe'), composed of ἐπί (upon, over) + γράφω (to write). The term is formed through the addition of the nominal suffix -ή to the verbal stem.

Historical & Contextual Notes

The noun ἐπιγραφή appears in Hellenistic and Roman-period Greek to denote any text physically written or inscribed onto an object, surface, or document—whether as a label, title, or formal inscription. In classical and later literary sources, it may refer to dedications (e.g., on votive offerings or monuments), epitaphs, or official proclamations. In the context of the New Testament (e.g., Mark 15:26; Luke 23:38), ἐπιγραφή specifically refers to the placard affixed above a condemned person on a cross, a standard Roman practice for declaring the crime or charge. The scope of ἐπιγραφή in Koine Greek overlaps with but is broader than the English term 'superscription,' which is used in several English Bible translations as a rendering; in Greek usage, it encompasses any form of written inscription regardless of its position (including titles on coins, dedications on public works, or explanatory headings). LXX usage, though rare, aligns with this broad application. The English 'inscription' is a more accurate equivalent for most contexts. Contrast with τίτλος (Lat. titulus), which in late Greek can also mean 'superscription' but with more emphasis on the idea of a title or heading. The term occurs mostly in formal or official contexts and is less common in everyday writing.

Translation Consistency

primary "inscription" 5 occurrences

ἐπιγραφή is best rendered by the noun 'inscription' because it naturally covers the typical senses (inscription, label, title, heading, superscription, dedicatory text) and is the most common, natural English equivalent; it also matches the attested renderings ("inscription" appears across the source instances).

✓ All renderings match approved senses

Original Strong's Gloss (1890)

from ἐπιγράφω; an inscription:--superscription.

Root Family

ἐπιγραφή (epigraphē) — to write upon, to inscribe, inscription, written label

Root γραφ- to write, to inscribe

Word Forms

2 distinct forms

SIDANCE Surface Transliteration Morphology Common SIBI-P1 SIBI-P2 Occurrences
G1923-01 ἐπιγραφή epigraphe N NOM F SG inscription inscription inscription 4
G1923-02 ἐπιγραφήν epigraphen N ACC F SG superscription inscription inscription 1

Occurrences in Scripture

5 occurrences

SIDANCE Reference Word Transliteration Morphology Common SIBI-P1 SIBI-P2
G1923-01 Matthew 22:20 ἐπιγραφή epigraphe N NOM F SG inscription inscription inscription
G1923-01 Mark 12:16 ἐπιγραφή epigraphe N NOM F SG inscription inscription inscription
G1923-01 Mark 15:26 ἐπιγραφὴ epigraphe N NOM F SG inscription inscription inscription
G1923-02 Luke 20:24 ἐπιγραφήν epigraphen N ACC F SG superscription inscription inscription
G1923-01 Luke 23:38 ἐπιγραφὴ epigraphe N NOM F SG inscription inscription inscription
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