### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **ekteínō**, represented by `{{G1614}}`, is a verb that means to extend or to **stretch forth (out)**. Its base definition comes from combining ἐκ and teino (to stretch). It appears **16 times** across **14 unique verses** in the Bible, often describing a decisive physical gesture that precedes a significant action.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In biblical narratives, `{{G1614}}` is frequently used to describe an action taken by Jesus. He is shown to **put forth** his hand to touch and cleanse a man with leprosy ([[Matthew 8:3]], [[Luke 5:13]], [[Mark 1:41]]). The term also describes the very moment of rescue when Jesus **stretched forth** his hand to save a doubting Peter from the water [[Matthew 14:31]]. The word can also carry a sense of hostility or aggression, as when one of Jesus's companions **stretched out** his hand to draw a sword [[Matthew 26:51]], or when Jesus noted that his enemies in the temple **stretched forth** no hands against him [[Luke 22:53]]. In other contexts, it is a simple gesture, as when Paul **stretched forth** his hand to begin his defense [[Acts 26:1]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the context and impact of `{{G1614}}`:
* `{{G5495}}` **cheír** (the hand): This word is almost always used in conjunction with `{{G1614}}`, as the hand is the instrument being extended. It is through the **hand** that power is conveyed, whether for healing, rescue, or aggression [[Matthew 14:31]].
* `{{G600}}` **apokathístēmi** (to reconstitute... restore): This word describes the result of Jesus's command to stretch forth a withered hand. Upon being extended, the hand was **restored** whole ([[Mark 3:5]], [[Matthew 12:13]]).
* `{{G3960}}` **patássō** (to knock... smite, strike): This action is the direct result of someone stretching forth their hand with violent intent. In [[Matthew 26:51]], a disciple stretched out his hand, drew a sword, and **struck** a servant of the high priest.
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G1614}}` is demonstrated in its use to signify divine or human will put into action.
* **Initiating Divine Power:** The act of Jesus stretching forth His hand is consistently a prelude to a miraculous event. It is the physical motion that initiates healing for the leper [[Matthew 8:3]], restoration for the man with the withered hand [[Matthew 12:13]], and salvation for a sinking disciple [[Matthew 14:31]].
* **A Channel for Healing:** In the book of Acts, believers pray that God would grant healing by **stretching forth** His hand, directly associating the action with supernatural cures, signs, and wonders done in Jesus' name [[Acts 4:30]].
* **Expression of Human Volition:** The term is also used for human actions, indicating a point of decision. It is used to describe an act of violence [[Matthew 26:51]], a gesture of public speaking [[Acts 26:1]], and even a state of future submission, as prophesied for Peter [[John 21:18]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G1614}}` is more than a simple description of movement. It is a powerful verb signifying the extension of one's reach to effect change. Whether it is God stretching forth his hand to perform signs and wonders or a person extending their hand in an act of will, the word **ekteínō** marks a moment of deliberate and consequential action, bridging the gap between intention and impact.
TRV