ἐπιθυμητής (epithumētēs)
epithumētēs
one who desires
Quick Reference
- Language
- Koine Greek
- Testament
- New Testament
- Occurrences
- 1 verses
- Root
- —
Word Overview
The noun epithumētēs refers to a person who is intensely eager for something, essentially a "craver" or one driven by strong desire. Derived from the verb epithymeō, it describes an active longing rather than a passive wish. In Scripture, this term appears only once, in 1 Corinthians 10:6, where Paul uses it to describe the Israelites who were eager for evil things.
This usage highlights a specific moral danger: desire itself is not inherently bad, but when it turns toward what is harmful or forbidden, it becomes destructive. The context of 1 Corinthians warns against imitating the old generation’s idolatry and dissatisfaction, showing how unchecked longing can lead people away from God. By labeling them epithumētēs, Paul emphasizes that their downfall stemmed from a heart actively pursuing wrong objects.
Though rare in the New Testament, this word reminds readers of the power of desire to shape behavior. It serves as a sobering example of how even those who experienced God’s provision can fall if they allow their cravings to dictate their choices. The focus remains on the direction of one’s desires and their consequences.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
The word epithumētēs describes a person driven by intense craving, one who actively pursues what they want with great eagerness. In 1 Corinthians 10:6, Paul uses this term to describe the Israelites who lusted after evil things. This highlights that desire itself is not inherently wrong, but its direction matters deeply. When our cravings turn toward harmful or forbidden objects, they can lead us away from God.
Reflecting on this word invites us to examine the focus of our own hearts. Are we pursuing what aligns with God’s will, or are we drawn to things that distract us from Him? This passage reminds us that even those who experienced God’s provision can fall if they allow their desires to dictate their choices. It calls us to steward our longings carefully.
May you find peace in examining your own heart and seeking God’s guidance for your desires. Let this truth encourage you to pursue what is good, true, and pleasing to Him, trusting that He will satisfy the deepest needs of your soul.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 1 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- desirers1×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- ἐπιθυμητὰς1×
Key Verses
-
I Corinthians 10:6
Now these things were our examples, to the intent we should not lust after evil things as they also lusted.
Paul uses this rare noun to label the Israelites as active pursuers of evil, showing how unchecked longing leads to idolatry.