ἐπιχρίω
epichríō
G2025 verb
SILEX Entry
Definition
To apply by smearing, to spread or rub on a surface, especially with oil or ointment; specifically, to anoint (typically with oil) by physically rubbing it on a person or object. In some contexts, may denote a ceremonial or ritual act of anointing, but fundamentally carries the sense of physical application or spreading.
Semantic Range
to smear on, to rub on, to spread over, to apply ointment or oil, to physically anoint (not necessarily in a ceremonial sense)
Root / Etymology
From the preposition ἐπί ('on, upon') and the verb χρίω ('to rub, anoint'). The compound verb ἐπιχρίω thus literally means 'to anoint upon' or 'to smear upon.'
Historical & Contextual Notes
The verb ἐπιχρίω is relatively rare in extant Greek literature, including the Septuagint and New Testament, where it describes the physical act of smearing or spreading a substance, especially oil, onto something or someone. In the New Testament (e.g., John 9:6, 11, 15), it specifically refers to Jesus applying mud (made from saliva and dust) to the eyes of a blind man. The verb does not carry the technical religious sense of 'to consecrate by anointing' (as with χρίω), but instead focuses on the physical act itself. The English rendering 'anoint' may sometimes obscure this difference, so it is important to distinguish ἐπιχρίω from χρίω, the latter of which frequently designates a symbolic or ritual consecration (e.g., anointing a king or priest for office). In non-religious contexts in wider Greek usage, the term is used for the application of ointment, salves, or other substances on the body or objects. The verb's use is found in medical writings for the application of medicinal balms or oils. Its meaning remained stable from classical through Koine Greek, with contextual nuance depending on what substance is spread and with what purpose. English Bibles often translate with 'anoint,' particularly in the New Testament, but may miss the non-ceremonial, physical sense present in Greek.
Original Strong's Gloss (1890)
from ἐπί and χρίω; to smear over:--anoint.
Root Family
ἐπιχρίω (epichriō) — to rub, to smear, to spread, to anoint
Word Forms
1 distinct form
| SIDANCE | Surface | Transliteration | Morphology | Common | SIBI-P1 | SIBI-P2 | Occurrences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
G2025-01 |
ἐπέχρισεν | epechrisen | V AOR ACT IND 3P SG |
anointed | he smeared on | he smeared on | 2 |
Occurrences in Scripture
2 occurrences