UBS Dictionary of the Greek New Testament

Sense 1: to return to, to go back to, to turn around

Semantic entry: 15.90

Semantic domains: Linear Movement

Subdomains: Return

Definition: to return to a point or area where one has been before, with probable emphasis on turning about

Sense 2: to turn to, to come to believe, to come to accept

Semantic entry: 31.60

Semantic domains: Hold a View, Believe, Trust

Subdomains: Change an Opinion Concerning Truth

Definition: to change one’s belief, with focus upon that to which one turns

Notes: In analyzing the meaning of στρέφω [source selector 000006][g], ἐπιστρέφω[b], and ἐπιστροφή[a] in such passages as RV GAL 4:9 · LV GAL 4:9 · Read together GAL 4:9 and RV PE1 2:25 · LV PE1 2:25 · Read together PE1 2:25, it is difficult to determine the extent to which belief or behavior is primarily in focus. In the case of RV PE1 2:25 · LV PE1 2:25 · Read together PE1 2:25, one could certainly argue that the emphasis is upon the interpersonal relationship. It is therefore essential in rendering these terms not to narrow the meaning too much, for in this way one would certainly do violence to certain crucial semantic features.

Sense 3: to cause to change belief, to cause to turn to

Semantic entry: 31.61

Semantic domains: Hold a View, Believe, Trust

Subdomains: Change an Opinion Concerning Truth

Definition: to cause a person to change belief, with focus upon that to which one turns

Sense 4: to change one’s ways, to turn to God, repentance

Semantic entry: 41.51

Semantic domains: Behavior and Related States

Subdomains: Change Behavior

Definition: to change one’s manner of life in a particular direction, with the implication of turning back to God

Notes: In a number of languages it is not sufficient to simply translate ‘to change one’s manner of life,’ for this could either be neutral or even suggest a change for the worse. Therefore, it may be necessary in a number of instances to translate ‘to change one’s way of living as God would want’ or ‘to change and live like God would want one to live.’

Sense 5: to make well-disposed toward, to make friendly toward, to cause to become acceptable

Semantic entry: 25.95

Semantic domains: Attitudes and Emotions

Subdomains: Acceptable To, To Be Pleased With

Definition: (an idiom, literally: to turn hearts to) to cause a change of attitude in a positive and acceptable direction

Collocations: ἐπιστρέφω καρδίας ἐπί

Sense 6: to turn around, to turn toward

Semantic entry: 16.13

Semantic domains: Non-Linear Movement

Definition: to turn around to or toward

Forms: ἐπιστρέφομαι