Strong's Lexicon epistates: Master, Overseer Original Word: ἐπιστάτης Word Origin: Derived from the Greek verb ἐφίστημι (ephistēmi), meaning "to stand over" or "to be set over." Corresponding Greek / Hebrew Entries: While there is no direct Hebrew equivalent for "epistates," the concept of a master or overseer can be related to Hebrew terms such as אָדוֹן (adon, Strong's H113) meaning "lord" or "master." Usage: The term "epistates" is used in the New Testament to denote someone who holds authority or command, often translated as "master" or "overseer." It conveys a sense of leadership and responsibility, typically in a context where the person addressed is recognized for their authority and ability to direct or instruct others. Cultural and Historical Background: In the Greco-Roman world, the term "epistates" was commonly used to refer to someone in a position of authority, such as a supervisor, foreman, or commander. It was a title of respect and recognition of one's role in overseeing or managing others. In the context of the New Testament, it reflects the disciples' acknowledgment of Jesus' authority and leadership. HELPS Word-studies 1988 epistátēs (from 1909 /epí, "appropriately on, fitting," which intensifies 2476 /hístēmi, "standing") – properly, the legal standing of ownership referring to the master-in-charge, i.e. the one fully authorized (aptly acknowledged as the leader). 1988 /epistátēs ("Master") supremely refers to Jesus, the head (owner) of all things (cf. Jn 1:3; Col 1:15,18). Thayer's Greek Lexicon STRONGS NT 1988: ἐπιστάτηςἐπιστάτης, ἐπιστατου, ὁ (ἐφίστημι), any sort of a superintendent or overseer (often so in secular writings, and several times in the Sept., as Exodus 1:11; Exodus 5:14; 1 Kings 5:16; 2 Kings 25:19; Jeremiah 36:26 Strong's Exhaustive Concordance master. From epi and a presumed derivative of histemi; an appointee over, i.e. Commander (teacher) -- master. see GREEK epi see GREEK histemi Forms and Transliterations Επιστατα επιστάτα Ἐπιστάτα επιστάται επιστάτας επιστάτην επιστάτης επιστατών Epistata EpistátaLinks Interlinear Greek • Interlinear Hebrew • Strong's Numbers • Englishman's Greek Concordance • Englishman's Hebrew Concordance • Parallel TextsEnglishman's Concordance Luke 5:5 N-VMSGRK: Σίμων εἶπεν Ἐπιστάτα δι' ὅλης NAS: and said, Master, we worked hard KJV: unto him, Master, we have toiled INT: Simon said Master through whole Luke 8:24 N-VMS Luke 8:24 N-VMS Luke 8:45 N-VMS Luke 9:33 N-VMS Luke 9:49 N-VMS Luke 17:13 N-VMS |