ἐπιλαμβάνομαι

I seize, take hold of

Definition

The verb ἐπιλαμβάνομαι means 'to take hold of' or 'to seize,' and its meaning varies based on context. In a positive, helping sense, it describes taking someone by the hand to assist or rescue them, as when Jesus takes hold of Peter to save him from sinking in Matthew 14:31. In a neutral or medical context, it can mean to take hold of a person for healing, as Jesus does with a blind man in Mark 8:23. Conversely, it can carry a hostile intent, meaning to arrest or seize someone with malicious purpose, such as the authorities seeking to lay hold of Jesus in Luke 20:20. It also appears in the sense of taking hold of an object, like Simon of Cyrene taking hold of the cross in Luke 23:26.

Biblical Usage

This verb is used 18 times in the New Testament, appearing in the Gospels and Acts. It often describes physical action with varying motives. In the Gospels, it frequently illustrates Jesus' compassionate touch in miracles (Mark 8:23) or rescue (Matthew 14:31), while also depicting the hostile plots of his opponents (Luke 20:20, 26). In Acts, it is used positively, as when Barnabas takes hold of Paul to introduce him to the apostles in Acts 9:27. The usage shows a pattern where the surrounding narrative determines whether the 'taking hold' is benevolent, neutral, or aggressive.

Etymology

Derived from the preposition ἐπί (epi, meaning 'upon' or 'over') combined with the verb λαμβάνομαι (lambanomai, 'to take' or 'to receive'). The compound emphasizes the idea of taking hold upon something or someone, often with a sense of direct physical contact or intervention. This construction intensifies the basic action of taking, adding a layer of purpose or direction.

Semantic Range

This word is theologically significant as it vividly portrays both divine grace and human hostility toward Jesus. In passages like Matthew 14:31, it illustrates Christ's saving intervention—He literally takes hold of Peter in his moment of doubt, symbolizing His rescue of believers. Conversely, in Luke 20:20, the same word describes the religious leaders' attempt to seize Jesus, highlighting the conflict leading to the crucifixion. Understanding this range of meaning enriches reading by revealing how physical actions in the Gospels carry deep spiritual implications about rescue, healing, and opposition.

In the ancient Mediterranean world, taking someone by the hand was a common gesture of guidance, protection, or authority, especially from a superior to an inferior. This cultural practice informs the positive uses of the word, where Jesus' touch conveys care and power. The hostile sense aligns with legal or forceful seizure, a action familiar in contexts of arrest or capture. The word's flexibility reflects a society where physical grasp could signal either benevolence or control, depending on the relationship and situation.

κρατέω (krateō, G2902) — emphasizes holding firmly or retaining, often with authority or control. λαμβάνω (lambanō, G2983) — the simpler root meaning to take or receive, without the intensive 'upon' prefix. ἅπτω (haptō, G680) — focuses on touching or handling, sometimes with a lighter, more contact-oriented sense.

Word Details

Scripture References