ἐπιγραφή (epigraphē)
epigraphē
inscription
Quick Reference
- Language
- Koine Greek
- Testament
- New Testament
- Occurrences
- 5 verses
- Root
- —
Word Overview
The noun epigraphē refers to a written inscription or title, specifically describing the text marked on physical objects in the New Testament. It appears in five verses, primarily within the Gospels of Matthew, Mark, and Luke. The word captures the literal act of writing upon a surface, serving as a label that identifies an object or declares a status.
This term is most vividly illustrated in the encounter with Jesus’ enemies regarding taxes. When asked about paying Caesar, Jesus requests a denarius, pointing to the image and inscription on the coin (Matthew 22:20; Mark 12:16). The source highlights that this inscription was typically written in black letters on a whitened background, making it clearly visible. Later, the same word describes the notice placed above Jesus’ head on the cross, which stated the charge against him (Mark 15:26; Luke 23:38).
The usage of epigraphē emphasizes the permanence and public nature of written declarations. Whether on a small coin or a large wooden cross, the inscription serves as an undeniable record. The sources note its consistent application to these tangible texts, distinguishing it from general writing by focusing on the fixed message displayed for all to see.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
The word epigraphē refers to an inscription carved or written onto a surface so it cannot be ignored. In the Gospels, this term appears in two striking moments involving coins and crosses. When Jesus asked about Caesar’s coin, He pointed to the image and inscription as evidence of earthly authority. Later, Pilate ordered a notice placed above Jesus’ head on the cross, declaring Him “King of the Jews.”
These inscriptions were not hidden details but public declarations meant for all to see. They served as undeniable records of status and charge. For believers, this reminds us that truth is often displayed openly, even when it challenges power. The permanence of these written words reflects how God’s purposes unfold in history through clear, visible signs.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 5 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- inscription?3×
- inscription1×
- an inscription1×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- ἐπιγραφή;2×
- ἐπιγραφὴ2×
- ἐπιγραφήν;1×
Key Verses
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Matthew 22:20
He asked them, “Whose is this image and inscription?”
Jesus uses the inscription on a denarius to highlight the distinction between earthly civic duties and spiritual devotion.
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Mark 15:26
The superscription of his accusation was written over him: “THE KING OF THE JEWS.”
The inscription above Jesus’ head serves as an ironic public declaration of His true identity despite His crucifixion.
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Luke 23:38
An inscription was also written over him in letters of Greek, Latin, and Hebrew: “THIS IS THE KING OF THE JEWS.”
This verse specifies that the inscription was written in three languages, emphasizing its broad public reach and official nature.