G1108: Gnosis: (from G1097, Ginosko) knowing, knowledge
<p>Don's understanding of the word:
Gnosis + epi provides the meaning of knowledge (gnosis) specifically applied (epi); e.g. knowledge "on" something or "unto" some specific objective.</p>
<p>
For example, epignosis is used in Col 2.2 where the knowledge in view is about a specific topic, the mystery of Christ Himself. In Col 2.3 the word used is gnosis since general, or all knowledge is in view.</p>
<p>
<b>Colossians 2:1-3 (NASB) </b>
<sup>1 </sup> For I want you to know how great a struggle I have on your behalf and for those who are at Laodicea, and for all those who have not personally seen my face,
<sup>2 </sup> that their hearts may be encouraged, having been knit together in love, and <i>attaining</i> to all the wealth that comes from the full assurance of understanding, <i>resulting</i> in a true knowledge of God's mystery, <i>that is,</i> Christ <i>Himself,</i>
<sup>3 </sup> in whom are hidden all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge.</p>
<p>
Gnosis and Epignosis are very close in NT meaning and differences in their usages are often subtle or difficult to discern.g5287</p>