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ἐπιπλήσσω

epiplḗssō

G1969 verb

SILEX Entry

Definition

To strike upon, to reproach with words or to rebuke. In primary usage, denoting the act of striking upon, either physically or, more frequently in Hellenistic Greek, with words—i.e., to sharply criticize, censure, or reprove. In New Testament usage, used metaphorically of scolding, reproving, or rebuking someone for perceived fault or error.

Semantic Range

to strike upon, to chastise, to scold, to reproach, to rebuke, to reprove, to censure

Root / Etymology

From ἐπί (upon, on) and πλησσω (to strike, smite). The compound thus literally means 'to strike upon.'

Historical & Contextual Notes

Attested in classical Greek with the force of a literal physical blow, but by Hellenistic and Koine periods, the word is overwhelmingly found in metaphorical contexts, most often for verbal reprimand or censure. In the New Testament (e.g. Luke 17:3), ἐπιπλήσσω appears in the sense of rebuking or reproving someone who has sinned or erred. The term is not common outside of biblical and early Christian Greek, and when used, generally involves strong disapproval and the intent to correct. English translations frequently render it as 'rebuke,' 'reprove,' or 'scold,' but the nuance may range from stern reprimand to harsh criticism. In contrast to related terms like ἐλέγχω (to expose, to bring to light with the aim of correction), ἐπιπλήσσω carries a more immediate, striking force, whether verbal or figurative.

Original Strong's Gloss (1890)

from ἐπί and πλήσσω; to chastise, i.e. (with words) to upbraid:--rebuke.

Root Family

ἐπιπλήσσω (epiplēssō) — to strike, to hit, to chastise, to rebuke

Root πλησ- to strike, to hit, to chastise

Word Forms

1 distinct form

SIDANCE Surface Transliteration Morphology Common SIBI-P1 SIBI-P2 Occurrences
G1969-01 ἐπιπλήξῃς epiplexes V AOR ACT SUBJ 2P SG sharply rebuke you should strike upon rebuke 1

Occurrences in Scripture

1 occurrence

SIDANCE Reference Word Transliteration Morphology Common SIBI-P1 SIBI-P2
G1969-01 1 Timothy 5:1 ἐπιπλήξῃς epiplexes V AOR ACT SUBJ 2P SG sharply rebuke you should strike upon rebuke
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