ἐπεκτείνομαι

I strain after

Definition

The verb ἐπεκτείνομαι means to stretch out or strain forward, often with intense effort and purpose. It conveys the idea of reaching toward a goal with one's whole being, like a runner leaning into the finish line. In its single New Testament occurrence in Philippians 3:13, the apostle Paul uses it metaphorically to describe his spiritual focus: 'forgetting what lies behind and straining forward to what lies ahead.' There is no significant distinction in meaning across different biblical passages, as it appears only once.

Biblical Usage

This word is used only once in the New Testament, in Philippians 3:13. Here, Paul employs it in a deeply personal and spiritual context to illustrate the focused, determined effort required in the Christian life. He pairs it with the metaphor of a runner in a race, emphasizing forward momentum and the rejection of past distractions. The usage is entirely metaphorical, describing a posture of the soul rather than a physical action.

Etymology

Derived from the preposition ἐπί (epi, meaning 'upon' or 'toward') and the verb ἐκτείνω (ekteinō, meaning 'to stretch out'). The compound form intensifies the base meaning, adding a sense of direction and purpose—'to stretch out toward.' It shares a root with words for extension and reaching.

Semantic Range

This word is theologically significant as it captures the active, disciplined nature of Christian sanctification and perseverance. Paul's use in Philippians 3:13-14 models a believer's singular focus on the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus. Understanding this Greek term enriches reading by highlighting that spiritual growth is not passive but involves a conscious, straining effort to pursue Christ, leaving behind past failures or successes.

In the Greco-Roman world, the imagery of an athlete straining in a contest, especially in foot races, was a common metaphor for moral and philosophical striving. Paul's audience would have immediately recognized this picture from the popular athletic games. The word implies a public, all-consuming effort toward a recognized goal, differing from a modern, more private understanding of personal development.

διώκω (diōkō, G1377) — to pursue or persecute; emphasizes active pursuit but can be hostile. ὀρέγω (oregō, G3713) — to reach out for or desire; focuses on the longing or stretching of desire, less on the strenuous effort.

Word Details

Scripture References