ἐκλείπω (ekleipō)
ekleipō
to fail
Quick Reference
- Language
- Koine Greek
- Testament
- New Testament
- Occurrences
- 4 verses
- Root
- —
Word Overview
The verb ekleipō describes a process of fading, ceasing, or failing. It carries the sense of something coming to an end or being left behind. In the New Testament, it appears in only four verses, primarily in Luke and Hebrews, where it illustrates the temporary nature of earthly things compared to eternal realities.
Its most striking usage occurs in Luke 23:45, describing the sun’s light failing during the crucifixion. This specific instance likely refers to an eclipse or a sudden darkening, emphasizing the cosmic significance of Jesus’ death. The word conveys not just stopping, but a gradual loss of power or presence.
In Hebrews 1:12, ekleipō translates a phrase about the heavens and earth wearing out like a garment. Here, it underscores the impermanence of creation. The contrast is clear: while physical realms fade and cease, God’s character remains constant. This usage highlights the reliability of divine promises against changing circumstances.
Translators often render ekleipō as "fail" or "cease," capturing its core idea of termination. The word reminds readers that all created things are subject to change and eventual passing away, pointing toward the need for something enduring beyond the physical world.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
The word ekleipō describes a gradual fading or failing, much like a light dimming at dusk. In Luke’s Gospel, it appears in moments of profound transition: Jesus prays that Peter’s faith would not fail when tested, and He speaks of using earthly resources so that friends might welcome us when our own strength gives out. These verses remind us that human power is temporary, but God’s purpose endures.
Hebrews 1:12 uses the same word to describe how the heavens and earth will wear out like an old garment. The contrast is striking: while everything created eventually fades, God remains unchanged. This offers deep comfort. When our circumstances shift or our strength wanes, we can rest in the certainty that His character and promises do not diminish. We are invited to trust in what lasts forever.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 4 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- will never end.1×
- may fail1×
- it may fail1×
- darkened.1×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- ἐκλίπῃ2×
- ἐκλιπόντος.1×
- ἐκλείψουσιν.¶1×
Key Verses
-
Luke 23:45
The sun was darkened, and the veil of the temple was torn in two.
This verse describes the sun failing during the crucifixion, marking a cosmic sign of Jesus’ death.
-
Hebrews 1:12
You will roll them up like a mantle, and they will be changed; but you are the same. Your years won’t fail.”
Here the word shows that creation will wear out like clothing, while God’s years never fail.
-
Luke 22:32
but I prayed for you, that your faith wouldn’t fail. You, when once you have turned again, establish your brothers.”
Jesus prays specifically that Peter’s faith would not fail despite his coming denial.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does the Greek word ekleipō mean?
Where does ekleipō appear in the Bible?
How is ekleipō different from other words for 'fail'?
Every Occurrence (4 verses across 2 books)
Luke 3 verses
I tell you, make for yourselves friends by means of unrighteous mammon, so that when you fail, they may receive you…
Luke 22:32but I prayed for you, that your faith wouldn’t fail. You, when once you have turned again, establish your brothers.”
Luke 23:45The sun was darkened, and the veil of the temple was torn in two.