ἐπάνω (epanō)
epanō
above
Quick Reference
- Language
- Koine Greek
- Testament
- New Testament
- Occurrences
- 18 verses
- Root
- —
Word Overview
The Greek adverb epanō primarily denotes position, meaning "above" in a physical sense. It appears frequently in the Gospels to describe spatial relationships, such as the sign placed above Jesus’ head on the cross (Matthew 27:37) or the location of a house built on a rock (Matthew 7:24). This concrete usage grounds the word in tangible reality, pointing to something situated higher than another object.
Beyond physical height, epanō extends to abstract superiority. In Luke 19:17, it describes authority over multiple cities, indicating pre-eminence rather than mere altitude. It also functions with numerical values, as seen in Mark 14:5 where more than three hundred denarii are mentioned, translating the sense of "more than." This dual capacity allows the term to bridge simple location and hierarchical rank.
Derived from the preposition epi and the directional suffix -ano, the word consistently implies a relationship of being over or upon. Its usage in Revelation 20:3 reinforces this spatial logic, describing Satan bound and confined below the earth while Christ reigns above. The term remains a straightforward marker of verticality or precedence throughout the New Testament.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
The word epanō simply means 'above,' yet it carries a quiet weight in Scripture. It often marks physical position, like the sign placed over Jesus’ head on the cross or the star that guided the wise men. These details ground our faith in real history. God does not deal in abstract ideas alone; He meets us in tangible places and times.
Beyond space, epanō speaks of authority and care. In Luke 10:19, Jesus promises His followers authority over the enemy’s power. This is not about dominance for its own sake, but protection. When we face fear or uncertainty, this word reminds us that Christ reigns above every circumstance. He holds all things in place.
We can rest in this truth. Whether you are dealing with illness, financial strain, or spiritual doubt, the One who sits above all troubles is also near to help. His authority brings peace, not panic. You do not need to carry the weight of the world alone; He bears it for you.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 18 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- over6×
- upon5×
- above4×
- on3×
- to above1×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- ἐπάνω19×
Key Verses
-
Matthew 27:37
They set up over his head the accusation against him written, “THIS IS JESUS, THE KING OF THE JEWS.”
The sign placed over Jesus’ head identifies Him as King, turning a place of shame into a declaration of His true identity.
-
Luke 10:19
Behold, I give you authority to tread on serpents and scorpions, and over all the power of the enemy. Nothing will in any way hurt you.
Jesus grants authority over the enemy’s power, showing that believers are protected under His superior rule.
-
John 3:31
“He who comes from above is above all. He who is from the earth belongs to the earth and speaks of the earth. He who comes from heaven is above all.
This verse contrasts Jesus, who comes from above and is above all, with those who belong only to the earth.
-
Revelation of John 20:3
and cast him into the abyss, and shut it and sealed it over him, that he should deceive the nations no more until the thousand years were finished. After this, he must be freed for a short time.
Satan is sealed in the abyss, demonstrating that evil is confined and cannot exceed the limits God sets.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does epanō mean in the New Testament?
How is epanō different from other words for 'above'?
Where does this word appear most significantly?
Every Occurrence (18 verses across 6 books)
Matthew 8 verses
They, having heard the king, went their way; and behold, the star, which they saw in the east, went before them until…
Matthew 5:14“You are the light of the world. A city located on a hill can’t be hidden.
Matthew 21:7and brought the donkey and the colt and laid their clothes on them; and he sat on them.
Matthew 23:18And, ‘Whoever swears by the altar, it is nothing; but whoever swears by the gift that is on it, he is obligated.’
Matthew 23:20He therefore who swears by the altar, swears by it and by everything on it.
Matthew 23:22He who swears by heaven, swears by the throne of God and by him who sits on it.
Matthew 27:37They set up over his head the accusation against him written, “THIS IS JESUS, THE KING OF THE JEWS.”
Matthew 28:2Behold, there was a great earthquake, for an angel of the Lord descended from the sky and came and rolled away the…