ἐπισκοπέω (episkopeō)
episkopeō
to oversee/care for
Quick Reference
- Language
- Koine Greek
- Testament
- New Testament
- Occurrences
- 2 verses
- Root
- —
Word Overview
The verb episkopeō means to look upon or inspect with a view to caring for those under observation. It combines the idea of seeing something clearly with the responsibility that comes with that sight. In the New Testament, this word appears only twice, carrying a weight of active supervision rather than passive watching.
Its usage highlights a specific kind of attention. In Hebrews 12:16, it describes looking carefully to ensure no one falls into moral failure, implying a vigilant watchfulness against spiritual harm. Conversely, in 1 Peter 5:2, it commands elders to exercise oversight over the flock, framing leadership as a duty of care and visitation rather than mere authority.
The word’s root structure reinforces this dual nature. Derived from terms meaning "upon" and "eye," it literally suggests an eye that rests upon something to examine or protect it. This etymology clarifies why biblical writers use it for both the careful examination of one’s own heart and the pastoral supervision of a community.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
The word episkopeō invites us to see our responsibilities through a lens of care rather than control. It combines clear sight with active protection, suggesting that true oversight begins with noticing what is happening around us. When we look carefully at those in our sphere, we are not just checking boxes; we are watching for signs of spiritual need or struggle.
In Hebrews 12:15, this attention is directed inward and outward to prevent bitterness from taking root. It asks us to be vigilant guardians of our own hearts and the community’s peace. Similarly, 1 Peter 5:2 frames leadership as a willing act of shepherding, where authority is exercised through service and voluntary care. This perspective shifts the focus from power to presence, reminding us that watching over others is a sacred trust.
May you find strength in this call to attentive love, knowing that God values the quiet work of guarding and guiding those He has placed in your path.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 2 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- observing1×
- exercising oversight1×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- ἐπισκοποῦντες2×
Key Verses
-
Hebrews 12:15
looking carefully lest there be any man who falls short of the grace of God, lest any root of bitterness springing up trouble you and many be defiled by it,
The word here emphasizes a vigilant watchfulness to prevent spiritual harm, specifically the root of bitterness that can defile many.
-
I Peter 5:2
shepherd the flock of God which is among you, exercising the oversight, not under compulsion, but voluntarily; not for dishonest gain, but willingly;
This occurrence defines elder leadership not as forced duty but as a voluntary exercise of care over God's flock.