ἐπίλυσις

solution, explanation, interpretation

Definition

The noun ἐπίλυσις (epilysis) means 'a loosening, untying, or release,' and by extension, 'a solution, explanation, or interpretation.' It carries the core idea of resolving something that is bound, complex, or unclear. In its sole New Testament occurrence in 2 Peter 1:20, it specifically refers to the 'interpretation' or 'unraveling' of prophetic scripture, indicating the process of making its meaning clear. The word can imply both the act of interpreting and the resulting explanation itself.

Biblical Usage

This word is used only once in the New Testament, in 2 Peter 1:20. Here, it is used in a specific doctrinal context about the nature of biblical prophecy. The verse states that 'no prophecy of Scripture comes from someone's own interpretation (ἐπίλυσις),' emphasizing that prophetic messages are not of human origin or subject to private, arbitrary explanation. Its usage is entirely focused on the interpretation of divine revelation.

Etymology

Derived from the preposition ἐπί (epi, meaning 'upon' or 'over') combined with the root λύσις (lysis, from λύω, 'to loose, untie, or release'). Literally, it means 'a loosing upon' something. This construction vividly pictures the act of 'untying' a knot or solving a puzzle, which naturally extended to the metaphorical sense of explaining or interpreting a difficult text or problem.

Semantic Range

ἐπίλυσις is theologically significant as it directly addresses the authority and origin of biblical interpretation. In 2 Peter 1:20, it underscores that Scripture is not a matter of personal, subjective opinion ('private interpretation,' KJV). Instead, true understanding comes from God, as the following verse (2 Peter 1:21) explains that prophecy came from the Holy Spirit. This word reinforces the doctrine of the Bible's divine inspiration and the need for Spirit-led, communal understanding rather than individualistic speculation.

In the Greco-Roman world, the concept of 'interpretation' (ἐπίλυσις) was crucial in contexts like explaining oracles, dreams, philosophical texts, and legal documents. The term's connection to 'untying' reflects a common metaphor for solving riddles or explaining obscure sayings. Peter's use of this term would resonate with readers familiar with the need for expert interpretation of sacred or cryptic texts, but he redirects that authority away from human experts to the divine source of the prophecy itself.

ἑρμηνεία (hermēneia, G2058) — focuses more on the act of translating or explaining meaning, often of languages. διήγησις (diēgēsis, G1335) — a narrative or detailed account, less about solving and more about recounting. ἐξήγησις (exēgēsis, G1834) — a detailed explanation or exposition, often of a text.

Word Details

Scripture References