ἐκνήφω (eknēphō)
eknēphō
to wake up
Quick Reference
- Language
- Koine Greek
- Testament
- New Testament
- Occurrences
- 1 verses
- Root
- —
Word Overview
The verb eknēphō literally describes the physical act of becoming sober after drunkenness, but in Scripture it carries a metaphorical weight regarding mental clarity. Derived from roots meaning "out" and "wine," it signifies returning to one’s senses or regaining self-control. This term appears only once in the New Testament, where Paul uses it to urge believers toward spiritual alertness rather than moral confusion.
In 1 Corinthians 15:34, Paul commands his readers to "wake up" from their sinful state. The context suggests that some Corinthians were behaving in ways that contradicted their faith, perhaps due to a lack of serious reflection on the resurrection. By using this specific word, Paul emphasizes that they need to shake off spiritual intoxication and return to a clear, sober-minded understanding of Christian truth.
The Old Testament background for this concept includes passages like Habakkuk 2:7, where the Hebrew equivalent implies waking up from a stupor. This connection highlights that biblical sobriety is not merely about abstaining from alcohol, but about maintaining a disciplined mind capable of discerning God’s will. The term thus serves as a call to intellectual and moral vigilance in the face of confusion or error.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
The word eknēphō paints a vivid picture of shaking off a heavy fog. It describes the moment when drunkenness fades and clarity returns. In 1 Corinthians 15:34, Paul uses this strong language to urge believers to wake up from spiritual confusion. He reminds us that some in the church had lost their way, lacking a clear knowledge of God.
This call to sobriety is not just about moral behavior but about mental clarity. It invites you to step away from distractions and errors that cloud your judgment. By returning to a sober mind, you can better understand Christian truth and live in alignment with your faith. This simple act of waking up brings peace and direction.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 1 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- do sober up1×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- ἐκνήψατε1×
Key Verses
-
I Corinthians 15:34
Wake up righteously and don’t sin, for some have no knowledge of God. I say this to your shame.
Paul uses this rare verb to sharply rebuke the Corinthian church for their moral laxity and lack of understanding regarding the resurrection.