### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **enedreúō**, represented by `{{G1748}}`, means **to lurk** or, figuratively, to plot assassination. It appears **2 times** in **2 unique verses**. This term specifically denotes the act of lying in wait with hostile intent, often as part of a conspiracy.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In its biblical usage, `{{G1748}}` describes malicious plots. In one instance, it portrays the efforts to entrap Jesus, where his enemies were **laying wait for** him, seeking to catch something from his mouth to use as a basis for an accusation [[Luke 11:54]]. In another, it describes a literal assassination plot where more than forty men **lie in wait for** Paul, having taken an oath not to eat or drink until they had killed him [[Acts 23:21]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words clarify the context and intent behind **enedreúō**:
* `{{G2212}}` **zētéō** (to seek (literally or figuratively); specially, (by Hebraism) to worship (God), or (in a bad sense) to plot (against life)): This word is paired with `{{G1748}}` to describe the active effort of the plotters who were **seeking** to catch Jesus in his words [[Luke 11:54]]. While it can be used positively, as in **seeking** God's kingdom [[Matthew 6:33]], in this context it denotes a malicious search for an opportunity.
* `{{G2723}}` **katēgoréō** (to be a plaintiff, i.e. to charge with some offence:--accuse): This term reveals the purpose of the ambush in [[Luke 11:54]], which was to find grounds to formally **accuse** Jesus. This same word is used for the charges brought against Jesus before his crucifixion [[Luke 23:2]].
* `{{G337}}` **anairéō** (to take up, i.e. adopt; by implication, to take away (violently), i.e. abolish, murder): This word shows the deadly intent of the plot in [[Acts 23:21]], where the men lying in wait intended to **kill** Paul. It signifies a violent and final objective.
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G1748}}` lies in its illustration of the nature of opposition to God's work.
* **Conspiratorial Opposition:** The act of "laying wait" highlights a method of attack that relies on secrecy and deception. It is not an open confrontation but a hidden plot, as seen in the conspiracy against Paul [[Acts 23:21]] and the attempt to entrap Jesus [[Luke 11:54]].
* **Malicious Intent:** The word is exclusively used to describe plots with destructive aims. The goal is either to discredit and formally **accuse** [[Luke 11:54]] or to violently **kill** the target [[Acts 23:21]].
* **Targeting God's Messengers:** Both scriptural uses of `{{G1748}}` are directed against key figures of the faith, Jesus and Paul. This demonstrates that such hidden plots are a recurring form of attack against those who proclaim God's message.
### Summary
In summary, `{{G1748}}` is a potent term for a malicious ambush. Though appearing only twice, it vividly portrays the conspiratorial and deadly opposition faced by both Jesus and Paul. It moves beyond a simple military tactic to a theological concept, illustrating the deceptive methods used by enemies of the faith to either entrap God's messengers with their words or to plot their assassination.