Brief Overview of ἐπιλαμβάνομαι (Strong’s G1949: epilambánomai)

Introduction

Understanding Greek words in Biblical studies enhances our comprehension of the scriptures and the culture from which they emerged. The Greek word ἐπιλαμβάνομαι (epilambánomai), Strong’s G1949, is particularly significant for interpreting passages where actions such as taking hold of, seizing, or grasping are described. This verb often carries metaphorical meanings in the New Testament, offering deeper insights into the intent and emotions behind the actions. In ancient Greek culture, this word had a broad application, from physical actions to more abstract ideas like comprehending or taking hold of concepts.

Key Information

• The Greek Word: ἐπιλαμβάνομαι (epilambánomai) [eh-pee-lam-BAH-noh-my]
• Etymology root words and their meanings: From ἐπί (epi, “upon”) and λαμβάνω (lambánō, “to take” or “to receive”), meaning “to take hold of” or “to seize upon.”
• Part of Speech: Verb. It follows typical Greek verb conjugation patterns for middle and passive forms.
• The F.O.G Word Choice: Coming Soon.

Primary Meanings

• To seize, grasp, or take hold of something or someone.
• To take possession of or receive something.
• To understand or comprehend by “taking hold” of a concept or idea.
• To help or assist by reaching out to take hold of someone.

Similar Words: Related Greek words include λαμβάνω (lambánō) [lam-BAH-noh], meaning “to take” or “to receive,” and καταλαμβάνω (katalambánō) [ka-ta-lam-BAH-noh], meaning “to seize” or “to comprehend.” While ἐπιλαμβάνομαι (epilambánomai) emphasizes the act of taking hold upon something or someone with a purpose, λαμβάνω is more general and can refer to any act of taking or receiving, and καταλαμβάνω often carries a sense of overpowering or comprehensively understanding.

Further Insights: The verb ἐπιλαμβάνομαι is in the middle voice, which often conveys a reflexive or self-involved action. This can imply that the subject is actively involved in the process of taking hold of something or someone. The prefix ἐπί (epi) intensifies the action, suggesting a deliberate or focused effort in seizing or grasping. For example, in some New Testament contexts, it is used when Jesus or the apostles “take hold” of a situation, person, or concept, often to signify a deeper, purposeful engagement.
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Lexicon Insights

• BDAG: Defines ἐπιλαμβάνομαι as “to take hold of” or “to seize,” with a focus on deliberate and purposeful action, whether physically or metaphorically. It is often used in contexts involving helping, grasping, or taking control.
• Thayers: Provides meanings such as “to seize upon” or “to take hold of,” particularly when one reaches out to assist or comprehend. This lexicon notes its use in passages that involve intervention or engagement.
• Vines: Highlights that ἐπιλαμβάνομαι often involves a forceful or intentional action of taking hold or grasping. It can be used metaphorically for comprehending or understanding concepts by “taking hold” of them mentally.
• LSJ: Notes that in classical Greek literature, ἐπιλαμβάνομαι is used to mean “to seize upon,” often in legal, philosophical, or rhetorical contexts, where it can indicate taking possession, control, or even helping someone.
• Strong’s Exhaustive Concordance: Describes ἐπιλαμβάνομαι as “to take hold of” or “to seize upon,” emphasizing its use in contexts of helping, assisting, or physically grasping something.

Related Scripture References

• Luke 9:47: “But Jesus, knowing the reasoning of their hearts, took (ἐπιλαβόμενος) a child and put him by his side.”
• Acts 9:27: “But Barnabas took (ἐπιλαβόμενος) him and brought him to the apostles and declared to them how on the road he had seen the Lord.”
• 1 Timothy 6:12: “Fight the good fight of the faith. Take hold (ἐπιλαβοῦ) of the eternal life to which you were called.”
• Hebrews 2:16: “For surely it is not angels that he helps (ἐπιλαμβάνεται), but he helps the offspring of Abraham.”
• Mark 8:23: “And he took (ἐπιλαβόμενος) the blind man by the hand and led him out of the village.”

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Classical Usage

Summary of ἐπιλαμβάνομαι (G1949)

The Greek word ἐπιλαμβάνομαι (epilambánomai) is a versatile verb that means “to take hold of,” “to seize upon,” or “to grasp.” It appears frequently in both Biblical and classical Greek texts, often conveying a sense of deliberate or purposeful action. In the New Testament, it is used to describe both physical actions (such as Jesus taking a child or leading a blind man) and metaphorical ones (such as grasping eternal life). Its application in classical literature reflects a broad spectrum of meanings from seizing physical objects to understanding abstract concepts. This makes it an important word for understanding contexts involving grasping, helping, or taking decisive action.

Did You Know?

The verb ἐπιλαμβάνομαι is not only about physically grabbing hold of something but also carries rich metaphorical meanings in philosophical and theological contexts. For example, Aristotle uses it to describe the action of “grasping” virtues, while in the New Testament, it is used to depict taking hold of eternal life or divine truth. This shows how ancient Greek thinkers and Biblical authors alike valued the concept of actively engaging with important truths and principles, whether in daily life, ethics, or faith.