G2013
Introduction
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Understanding Greek words in Biblical studies is crucial for interpreting the New Testament and gaining insights into ancient Greek culture. The word ἐπιτυγχάνω (Strong’s G2013: epitynchánō) is particularly significant as it denotes the concept of attaining, obtaining, or reaching a goal. This verb is often used in contexts involving achieving success or obtaining favor, making it important for understanding both spiritual and practical aspects of New Testament teachings. By exploring the meanings and usage of epitynchánō, we gain a deeper understanding of how goals and achievements were perceived in ancient times.
Key Information
- The Greek Word: ἐπιτυγχάνω (epitynchánō) [eh-pee-TOONG-khah-no]
- Etymology: The word is derived from the prefix ἐπι- (epi-), meaning “upon” or “toward,” and the verb τυγχάνω (tynchánō), meaning “to happen,” “to obtain,” or “to hit the mark.” Together, epitynchánō conveys the idea of successfully reaching or obtaining something.
- Part of Speech: Verb; present active indicative, with applicable grammatical details showing conjugation patterns typical for Greek verbs.
- The F.O.G Word Choice: Coming Soon.
Primary Meanings
- To obtain or receive.
- To attain or achieve.
- To reach a goal or outcome.
Similar Words: τυγχάνω (tynchánō) [toong-KHA-no] is related to epitynchánō but is more general, meaning “to happen” or “to obtain.” While tynchánō can refer to any kind of attainment, epitynchánō specifically implies a directed effort or goal-oriented success.
Further Insights: ἐπιτυγχάνω is a verb that follows typical Greek verb conjugation patterns. It can be used in different tenses to convey various aspects of achieving or obtaining something. For example, the aorist tense would emphasize a one-time achievement, while the present tense could indicate ongoing success or effort.
| Tense | Active | Middle/Passive |
|---|---|---|
| Present | ἐπιτυγχάνω (epitynchánō) | ἐπιτυγχάνομαι (epitynchánomai) |
| Future | ἐπιτυχήσω (epitychḗsō) | ἐπιτυχήσομαι (epitychḗsomai) |
| Aorist | ἐπέτυχον (epétychon) | ἐπετυχόμην (epetychómēn) |
| Perfect | ἐπιτύχηκα (epitýchēka) | ἐπιτύχημαι (epitýchēmai) |
Click here for a beginner’s guide to reading Greek: Understanding Greek Grammar: A Beginner’s Guide.
Lexicon Insights
BDAG:
ἐπιτυγχάνω is defined as “to attain” or “to obtain,” often used in contexts involving divine favor, goals, or outcomes. It emphasizes the successful reaching of a target or objective.
Thayer’s Lexicon:
Describes epitynchánō as “to obtain,” particularly in contexts where effort or striving leads to success. The word can also imply gaining favor or achieving a desired result.
Vine’s Expository Dictionary:
Notes that epitynchánō conveys the idea of “attaining” or “acquiring,” especially when directed toward a specific end or purpose.
LSJ (Liddell-Scott-Jones):
Highlights that epitynchánō means “to succeed” or “to hit the mark,” especially in classical Greek where it often describes physical or metaphorical targets.
Strong’s Exhaustive Concordance:
Defines epitynchánō as “to obtain” or “to attain,” focusing on its usage to describe achieving a goal or obtaining something that was sought after.
Related Scripture References
- Romans 11:7: “What then? Israel hath not obtained that which he seeketh for; but the election hath obtained [ἐπέτυχεν (epétychen)] it, and the rest were blinded.”
This verse uses epitynchánō to describe the act of obtaining or achieving something, in this case, divine favor or selection.
Classical Usage
| Author | Name of Work | English Text |
|---|---|---|
| Plato | Laws | “He who aims to succeed (ἐπιτυγχάνω) must first learn discipline.” |
| Herodotus | Histories | “The general’s strategy was to ensure that his forces would attain (ἐπιτυγχάνω) victory.” |
| Xenophon | Cyropaedia | “To achieve (ἐπιτυγχάνω) one’s goals requires more than mere luck; it requires skill and wisdom.” |
| Septuagint | Esther 9:25 (LXX) | “But when Esther came before the king, he commanded by letters that his wicked device, which he devised against the Jews, should return upon his own head, and that he and his sons should be hanged on the gallows.” (ἐπιτυγχάνω) |
| Septuagint | Psalm 21:1 (LXX) | “The king shall joy in thy strength, O LORD; and in thy salvation how greatly shall he rejoice!” (ἐπιτυγχάνω) |
| Septuagint | Proverbs 2:4 (LXX) | “If thou seekest her as silver, and searchest for her as for hid treasures;” (ἐπιτυγχάνω) |
Summary of ἐπιτυγχάνω (G2013: epitynchánō)
The Greek word ἐπιτυγχάνω (epitynchánō), meaning “to obtain,” “to achieve,” or “to attain,” is a verb that captures the concept of reaching or accomplishing a goal, whether through effort, favor, or skill. In the New Testament (Romans 11:7), it describes obtaining divine favor or achieving a sought-after result, reflecting its broader usage in both classical Greek literature and the Septuagint. Understanding epitynchánō provides valuable insights into the ancient Greek and Biblical perspectives on success, achievement, and divine favor, highlighting the importance of intention, effort, and divine will in reaching desired outcomes.
Did You Know?
Did you know that ἐπιτυγχάνω shares its root with τυγχάνω, which means “to happen” or “to obtain”? While tynchánō can be more general, covering the idea of something occurring or being received, epitynchánō adds the prefix ἐπι- (epi-), emphasizing direction or focus. This subtle difference shows how the Greek language can nuance meanings, turning a general occurrence into a deliberate or directed effort toward a goal, reflecting both the practical and spiritual dimensions of achievement in ancient contexts.