προσέχω and ἐπέχω
The Greek verbs προσέχω and ἐπέχω are both compound verbs built from ἔχω (“to have” or “to hold”), but they differ significantly in meaning, usage, and nuance due to their respective prepositions.
προσέχω (Take heed–attentiveness or devotion)
The Greek verb προσέχω (proséchō) primarily means “to pay attention to,” “to be alert,” or “to be cautious.” It is a compound verb formed from πρός (toward) and ἔχω (to have/hold), conveying the idea of holding toward something—thus implying attentiveness or devotion.
1 Timothy 4:1 – Paying attention to deceiving spirits and the teaching of demons.
Matthew 7:15 – Be attentive for false prophets.
Acts 16:14 – Paying attention to the words Paul spoke.
Titus 1:14 – Not giving heed to Jewish fables.
2 Peter 1:19 – Paying attention to the prophetic word confirmed.
ἐπέχω (Take heed–directing attention towards)
The Greek verb ἐπέχω (epéchō) has a range of meanings depending on context. It is a compound of ἐπί (upon) and ἔχω (to have/hold), and thus conveys the notion of holding upon, which semantically develops into meanings like “holding fast,” “directing attention toward,” or “delaying.”
Luke 14:7 – Noting how they chose the best places.
Acts 3:5 – Giving attention, expecting something.
Acts 19:22 – Delaying in Asia.
Philippians 2:16 – Holding fast the word of life.
1 Timothy 4:16 – Holding fast to yourself and to the teaching.
The Distinctions:
προσέχω emphasizes watchfulness, caution, or attentiveness in order to avoid error or danger.
ἐπέχω emphasizes holding onto, fixing attention on, or maintaining doctrinal or spiritual truth.
Both verbs reflect a kind of mental or spiritual discipline, but with distinct shades of meaning: προσέχω conveys proactive attention, ἐπέχω conveys firm retention or deliberate focus.