ἐπαίρω

I raise, lift up

Definition

The Greek verb ἐπαίρω (epairō) primarily means 'to lift up' or 'to raise.' In a literal, physical sense, it describes the action of lifting one's eyes (John 4:35), hands (Luke 24:50), or head (Luke 21:28). Figuratively, it carries the sense of exalting or promoting someone, as seen when the rich man in Hades 'lifted up' his eyes in torment (Luke 16:23). In a negative, spiritual sense, it can mean to be arrogant or 'lifted up' with pride, as implied in the parable of the Pharisee and the tax collector (Luke 18:13).

Biblical Usage

ἐπαίρω is used 19 times in the New Testament, predominantly in the Gospels of Luke and John. It appears in diverse contexts: literal actions (lifting eyes, hands, head), emotional or spiritual states (lifting eyes in distress or hope), and metaphorical exaltation. A key pattern is its use in significant moments of revelation or prayer, such as Jesus lifting His hands to bless the disciples at the Ascension (Luke 24:50) and His instruction to 'lift up' your eyes to see the spiritual harvest (John 4:35).

Etymology

Derived from the preposition ἐπί (epi, 'upon') and the verb αἴρω (airō, 'to lift, take up'). The compound form intensifies the base meaning, emphasizing the act of lifting something up or raising it to a higher position. Its core sense of physical elevation naturally extended to metaphorical uses of exaltation and pride.

Semantic Range

This word is theologically significant as it bridges physical action and spiritual posture. Literally lifting one's eyes or hands often precedes a divine encounter or pronouncement (Luke 21:28, John 4:35). Its negative connotation of being 'lifted up' in pride (Luke 18:13) contrasts sharply with the biblical call for humility. Understanding ἐπαίρω enriches reading by highlighting how physical gestures of looking up or raising hands are connected to attitudes of hope, expectation, dependence on God, or dangerous self-exaltation.

In the ancient Mediterranean world, gestures like lifting one's eyes or hands were deeply meaningful public acts of prayer, blessing, or supplication. Lifting the eyes to heaven was a common posture for prayer, signaling a turn from earthly concerns to the divine. The negative sense of being 'lifted up' would resonate in an honor-shame culture where arrogant self-promotion was a serious social and moral failing.

αἴρω (airō, G142) — A simpler base verb meaning 'to lift, take up, carry away'; ἐπαίρω adds the nuance of lifting 'up' or 'upon.' ὑψόω (hypsoō, G5312) — Means 'to exalt, lift high,' often used for spiritual exaltation (e.g., of Christ) rather than a physical gesture. ἐγείρω (egeirō, G1453) — Primarily 'to raise up, awaken,' frequently used for resurrection or rousing someone from sleep.

Word Details

Scripture References