ἐπαναπαύομαι

I rest upon, rely on, trust in

Definition

The verb ἐπαναπαύομαι means to rest upon, rely on, or trust in someone or something. It conveys the idea of settling one's confidence or dependence on a person or object, often implying a sense of security and support. In Luke 10:6, it describes peace 'resting' upon a worthy household, suggesting a blessing that comes to reside there. In Romans 2:17, Paul uses it to critique those who 'rely on' the law and boast in God, indicating a misplaced confidence in their religious status.

Biblical Usage

This word is used only twice in the New Testament, in distinct contexts. In Luke 10:6, it is part of Jesus's instructions to the seventy-two disciples, describing a blessing of peace that actively comes to 'rest upon' a receptive home. In Romans 2:17, it is used in a polemical context, where Paul addresses a Jewish interlocutor who 'relies on' the law, highlighting a confidence in religious privilege that does not translate into obedience. Both uses involve a personal or communal reliance on an external source—either divine blessing or religious law.

Etymology

Derived from the preposition ἐπί (epi, 'upon') combined with the verb ἀναπαύω (anapauō, 'to cause to rest, refresh'). The compound form intensifies the sense of resting *upon* something. The root ἀναπαύω itself is common, meaning to give rest or cease from labor. Thus, ἐπαναπαύομαι carries the nuanced idea of settling one's rest or confidence upon a specific foundation.

Semantic Range

This word is theologically significant as it touches on the themes of divine blessing and human trust. In Luke 10:6, it illustrates how God's peace actively takes up residence with receptive people, emphasizing grace. In Romans 2:17, it exposes the danger of trusting in religious identity or law-possession rather than in God Himself, a key point in Paul's argument about justification by faith. Understanding this Greek term enriches reading by clarifying that true 'resting upon' must be directed toward God and His grace, not merely external religious markers.

In the Greco-Roman world, the concept of 'resting upon' could imply patronage or seeking refuge, which aligns with the biblical usage of seeking security. The Jewish context in Romans involves reliance on the Torah and covenantal identity as markers of divine favor, which Paul reinterprets. The word's use in a blessing formula (Luke 10:6) also resonates with cultural practices of invoking peace upon a household.

πιστεύω (pisteuō, G4100) — a broader term for believing or having faith, while ἐπαναπαύομαι specifies resting one's confidence upon something. ἐλπίζω (elpizō, G1679) — to hope or expect, focusing on future anticipation, whereas ἐπαναπαύομαι can imply a present settled reliance. πεποίθησις (pepoithēsis, G4006) — a noun meaning confidence or trust, often used similarly for reliance on God or flesh.

Word Details

Scripture References