NAS Word Usage – Total: 3

1. to breathe out, breathe out one’s life, breathe one’s last, expire

The Origin and Literal Meaning of Ekpneo

Before diving into its biblical usage, it’s important to understand the literal meaning of the Greek word “ekpneo.” Composed of “ek,” meaning “out,” and “pneo,” meaning “to breathe,” “ekpneo” literally translates to “to breathe out.” In a more nuanced sense, it also means “to expire” or “to die.”

This term is very descriptive and vividly captures the act of one’s breath leaving the body. In ancient Greek literature, “ekpneo” is often used to depict the last breath one takes before death.

Biblical Context of Ekpneo

In the New Testament, “ekpneo” appears in several key passages. Its use is almost exclusively related to the moment of death, which aligns with its literal meaning of “to breathe out” or “to expire.”

Mark 15:37 and Luke 23:46

One of the most notable examples can be found in the accounts of Jesus’ crucifixion. Both Mark 15:37 and Luke 23:46 use the term “ekpneo.” In Mark, the verse reads:

“And Jesus uttered a loud cry, and breathed his last.” (Mark 15:37, ESV)

Here, “ekpneo” conveys the moment when Jesus’ life leaves his body. The loud cry signifies his agony and the culmination of his human suffering, while “breathed his last” is translated from “ekpneo,” highlighting the finality of his earthly life.

Similarly, in Luke:

“Then Jesus, calling out with a loud voice, said, ‘Father, into your hands I commit my spirit!’ And having said this he breathed his last.” (Luke 23:46, ESV)

In this verse, “ekpneo” again signifies Jesus’ last act of breath, marking his transition from life to death. This emphasizes his surrender and trust in God at the moment of his death.

Acts 5:5 and Acts 5:10

Ekpneo is also used in the story of Ananias and Sapphira in the Book of Acts. When Ananias is confronted about lying to the Holy Spirit, the verse states:

“When Ananias heard these words, he fell down and breathed his last. And great fear came upon all who heard of it.” (Acts 5:5, ESV)

Likewise, when his wife Sapphira is similarly confronted, the verse reads:

“Immediately she fell at his feet and breathed her last. When the young men came in they found her dead, and they carried her out and buried her beside her husband.” (Acts 5:10, ESV)

In both these instances, “ekpneo” signifies the sudden end of life as a direct consequence of their actions.

Interpretation and Theological Significance

The use of “ekpneo” in these passages is significant for several reasons. First and foremost, it underscores the seriousness of the events. The act of “breathing out” or “expiring” serves as a poignant reminder of the gravity and permanence of death.

In the case of Jesus’ crucifixion, “ekpneo” underscores the profound nature of his sacrifice. Recognizing that Jesus “breathed his last” helps readers understand the full scope of his human experience and the depth of his suffering. It also resonates with the concept of Jesus willingly giving up his life, emphasizing his obedience and trust in God.

In the story of Ananias and Sapphira, “ekpneo” brings immediate and dramatic finality to their sins. Their “breathing out” in response to their deceit serves as a divine judgment, reinforcing the seriousness of lying to the Holy Spirit and the community.

Comparison with Other Words

To fully appreciate “ekpneo,” it is helpful to compare it to other Greek words related to breath and life used in the New Testament. For example, “pneuma” means “spirit” or “breath,” frequently used to denote the Holy Spirit.

While “pneuma” emphasizes the ongoing presence and activity of God’s Spirit, “ekpneo” marks the definitive end of physical life. Understanding this distinction helps highlight the different dimensions of life and death in Scripture and underscores the unique usage of “ekpneo” to evoke finality and transition.

Uses in Other Ancient Texts

Beyond the New Testament, “ekpneo” also appears in other ancient Greek texts, including works by Homer and other classical authors. In these contexts, “ekpneo” typically denotes the moment of death in battle or dramatic scenes. This widespread usage demonstrates the word’s evocative power in depicting the end of life.

Conclusion

Understanding the meaning of “ekpneo” in Greek and its use in the New Testament provides deeper insights into the biblical narrative. As a term that vividly captures the moment of death, “ekpneo” helps convey the gravity of Jesus’ sacrifice on the cross and the solemn consequences faced by Ananias and Sapphira for their actions. It reminds readers of the seriousness of death and the importance of obedience and trust in God’s plan.

By exploring “ekpneo” in its original Greek context, we gain a richer understanding of the biblical text and the profound messages it communicates about life, death, and divine judgment.