### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **empíptō**, represented by `{{G1706}}`, means to **fall on** or **fall into**. It appears 7 times in 7 unique verses in the Bible. The word's meaning conveys the idea of being literally entrapped, as in falling into a pit, or figuratively overwhelmed, such as falling into temptation or judgment.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In its biblical usage, `{{G1706}}` is applied in both literal and figurative contexts. Literally, it describes an animal that has **fallen** into a **pit** `{{G999}}` on the Sabbath, prompting a question of its immediate rescue ([[Matthew 12:11]]; [[Luke 14:5]]). It is also used to describe the man who **fell** among **thieves** `{{G3027}}` in the parable of the Good Samaritan [[Luke 10:36]]. Figuratively, the term carries a strong sense of warning. An overseer must have a good reputation, lest he **fall** into **reproach** `{{G3680}}` and the **snare** `{{G3803}}` of the **devil** `{{G1228}}` [[1 Timothy 3:7]]. The most severe warning states that it is a **fearful thing** `{{G5398}}` to **fall** into the hands of the living God [[Hebrews 10:31]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the contexts in which one might **fall**:
* `{{G3986}}` **peirasmós** (temptation): This word for a trial or adversity is presented as a spiritual danger one can **fall** into, particularly for those who desire to be rich [[1 Timothy 6:9]]. It signifies a putting to proof that can lead to a negative outcome.
* `{{G3803}}` **pagís** (snare): Defined as a trap or stratagem, this word is used alongside `{{G1706}}` to illustrate being caught by temptation [[1 Timothy 6:9]] or the **devil** [[1 Timothy 3:7]].
* `{{G2917}}` **kríma** (condemnation): This term, meaning a decision or judgment, is the consequence a novice church leader might **fall** into if they become **lifted up with pride** `{{G5187}}` [[1 Timothy 3:6]].
* `{{G999}}` **bóthynos** (ditch, pit): This word for a hole in the ground represents the most literal danger associated with `{{G1706}}`, as seen in the example of a sheep that might **fall** into a **pit** [[Matthew 12:11]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G1706}}` is significant, highlighting the tangible consequences of moral and spiritual states.
* **The Danger of Pride:** A recurring theme is that pride precedes a fall. A new leader who becomes **lifted up with pride** `{{G5187}}` is in danger of falling into the **condemnation** `{{G2917}}` of the **devil** [[1 Timothy 3:6]].
* **The Trap of Worldly Desire:** The desire to **be rich** `{{G4147}}` is depicted as a path that leads people to **fall** into **temptation** `{{G3986}}` and a **snare** `{{G3803}}`, which ultimately **drown** `{{G1036}}` them in **destruction** `{{G3639}}` and **perdition** `{{G684}}` [[1 Timothy 6:9]].
* **Divine Judgment:** The most sobering use of the word points to inescapable divine reckoning. The act of falling into God's hands is not a plea for mercy but the arrival of a **fearful** `{{G5398}}` outcome for those who face His judgment [[Hebrews 10:31]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G1706}}` is a powerful word that illustrates a sudden and entrapping descent. While it can describe a literal event like falling into a **pit** [[Luke 14:5]], its primary theological function is to serve as a warning. It cautions that pride, worldly ambition, and a poor reputation can cause a person to **fall** into traps of condemnation, reproach, and temptation, with the ultimate consequence being an encounter with the fearful judgment of God.