ἐπεγείρω

I arouse, stimulate, excite against

Definition

ἐπεγείρω is a verb meaning 'to arouse, stir up, or incite against.' In its two New Testament occurrences, it specifically describes the act of provoking opposition or hostility. In Acts 13:50, it refers to influential people stirring up persecution against Paul and Barnabas, leading to their expulsion from Antioch in Pisidia. In Acts 14:2, it describes unbelieving Jews agitating and poisoning the minds of Gentiles against the apostles. The word consistently carries a negative connotation of inciting a group to active, often hostile, action against someone.

Biblical Usage

This verb is used exclusively in the book of Acts to describe the instigation of opposition against the early Christian missionaries. In both occurrences (Acts 13:50 and Acts 14:2), it depicts a pattern where religious authorities or unbelievers deliberately rouse a broader populace or influential figures to reject and persecute the apostles. The usage highlights a recurring theme in Acts: the gospel message provoking intense societal and religious conflict.

Etymology

ἐπεγείρω is a compound verb formed from the preposition ἐπί (epi, 'upon' or 'against') and the verb ἐγείρω (egeirō, 'to raise up, awaken'). Literally, it means 'to raise up against.' While ἐγείρω can have neutral or positive senses (like raising from sleep or even resurrection), the addition of ἐπί gives it a hostile directional force, specifying the action as being raised *against* someone.

Semantic Range

This word is theologically significant as it captures the hostile reaction the gospel often provokes in a fallen world. It illustrates the spiritual conflict described in passages like Ephesians 6:12, showing that opposition to God's messengers is not merely personal disagreement but is often stirred and organized. Understanding this term enriches reading by highlighting the cost of discipleship and the reality of spiritual warfare faced by the early church as it faithfully proclaimed Christ.

In the Greco-Roman world, public opinion and mob action were powerful forces. 'Stirring up' a crowd, as described by ἐπεγείρω, was a recognized social and political tactic used to discredit rivals or eliminate threats. The word's usage in Acts reflects this cultural reality, showing how opponents of the apostles used established methods of social agitation to turn cities against them, which could result in expulsion, violence, or legal charges.

παροξύνω (paroxynō, G3947) — to provoke, irritate, or spur on, often with a sense of sharp agitation; can be used in a positive sense (as in 1 Corinthians 13:5). διεγείρω (diegeirō, G1326) — to stir up thoroughly or awaken; used in 2 Peter 1:13 and 3:1 in a positive sense of stirring up pure minds.

Word Details

Scripture References