ἐπιπίπτω (epipiptō)
epipiptō
to fall/press upon
Quick Reference
- Language
- Koine Greek
- Testament
- New Testament
- Occurrences
- 11 verses
- Root
- —
Word Overview
The verb epipiptō describes a sudden, forceful falling upon someone or something. It conveys more than simple contact; it implies rushing toward a person to embrace them or pressing against them with intensity. In the Gospels and Acts, this word captures moments of physical urgency, such as when Jesus’ disciples were crowded by the pressing multitudes (Mark 3:10) or when Paul collapsed over a young man named Eutychus after he fell from a window (Acts 20:10).
Its most vivid usage appears in Luke 15:20, where the father of the prodigal son runs to meet him and falls on his neck. This image combines physical collision with deep affection, showing an embrace that is both overwhelming and tender. The word also shifts to metaphorical territory, describing how fear or reproaches can "fall upon" a person, seizing their mind or spirit (Luke 1:12; Romans 15:3).
A particularly distinct application involves the Holy Spirit. In Acts, the Spirit is said to fall upon believers, whether in the context of baptism or sudden inspiration (Acts 8:16; 10:44). This usage emphasizes a divine initiative that descends with power, much like rain falling from the sky. The sources note that this action is often directed toward people, highlighting the Spirit’s active role in transforming lives through a decisive, uninvited arrival.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
The Greek word epipiptō captures moments where physical presence meets deep emotion. It describes a sudden, forceful falling upon someone, whether in urgent need or overwhelming affection. In Luke 15:20, the father of the prodigal son runs to meet his returning child and falls on his neck. This image shows that divine love is not distant but rushes toward us with tender intensity.
Similarly, in Acts 10:44, the Holy Spirit falls upon believers while Peter speaks. This suggests that God’s presence often arrives unexpectedly, bringing power and comfort when we least expect it. Whether facing fear or receiving grace, this word reminds us that we are not left alone in our struggles.
When difficulties press upon you, remember that God’s love can also fall upon you with similar force. It is a reminder of His nearness and care. You can trust that He meets you in your moments of greatest need, offering peace and strength through His Spirit.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 11 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- fell6×
- to press upon1×
- he fell1×
- having fallen,1×
- having fallen1×
- fell upon1×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- ἐπέπεσεν7×
- ἐπέπεσαν1×
- ἐπιπίπτειν1×
- ἐπιπεσόντες1×
- ἐπιπεπτωκός,1×
Key Verses
-
Luke 15:20
“He arose and came to his father. But while he was still far off, his father saw him and was moved with compassion, and ran, fell on his neck, and kissed him.
This verse highlights the father’s compassionate embrace, showing how epipiptō conveys deep affection rather than just physical contact.
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Acts 10:44
While Peter was still speaking these words, the Holy Spirit fell on all those who heard the word.
Here the Holy Spirit falls on listeners, emphasizing a sudden divine initiative that transforms hearts without prior ritual.
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Mark 3:10
For he had healed many, so that as many as had diseases pressed on him that they might touch him.
The crowd presses on Jesus, illustrating the word’s use for urgent physical contact driven by desperate need.
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Acts 20:10
Paul went down and fell upon him, and embracing him said, “Don’t be troubled, for his life is in him.”
Paul falls on Eutychus to comfort him, demonstrating how the action can express care and reassurance in crisis.