ἐπιμελέομαι

I take care of, attend to

Definition

ἐπιμελέομαι means to take care of, attend to, or look after someone or something with diligence and responsibility. In the New Testament, it consistently conveys active, practical oversight, often involving physical provision and protection. In the parable of the Good Samaritan (Luke 10:34-35), the word describes the Samaritan's hands-on care for the wounded man, including bandaging his wounds, transporting him, and providing for his lodging. In 1 Timothy 3:5, the sense shifts to spiritual and administrative oversight, as Paul asks, 'If anyone does not know how to manage his own household, how will he care for God's church?' Here, it implies the attentive leadership and pastoral responsibility required of an elder.

Biblical Usage

This verb is used only three times in the New Testament, all within narratives or teachings about practical and spiritual care. In Luke 10:34 and 10:35, it describes the concrete, merciful actions of the Good Samaritan, setting a model for neighborly love. In 1 Timothy 3:5, it is used metaphorically to define the quality of care an elder or overseer must provide for the church, drawing a direct analogy to caring for one's own family. The pattern shows the word bridges everyday compassionate action and formal leadership responsibility.

Etymology

Derived from the preposition ἐπί (epi, meaning 'upon' or 'over') combined with the verb μέλομαι (melomai), which in middle voice means 'to be an object of care' or 'to be concerned about.' Thus, ἐπιμελέομαι literally means to have care 'upon' or 'over' something, emphasizing a sense of charge or responsibility for another. It shares a root with the noun ἐπιμέλεια (epimeleia), meaning 'care, attention.'

Semantic Range

This word is theologically significant as it connects practical mercy with spiritual leadership. In Luke 10, it defines the essence of loving one's neighbor through tangible, costly action, fulfilling the Law (Luke 10:36-37). In 1 Timothy 3:5, it becomes a criterion for church leadership, showing that godly oversight is not about authority but about diligent, nurturing care. Understanding this Greek term enriches reading by highlighting that biblical 'care' is always active, responsible, and modeled on God's own attentive providence.

In the Greco-Roman world, the concept of 'care' (ἐπιμέλεια) was important in contexts of household management, patronage, and public service. A good paterfamilias was expected to exercise ἐπιμέλεια over his family and slaves. The Good Samaritan's use of the word would resonate as a duty typically owed within one's own social or ethnic group; his crossing of those boundaries made the parable shocking. The application to church leadership in 1 Timothy also tapped into cultural ideals of responsible stewardship.

ποιμαίνω (poimainō, G4165) — to shepherd or tend a flock, emphasizing guidance and protection, often used for spiritual oversight. διακονέω (diakoneō, G1247) — to serve or minister, focusing on meeting needs through service, often in practical or supportive roles.

Word Details

Scripture References