ἐνεδρεύω

I lie in wait for, seek to entrap, defraud, deceive

Definition

The verb ἐνεδρεύω means to lie in wait or ambush, with the intent to entrap or ensnare someone. In a figurative sense, it extends to seeking to deceive or defraud through cunning schemes. In Luke 11:54, the scribes and Pharisees are 'lying in wait' to catch Jesus in his words, showing its use for verbal entrapment. In Acts 23:21, it describes a literal, physical ambush planned by more than forty men to kill Paul.

Biblical Usage

This word is used only twice in the New Testament, both times describing hostile plots against key figures. In Luke 11:54, it depicts the religious leaders' ongoing, secretive efforts to trap Jesus in his teaching. In Acts 23:21, it describes a concrete, violent conspiracy to ambush and murder the apostle Paul. Both contexts involve planned, deceptive hostility from opponents of God's messengers.

Etymology

Derived from the noun ἔνεδρα (enedra), meaning 'an ambush' or 'lying in wait.' It is related to the verb ἑδραῖος (hedraios), meaning 'settled' or 'steadfast,' which ironically contrasts with the stealthy, unsettled action of an ambush. The core idea is setting a hidden trap from a fixed position.

Semantic Range

This word highlights the spiritual conflict faced by Jesus and the apostles, revealing the deceptive tactics used by opponents of the gospel. Understanding this Greek term enriches reading by emphasizing the deliberate, cunning nature of these attacks, which contrasts with God's openness and truth. It underscores themes of persecution, spiritual warfare, and the need for divine protection and wisdom, as seen in Jesus' and Paul's deliverance from these plots.

In the 1st-century Mediterranean world, ambushes (ἔνεδρα) were a recognized military and bandit tactic. The term would evoke not just surprise attack, but also the shame associated with deceitful, underhanded methods as opposed to honorable, open confrontation. This cultural backdrop makes the accusations against the religious leaders in Luke 11:54 particularly sharp, as they are employing tactics considered dishonorable.

παγιδεύω (pagideuō, G3802) — to trap or snare, often more general than a planned ambush; δολιόω (dolioō, G1387) — to deceive or use treachery, focusing on the deceitful intent rather than the method of lying in wait.

Word Details

Scripture References