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ἐπικουρία (epikouria)

epikouria

help

G1947 · Greek · New Testament · 1 verses

Quick Reference

Language
Koine Greek
Testament
New Testament
Occurrences
1 verses
Root
—

Word Overview

The noun epikouria denotes active aid or assistance, carrying a sense of urgent support rather than casual help. Its etymology points to an ally coming to reinforce someone in need, suggesting a rescue mission where the helper arrives to bolster those already engaged in a struggle. In Scripture, this word appears only once, in Acts 26:22.

Paul uses it to describe his own ministry, stating he has said nothing beyond what the prophets and Moses foresaw. Here, epikouria frames the apostolic message not as new invention, but as divine reinforcement of established truth. The term implies that God provides the necessary strength to fulfill His promises, turning abstract hope into tangible support for the faithful.

Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).

What This Word Means for Your Faith

The word epikouria describes more than a simple favor; it is active aid arriving at a critical moment. In Acts 26:22, Paul uses this term to explain his ministry. He says he obtained this help from God to stand firm and testify to everyone, regardless of their status.

This reminds us that our ability to speak truth or remain faithful does not come from our own strength. It comes from divine reinforcement. When you feel overwhelmed by the task of living out your faith, remember that God provides the specific support needed for that moment. His help is reliable and timely, ensuring we are never left to struggle alone.

How it's translated

How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 1 verses where it appears, by frequency.

  • Help1×

Forms in the text

The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.

  • ἐπικουρίας1×

Key Verses

  • Acts 26:22
    Having therefore obtained the help that is from God, I stand to this day testifying both to small and great, saying nothing but what the prophets and Moses said would happen,

    Paul identifies this divine help as the foundation that enables him to stand firm and testify consistently throughout his life.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does epikouria mean in the Bible?

It is a Greek noun found only once in Acts 26:22. It refers to active, urgent aid or assistance provided by God to support someone in their mission or struggle.

Why did Paul use this specific word for help?

Paul chose it to emphasize that his ability to stand and testify was not self-generated. It highlights that God actively reinforced him, providing the necessary strength to fulfill his calling.

How is this different from general help?

The term implies a rescue or reinforcement mission. It suggests support arriving when needed most to bolster someone already engaged in a difficult task, rather than casual assistance.

Every Occurrence (1 verses across 1 books)

Acts 1 verse
Acts 26:22

Having therefore obtained the help that is from God, I stand to this day testifying both to small and great, saying…