ἐπικρίνω

I decree, give sentence

Definition

The verb ἐπικρίνω means to make a formal decision or pronounce a judicial sentence, carrying the sense of a definitive, authoritative ruling. In its single New Testament occurrence in Luke 23:24, it describes Pontius Pilate 'giving sentence' or 'decreing' that the demand of the crowd for Jesus's crucifixion should be granted. This usage aligns with its broader sense in ancient Greek of delivering a verdict or making a final determination in a matter of judgment. The word implies an exercise of authority to settle a dispute or case.

Biblical Usage

ἐπικρίνω is used only once in the New Testament, in Luke 23:24, within the narrative of Jesus's trial before Pontius Pilate. The context is explicitly judicial and political, describing the Roman governor's official pronouncement to grant the crowd's demand for crucifixion. This singular usage highlights a moment of formal, authoritative decision-making by a governing official, emphasizing the legal and binding nature of the verdict passed on Jesus.

Etymology

ἐπικρίνω is a compound verb formed from the preposition ἐπί (epi, meaning 'upon' or 'over') and the root verb κρίνω (krinō, G2919), which means 'to judge,' 'decide,' or 'separate.' The prefix ἐπί intensifies or specifies the action, giving the sense of 'judging upon' a matter, thus leading to meanings like 'decree,' 'give sentence,' or 'determine authoritatively.' It shares its core concept of judgment with its root, krinō.

Semantic Range

Though used only once, ἐπικρίνω is theologically significant as it captures the moment of Pilate's official judicial sentence against Jesus, a pivotal act in the Passion narrative. This 'decree' sets in motion the crucifixion, central to Christian understanding of atonement and sacrifice. The word underscores the theme of human judicial authority being wielded unjustly, contrasting with God's ultimate judgment and vindication through the resurrection. Understanding this Greek term enriches reading by highlighting the formal, legal weight of Pilate's action in Luke's account.

In the Greco-Roman world, ἐπικρίνω conveyed the idea of an authoritative, often official, pronouncement or verdict, especially in legal or governmental contexts. Pilate's use of the term in Luke 23:24 reflects his role as a Roman governor with the imperium to render final legal judgments. The cultural understanding involves the power of a magistrate to settle disputes or condemn, differing from a modern informal 'decision' by carrying the full weight of state authority and often irreversible consequences.

κρίνω (krinō, G2919) — The root verb meaning 'to judge' or 'decide,' a broader term for making a judgment. δικαιόω (dikaioō, G1344) — Means 'to justify' or 'declare righteous,' focusing on a favorable legal verdict. κατακρίνω (katakrinō, G2632) — Means 'to condemn,' a stronger, negative judgment leading to punishment.

Word Details

Scripture References