NAS Word Usage – Total: 1

1. to go about in, walk in

The Linguistic Roots of Emperipateo

The word “Emperipateo” is derived from Greek, where “em” means “in” and “peripateo” means “to walk” or “to go about.” Literally translated, “Emperipateo” means “to walk around in” or “to go about within.” Unlike a casual stroll, it suggests an intentional and purposeful movement, often within a defined space.

Emperipateo in Ancient Greek Culture

In ancient Greek culture, walking or “peripateo” had philosophical overtones. Famous philosophers like Aristotle and the peripatetic school used walking as a method of teaching and contemplation. Such an approach indicated more than mere physical movement; it involved a journey of the mind and spirit. When used in Biblical texts, “Emperipateo” carries this deeper sense of intentional and meaningful action.

Biblical Usage of Emperipateo

The word “Emperipateo” appears in various forms in the New Testament, each context enriching its meaning. Some examples include:

Ephesians 2:10

“For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand, that we should walk (emperipateo) in them.”

In this verse, “Emperipateo” suggests living our lives within the moral and ethical framework that God has set for us. It’s not just about physical movement, but living in a manner that aligns with divine principles.

2 Corinthians 6:16

“What agreement has the temple of God with idols? For we are the temple of the living God; as God said, ‘I will make my dwelling among them and walk (emperipateo) among them, and I will be their God, and they shall be my people.'”

Here, “Emperipateo” signifies God’s active presence within the community of believers. God is said to “walk among” His people, implying an intimate and ongoing relationship.

Theological Implications of Emperipateo

When we break down the word “Emperipateo” in its biblical applications, it reveals several layers of theological meaning.

Divine Intimacy and Fellowship

As seen in 2 Corinthians 6:16, God’s “walking” among His people signifies an intimate relationship. The use of “Emperipateo” emphasizes that God is not distant but actively involved in the lives of believers.

Ethical and Moral Living

In Ephesians 2:10, believers are called to “walk” in good works. This denotes an ethical and spiritual journey that aligns with God’s preordained plans for humanity. The choice of “Emperipateo” rather than a simpler word for walking highlights deliberate, conscious actions.

Spiritual Pilgrimage

Biblically, “walking” often symbolizes the journey of faith. “Emperipateo” suggests a life lived in continuous alignment with God’s teachings, embodying the concept of a spiritual pilgrimage. It’s not merely about the destination but also about the journey and how one conducts oneself along the way.

Emperipateo vs. Other Greek Words for Walking

While “Emperipateo” carries a rich and layered meaning, other Greek words like “poreuomai” (to travel) and “badizo” (to walk) are also used in the New Testament. However, these words lack the depth of intentionality and inner space suggested by “Emperipateo.” “Poreuomai” often indicates a trip or journey, usually from one place to another, with no inherent spiritual or moral implications. “Badizo” suggests the act of walking itself, often without the connotations of a purposeful or ethically laden journey.

Practical Applications for Modern Believers

Understanding “Emperipateo” in its biblical context encourages modern readers to live intentionally and in line with their faith. Here’s how it can apply today:

Intentional Living

Just as “Emperipateo” suggests walking within a specific moral framework, contemporary believers can strive to live deliberately, aligning their daily actions with their faith principles.

Community and Presence

God’s “walking among” His people denotes fellowship and communal relationship. Modern congregations can internalize this by being present for one another, fostering a sense of collective spiritual growth.

Consistent Faith Journey

“Emperipateo” encourages believers to view life as a continuous spiritual journey. It’s a reminder that faith is not stationary but involves constant movement and growth within the bounds of Christian teachings.

Conclusion

The Greek word “Emperipateo” carries profound implications when understood within the context of the Bible. It suggests not just physical movement, but an intentional, ethically purposeful journey within the divine framework. In various New Testament passages, its use underscores the themes of divine intimacy, ethical living, and spiritual pilgrimage. For modern believers, embodying the spirit of “Emperipateo” can lead to a more intentional, community-focused, and growth-oriented faith journey.

By delving into the depths of words like “Emperipateo,” readers can uncover the rich tapestry of meanings that underpin Biblical teachings, drawing them closer to the text and to their faith