NAS Word Usage – Total: 10

1. abandon, desert
   1. leave in straits, leave helpless
   2. totally abandoned, utterly forsaken
2. to leave behind among, to leave surviving

The Meaning of Egkataleipo

Egkataleipo (ἐγκαταλείπω) is a Greek verb that translates to “to leave behind,” “to desert,” or “to forsake.” The term is a strong one, often used to signify abandonment or leaving someone to fend for themselves. When we explore its use in the Bible, it can carry both literal and symbolic meanings.

Usage in the Bible

In the Old Testament

Although Egkataleipo is a Greek word, the Old Testament (written mainly in Hebrew) has been translated into Greek in what is known as the Septuagint. This translation uses Egkataleipo in several instances.

For example, in Psalm 22:1, a verse quoted by Jesus on the cross, the term is used to express deep anguish:

“My God, my God, why have you forsaken me?”

Here, Egkataleipo translates the Hebrew word “azab,” highlighting a sense of divine abandonment that’s both personal and communal.

In the New Testament

The New Testament writers often used Egkataleipo to express powerful emotional and spiritual truths.

Matthew 27:46 and Mark 15:34

Both of these passages recount Jesus’ cry from the cross:

“Eli, Eli, lema sabachthani?” (which means “My God, my God, why have you forsaken me?”)

In these verses, Egkataleipo again carries the sense of being utterly forsaken, capturing the depth of Jesus’ suffering and human experience of separation from God.

2 Timothy 4:10

In a more interpersonal context, Paul uses the word when he writes to Timothy:

“for Demas, because he loved this world, has deserted me and has gone to Thessalonica.”

Here, Egkataleipo describes a personal abandonment, a betrayal by a close companion.

Theological Implications

Understanding God’s Relationship with Humanity

Egkataleipo often appears in contexts where God’s faithfulness is contrasted with human unfaithfulness. When God’s people feel deserted, they are called to remember God’s enduring presence.

In Hebrews 13:5, believers are comforted with the words:

“Never will I leave you; never will I forsake you.”

These words offer assurance that, while humans may abandon one another, God’s commitment is steadfast.

Jesus’ Cry of Abandonment

Jesus’ cry on the cross, featuring Egkataleipo, showcases the weight of sin and separation experienced on our behalf. It underscores the magnitude of God’s love — that Jesus endured such abandonment so that humanity might be reconciled to God. This becomes a cornerstone of Christian faith, emphasizing the sacrifice and the hope of redemption.

Egkataleipo in Daily Christian Life

Lessons on Faithfulness

By understanding Egkataleipo, Christians are called to reflect on their own faithfulness. The Bible’s usage of the term brings forth the importance of not abandoning our fellow believers in their times of need. Furthermore, it encourages us to remain steadfast in our faith even when we feel forsaken.

Applying Egkataleipo in Relationships

The warning against forsaking others is clear in Paul’s letters. The relational pain Paul felt when Demas abandoned him is a reminder of the impact our actions can have on others. This calls Christians to strive for loyalty and support within their communities.

Linguistic and Cultural Context

Greek Verb Forms

Understanding the various forms of Egkataleipo can offer deeper insights:

• First Person Singular Present: Egkataleipó – “I forsake”
• First Person Singular Future: Egkataleipsó – “I will forsake”
• First Person Singular Aorist: Egkatelipon – “I forsook”

These forms are used in different contexts to express the action of forsaking, abandonment, or leaving behind.

Greek Culture and Abandonment

In ancient Greek culture, the concept of abandonment was a severe social and moral failure. It could refer to leaving behind a family, a friend, or even one’s duty. In the context of the Bible, this cultural backdrop would amplify the severity and emotional weight of Egkataleipo.

Conclusion

Understanding what Egkataleipo means in Greek and its context in the Bible allows us to grasp the profound depth of Biblical texts. This word carries significant emotional and theological weight, showing us both the human experience of abandonment and the divine promise of steadfastness. As we study Egkataleipo, we are reminded of the enduring faithfulness of God and are called to reflect that faithfulness in our own lives and communities. Whether facing personal trials or supporting others, the lessons from Egkataleipo challenge us to embody the unfailing commitment that the Scriptures so powerfully convey.