ἐπίσημος

notable, conspicuous

Definition

The adjective ἐπίσημος (episēmos) fundamentally means 'notable,' 'conspicuous,' or 'distinguished.' It describes something or someone that stands out, either in a positive or negative sense. In the New Testament, it carries a positive connotation in Romans 16:7, where Andronicus and Junia are described as 'notable among the apostles,' likely meaning they were well-known and respected. In Matthew 27:16, it is used negatively to describe Barabbas as a 'notable prisoner,' meaning he was infamous or notorious for his crimes.

Biblical Usage

This word is used only twice in the New Testament, in two distinct contexts. In Matthew 27:16, it modifies a prisoner (Barabbas) in a judicial context, highlighting his infamous reputation. In Romans 16:7, it is used in a positive, honorific context within a list of personal greetings to commend two individuals (Andronicus and Junia) as being distinguished among the apostles. The usage shows the word can denote prominence, whether for good or ill.

Etymology

Derived from the preposition ἐπί (epi, meaning 'upon' or 'over') combined with the root σῆμα (sēma, meaning 'sign' or 'mark'). Literally, it means 'bearing a mark upon' something, thus 'marked,' 'distinguished,' or 'notable.' Its root is related to words like σημαίνω (sēmainō, 'to signify' or 'make known').

Semantic Range

This word is theologically significant in Romans 16:7, where its application to Andronicus and Junia has been central to discussions about the role of women in early church leadership. Understanding it as 'notable' or 'outstanding' among the apostles enriches the reading by highlighting the esteem and authority some individuals held within the apostolic community, contributing to our picture of early Christian ministry.

In the Greco-Roman world, being 'notable' (episēmos) was a key social value tied to honor and public reputation. A positive use, as in Romans 16:7, would confer honor and recognition within a community. The negative use for Barabbas aligns with the public shaming associated with criminal punishment. The cultural weight of public reputation makes this term more charged than a simple modern synonym like 'famous.'

γνωστός (gnōstos, G1110) — known, familiar; emphasizes being known rather than distinguished. ἔνδοξος (endoxos, G1741) — glorious, honored; emphasizes splendor and glory, often of a higher register. περισσός (perissos, G4053) — abundant, extraordinary; emphasizes exceeding measure or superiority.

Word Details

Scripture References