ἐπιποθία (epipothia)
epipothia
longing
Quick Reference
- Language
- Koine Greek
- Testament
- New Testament
- Occurrences
- 1 verses
- Root
- —
Word Overview
The noun epipothia describes a deep and earnest longing, often carrying the sense of an eager desire for something absent. In the New Testament, it appears only once, in Romans 15:23, where Paul explains his travel plans to visit Rome. He notes that he has longed to see them, using this specific term to convey more than simple curiosity; it reflects a heartfelt yearning for fellowship and mutual encouragement.
Its meaning is rooted in the verb epipotheō, which combines a prefix indicating direction or intensity with a root meaning to desire strongly. This etymology highlights that the feeling is not passive but active and focused. While English translations often settle on "longing" or "desire," the Greek word captures a specific emotional weight—a sincere wish for connection that has been delayed by circumstances, such as Paul’s many previous attempts to come.
Translators must choose carefully between words like "desire" and "longing" because epipothia sits somewhere between intellectual want and emotional ache. The context in Romans shows it directed toward people rather than objects, emphasizing the relational nature of Christian community. Paul’s use here underscores how shared faith creates bonds that persist even when physical presence is impossible.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
The word epipothia captures a profound ache for connection that goes beyond simple curiosity. In Romans 15:23, Paul uses it to describe his deep yearning to visit the believers in Rome. This term reveals that Christian fellowship is not merely about shared activities but involves a genuine emotional investment in one another’s spiritual growth.
When circumstances delay our plans to be with others, this kind of longing reminds us that our bonds in Christ transcend physical distance. It encourages us to value relationships deeply, even when we cannot meet face-to-face. Such earnest desire reflects the heart of God, who desires unity among His people.
This concept invites us to reflect on how we nurture connections within the body of Christ. Whether through prayer, letters, or future meetings, our shared faith creates ties that endure despite separation. May your own relationships be marked by such sincere and active care for others.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 1 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- a great desire1×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- ἐπιποθίαν1×
Key Verses
-
Romans 15:23
but now, no longer having any place in these regions, and having these many years a longing to come to you,
Paul uses this rare noun to emphasize his heartfelt yearning for relational fellowship with the Roman believers, showing that Christian community involves deep emotional investment beyond mere acquaintance.