### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **énedron**, represented by `{{G1749}}`, refers to an **ambush** or a figurative **murderous design**. It appears only **1 time** in **1 unique verse** in the Bible. Its singular usage highlights a moment of specific, hidden danger described as **lying in wait**.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The sole appearance of `{{G1749}}` is in [[Acts 23:16]], which recounts a plot against the apostle Paul. The verse states that "Paul's sister's son heard of their **lying in wait**". This term captures the secretive and deadly nature of the conspiracy. The immediate action of the nephew—to go and enter the castle to tell Paul—underscores the gravity of the threat discovered and the urgency required to expose the **murderous design**.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words from the context of its use help frame the narrative around the ambush:
* `{{G191}}` **akoúō** (to hear): This verb is critical, as the plot was discovered because someone happened to **hear** it. The New Testament emphasizes the importance of hearing, both for receiving warnings and for receiving the word of God [[Ephesians 4:29]].
* `{{G3925}}` **parembolḗ** (encampment or barracks): This word identifies the secure location, the **castle**, where Paul was held and to which his nephew went for safety. It signifies a place of military protection, standing in contrast to the secret ambush being planned [[Acts 22:24]].
* `{{G518}}` **apangéllō** (to announce, tell): This describes the action taken to thwart the plot. The information was not merely heard, but was actively reported or **told** to Paul. This act of reporting is often used for declaring important news or testimony [[1 John 1:3]].
### Theological Significance
Though rare, the theological weight of `{{G1749}}` is found in the event it describes. It illustrates the peril faced by proponents of the gospel and the means by which such threats were overcome.
* **Conspiracy Against God's Messenger:** The "murderous design" was directed at the apostle Paul, a key figure in the spread of Christianity. The use of `{{G1749}}` marks the intense and deadly opposition he faced.
* **Exposure of Evil:** The narrative in [[Acts 23:16]] demonstrates that even secret plots and ambushes can be brought into the light. The foiling of the plan begins when the conspiracy is overheard by Paul's nephew.
* **Providential Intervention:** The discovery of the plan by Paul's own sister's son, who then warns him, highlights a theme of protection over God's servants, often through seemingly ordinary or familial means.
### Summary
In summary, `{{G1749}}` provides the specific term for a **murderous design** or **ambush**. Its single appearance in scripture is pivotal, defining the conspiracy against Paul in [[Acts 23:16]]. While its usage is limited, **énedron** powerfully captures a moment of concealed danger and illustrates how a wicked plot was exposed and thwarted through the courageous action of an individual who heard it.
TRV