Lexical Summary epos: Word, saying, speech Original Word: ἔπος Strong's Exhaustive Concordance a wordFrom epo; a word -- X say. see GREEK epo NAS Exhaustive Concordance Word Originakin to eipon, see also legó Definition a word NASB Translation so* (1). Thayer's Greek Lexicon STRONGS NT 2031: ἔποςἔπος, ἐπεος (ἐπους), τό, a word: ὡς ἔπος εἰπεῖν (see εἶπον, 1 a., p. 181a), Hebrews 7:9. Topical Lexicon Literary Context in Hebrews Hebrews 7 sets forth the superiority of the priesthood of Jesus Christ after the order of Melchizedek. In verse 9 the author employs the phrase ὡς ἔπος εἰπεῖν—“and so to speak”—to introduce an illustrative concession: “And so to speak, Levi, who collects the tenth, paid the tenth through Abraham” (Hebrews 7:9). By invoking this idiom, the writer momentarily steps outside strict historical narration to acknowledge a logical inference: Levi, though unborn, is represented in Abraham’s tithe to Melchizedek. The use of ἔπος thus signals a rhetorical pause that invites the reader to follow an inspired argument grounded in both Scripture and reason. Idiomatic Function Ἔπος appears in classical Greek as a general term for “word” or “statement,” often employed in epic poetry. In Hebrews it serves a unique idiomatic purpose—similar to “as it were” or “so to speak” in English—indicating respectful caution when asserting a point that might seem paradoxical. The idiom does not weaken the argument; rather, it models intellectual integrity, acknowledging that an unseen, spiritual truth (Levi paying tithes in Abraham) transcends ordinary temporal categories. Theological Implications 1. Federal Headship: By saying Levi “paid the tenth through Abraham,” the author underscores the corporate nature of biblical covenants. Just as the sin of Adam involves all humanity (Romans 5:12) and the righteousness of Christ is imputed to believers (Romans 5:18–19), so Levi’s participation in Abraham’s act demonstrates the principle of seminal or representative inclusion within ancestral headship. Historical Background In Second Temple Judaism, rabbinic discourse often included cautious qualifiers to respect the sanctity of Scripture while offering interpretive midrash. The writer to the Hebrews, steeped in such exegetical traditions, employs ἔπος to invite his audience—likely Jewish believers—to consider a typological reading that elevates Christ without disparaging the Law. Related Biblical Themes • Language as Vehicle of Revelation: Scripture frequently highlights the power of the spoken word—God’s creative fiat (Genesis 1:3), prophetic utterance (Jeremiah 1:9), and the incarnate Word (John 1:14). Though ἔπος is distinct from λόγος or ῥῆμα, its presence draws attention to the precision with which the Holy Spirit guides biblical authorship. Patristic and Reformation Perspectives Early commentators such as John Chrysostom noted that the phrase “so to speak” reflects pastoral sensitivity, ensuring the audience does not stumble over a difficult teaching. Martin Luther likewise observed that the idiom protects against literalistic objections while advancing the argument for justification by faith apart from Levitical works. Ministry Application 1. Teaching with Humility: When expounding difficult doctrines—whether federal headship, typology, or giving—teachers can employ respectful qualifiers without diluting truth. Summary Strong’s Greek 2031 (ἔπος) appears only once in the New Testament, yet its strategic placement enriches the epistle’s argument and models a style of godly persuasion that balances bold proclamation with reverent caution. Forms and Transliterations επος έπος ἔπος epos éposLinks Interlinear Greek • Interlinear Hebrew • Strong's Numbers • Englishman's Greek Concordance • Englishman's Hebrew Concordance • Parallel TextsEnglishman's Concordance Hebrews 7:9 N-ANSGRK: καὶ ὡς ἔπος εἰπεῖν δι' KJV: And as I may so say, Levi also, INT: and so a word to speak through |
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