Introduction

Understanding Greek words in Biblical studies provides deeper insights into the meanings and contexts of Scripture. The Greek word ἐπιχειρέω (epicheireō), meaning “to undertake,” “to attempt,” or “to set one’s hand to,” is significant for its usage in both the New Testament and broader Greek literature. It often implies a deliberate effort or attempt to accomplish something, whether it be physical, mental, or spiritual. This word holds relevance for interpreting actions and intentions in the New Testament and gives us a glimpse into ancient Greek cultural values around action, effort, and intention.

Key Information

• The Greek Word: ἐπιχειρέω (epicheireō) [eh-pee-khay-REH-oh]
• Etymology: Derived from ἐπί (epi), meaning “upon” or “toward,” and χείρ (cheir), meaning “hand.” Combined, they convey the sense of putting one’s hand to something, i.e., undertaking or attempting an action.
• Part of Speech: Verb; used in various tenses to denote an ongoing or completed action.
• The F.O.G Word Choice: Coming Soon.

Primary Meanings

• To Undertake: To take on a task or mission, often involving deliberate planning or effort.
• To Attempt: To make an effort to accomplish or achieve something, which may or may not be successful.
• To Set About Doing Something: To begin or initiate a particular action or task.

Similar Words: προσπαθέω (prosphatheō) [pros-pa-THEH-oh], meaning “to strive” or “to attempt.” While προσπαθέω focuses on striving or making an effort, ἐπιχειρέω emphasizes the undertaking or initiation of an action, often with a sense of deliberate intent.

Further Insights: ἐπιχειρέω is often used in contexts where a significant decision or action is about to be made. The word is primarily in the active voice, but it also has forms in the middle and passive voices. Below is a table showing the conjugation in the present indicative active form:

Click here for a beginner’s guide to reading Greek: Understanding Greek Grammar: A Beginner’s Guide.

Lexicon Insights

BDAG:
Epicheireō is described as “to put one’s hand to something,” “to undertake,” or “to attempt,” often indicating an effort to perform an action that requires intentionality and decision-making.

Thayer’s Lexicon:
Explains epicheireō as “to put the hand upon,” which extends metaphorically to mean “to undertake” or “attempt to accomplish something.” Thayer notes its use in both practical and metaphorical contexts.

Vine’s Expository Dictionary:
Discusses epicheireō in the context of deliberate effort or intention, often used to describe someone taking action with a clear goal in mind, whether that goal is practical or theoretical.

LSJ (Liddell-Scott-Jones):
Lists epicheireō as “to attempt” or “to undertake,” particularly in classical texts, where it is used to describe both physical actions and more abstract endeavors like discussions or philosophical inquiries.

Strong’s Exhaustive Concordance:
Defines epicheireō as “to attempt” or “to undertake,” emphasizing the intention and effort behind the action, whether successful or not.

Related Scripture References

• Acts 9:29: “And he spoke boldly in the name of the Lord Jesus and disputed against the Hellenists, but they [ἐπεχείρουν (epicheiroun)] to kill him.”
• Acts 19:13: “Then certain of the vagabond Jews, exorcists, took upon them [ἐπεχείρησαν (epecheirēsan)] to call over them which had evil spirits the name of the Lord Jesus, saying, ‘We adjure you by Jesus whom Paul preaches.'”

Classical Usage

Summary of ἐπιχειρέω (G2021: epicheireō)

The Greek verb ἐπιχειρέω (epicheireō), meaning “to undertake” or “to attempt,” is used to express a range of actions that involve deliberate effort or intention. It appears in both the New Testament and classical Greek literature, highlighting its flexibility and depth in meaning. This word enriches the understanding of Biblical narratives by emphasizing the determination and intention behind actions. Understanding epicheireō sheds light on the importance of intention and effort in both spiritual and practical endeavors.

Did You Know?

Did you know that ἐπιχειρέω (epicheireō) is not just about trying to do something, but it also implies a commitment or risk associated with the action? In ancient Greek texts, this verb was often used to describe not only practical undertakings but also philosophical debates and military strategies, showing the breadth of its application in contexts where thoughtful decision-making was essential.