NAS Word Usage – Total: 3

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

Origin and Definition

The word “ekpsucho” is a Greek verb that can be broken down into two parts: “ek” meaning “out of” or “from,” and “psucho” which means “to breathe” or “to blow.” Therefore, when combined, “ekpsucho” essentially means “to breathe out” or “to expire.”

In ancient Greek literature, “ekpsucho” is often used to denote the act of dying. Literally, it refers to the moment when someone breathes their last breath. This provides a clue to its context in the Bible, where it is also used to describe death.

Biblical Context and Usage

“Ekpsucho” appears in the New Testament, where it plays a crucial role in depicting the last moments of Jesus Christ and others. Understanding its occurrences can shed light on pivotal biblical events.

In the Gospels

One of the most significant usages of “ekpsucho” is found in the Gospels, specifically in the accounts of Jesus’s crucifixion. In the Gospel of Mark (Mark 15:37), it says, “And Jesus uttered a loud cry, and breathed his last.” Here, “breathed his last” is translated from the Greek word “ekpsucho.” This moment captures the final expiration of Jesus’s life on the cross, underlining its importance in Christian faith as the moment of atonement for sins.

In Acts of the Apostles

Another significant instance of “ekpsucho” occurs in the Book of Acts. In Acts 5:5, Ananias, after lying about the proceeds from the sale of land, falls down and “breathed his last,” which again comes from “ekpsucho.” This narrative highlights the severe consequences of deceit and hypocrisy in the early Christian community.

In Acts 5:10, Sapphira, the wife of Ananias, also “breathed her last” after lying to Peter about the same matter. Acts 12:23 also uses “ekpsucho” to describe the death of King Herod, emphasizing divine justice.

Theological Implications

Understanding “ekpsucho” adds depth to these biblical stories. By recognizing that “ekpsucho” signifies the very last breath of life, these passages gain a heightened sense of finality and solemnity.

Reflecting on Jesus’s Last Breath

For Christians, Jesus’s last breath is not just a physical end but a divine moment packed with theological significance. It represents the completion of His earthly mission and the ultimate sacrifice for humanity’s sins. By using “ekpsucho,” the Gospel writers convey the weightiness of this event.

Jesus’s “ekpsucho” on the cross symbolizes the fulfillment of prophecy and the definitive moment of redemption. Understanding this term enriches our interpretation of the crucifixion scene, making it not just an ending but a profound moment of transformation and hope for believers.

Lessons from Ananias and Sapphira

The term also brings gravity to the stories of Ananias and Sapphira. Their “ekpsucho” signifies the immediate and unavoidable judgment from God. The sudden nature of their deaths serves as a stern warning about the importance of honesty and integrity within the Christian community.

Herod’s Demise and Divine Justice

When “ekpsucho” describes King Herod’s death, it emphasizes divine retribution. Herod’s death, attributed to his arrogance and failure to give God glory, underscores the power and justice of God. Understanding the use of “ekpsucho” here highlights that Herod’s end was not just a natural death but an act of divine intervention.

Broader Linguistic and Cultural Context

In broader Greek literature outside the Bible, “ekpsucho” often appears in poetic and dramatic works to describe the end of a character’s life. It adds a layer of drama and intensity, often used in highly emotional scenes. This usage in Greek culture can help us grasp the gravity the term carried for contemporary readers and listeners of the New Testament.

Comparisons with Other Terms for Death

The New Testament uses several other Greek terms to describe death, such as “apothnesko” (to die), “thanatos” (death), and “nekros” (dead). However, “ekpsucho” focuses particularly on the act of expiring one’s last breath, making it more vivid and dramatic. While “apothnesko” might simply state that someone has died, “ekpsucho” paints a picture of the final breath leaving the body, offering a richer, more descriptive portrayal.

Conclusion

“Ekpsucho,” a Greek term found in the New Testament, provides vital insights into key moments in biblical narratives. By understanding its meaning—”to breathe out” or “to expire”—and seeing how it is used in the context of Jesus’s crucifixion, the deaths of Ananias and Sapphira, and King Herod, we gain a deeper appreciation for the solemnity and significance of these Biblical events.

The term “ekpsucho” enhances our understanding of the weighty moments when life departs and opens up richer reflections on themes of sacrifice, judgment, and divine justice. Hence, exploring “ekpsucho” not only helps in grasping the historical linguistics of the New Testament but also offers profound theological reflections on the final moments of life as depicted in the Bible.