Corresponding Greek / Hebrew Entries: While there is no direct Hebrew equivalent for ἐπισφαλής, similar concepts of instability and insecurity can be found in Hebrew words such as מוֹט (môt, Strong's H4131), which means "to totter" or "to shake," and רָעַע (ra'a, Strong's H7489), which can mean "to be bad" or "to be evil," but also conveys a sense of breaking down or being unstable. These terms reflect the broader biblical theme of the contrast between the instability of human endeavors and the stability found in God.

Usage: The word ἐπισφαλής is not frequently used in the New Testament. It appears in contexts where the precariousness or instability of a situation is being highlighted. It is used to describe conditions that are not secure or are prone to failure.

Context: The Greek term ἐπισφαλής is a descriptive adjective that captures the essence of instability and insecurity. In the New Testament, it is used to illustrate the precarious nature of certain situations or conditions, often in a metaphorical sense. The root of the word, σφάλλω, implies a sense of stumbling or falling, which is intensified by the prefix ἐπί, suggesting an overarching or impending sense of instability.

In the broader context of biblical literature, ἐπισφαλής can be understood as a warning against placing trust in uncertain or unreliable foundations, whether they be material, spiritual, or relational. The term serves as a reminder of the importance of building one's life on a firm and secure foundation, as emphasized in various biblical teachings.

The concept of instability is a recurring theme in the Bible, often contrasted with the steadfastness and reliability of God's promises and the security found in a life grounded in faith. The use of ἐπισφαλής in the New Testament underscores the transient and unreliable nature of worldly pursuits and the need for a stable anchor in the divine.