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.
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.
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.
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.
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