ἐπιπλήσσω (epiplēssō)
epiplēssō
to rebuke
Quick Reference
- Language
- Koine Greek
- Testament
- New Testament
- Occurrences
- 1 verses
- Root
- —
Word Overview
The verb epiplēssō carries the vivid image of striking or beating upon something, but in Scripture it is used metaphorically to mean rebuking or reproving someone with words. It suggests a sharp, corrective reprimand rather than gentle advice. The word appears only once in the New Testament, in 1 Timothy 5:1.
In that specific instance, Paul instructs Timothy not to rebuke an older man harshly but to appeal to him as a father. This usage highlights the word’s inherent force; it is strong language reserved for serious correction. The prefix "epi-" adds a sense of intensity, implying that the words strike at the heart of the matter.
Translators typically render this term as "rebuke" or "reprove." While English can sometimes soften these words into mild criticism, the Greek retains the physicality of striking. It reminds readers that spiritual correction can be direct and firm, yet must always be tempered with respect for the person being addressed.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
The Greek word epiplēssō paints a vivid picture of striking or beating upon something, yet in Scripture it describes a sharp, corrective reprimand. It carries inherent force, suggesting that spiritual correction can be direct and firm. This intensity reminds us that addressing sin or error is not always a gentle whisper; sometimes it requires clear, unambiguous truth to cut through confusion.
However, the single New Testament occurrence in 1 Timothy 5:1 provides crucial context for how we apply this force. Paul instructs Timothy not to rebuke an older man harshly, but to appeal to him with the respect due a father. This teaches us that while the truth may strike hard, the manner of delivery must always be tempered with deep respect for the person being addressed.
In your own life, this balance is vital. When correction is needed, let it be clear and honest, yet rooted in love and honor. We are called to speak truth boldly, but never without regard for the dignity of those we serve. May your words always build up, even when they correct.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 1 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- you may rebuke1×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- ἐπιπλήξῃς1×
Key Verses
-
I Timothy 5:1
Don’t rebuke an older man, but exhort him as a father; the younger men as brothers;
This verse defines the proper posture for using epiplēssō by instructing Timothy to temper sharp correction with familial respect.