from ἐπί and βάλλω; to throw upon (literal or figurative, transitive or reflexive; usually with more or less force); specially (with ἑαυτοῦ implied) to reflect; impersonally, to belong to:--beat into, cast (up-)on, fall, lay (on), put (unto), stretch forth, think on.
### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **epibállō**, represented by `{{G1911}}`, is a versatile term meaning to throw or cast upon, often with force. It appears **19 times** across **18 unique verses** in the Bible. Its meaning is broad, encompassing literal actions like putting one object on another, figurative uses like reflecting on a thought, and hostile acts such as laying hands on someone for arrest.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{G1911}}` is used in several distinct contexts. It most frequently describes the act of seizure or arrest, as when the chief priests and scribes sought to **lay** hands on Jesus [[Luke 20:19]], or when soldiers **laid** hands on the apostles and put them in prison [[Acts 5:18]]. The word is also used in a literal sense, such as in the parable where Jesus speaks of a man who **putteth** a piece of new cloth onto an old garment [[Matthew 9:16]]. In a unique instance, it describes Peter's intense reflection leading to repentance: when he **thought thereon**, he wept [[Mark 14:72]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the meaning of `{{G1911}}`:
* `{{G1915}}` **epíblēma** (a patch): Derived directly from `{{G1911}}`, this noun refers to a piece of cloth. It appears in Jesus' parable about not **putteth** `{{G1911}}` a **piece** of a new garment on an old one [[Luke 5:36]].
* `{{G5495}}` **cheír** (hand): This word for **hand** is frequently paired with `{{G1911}}` to form the idiom for arresting someone. For instance, in the garden, they **laid** `{{G1911}}` their **hands** on Jesus and took him [[Mark 14:46]].
* `{{G1029}}` **bróchos** (a snare): This term for a noose is used figuratively with `{{G1911}}` when Paul clarifies that his teaching is not intended to **cast** a **snare** upon the Corinthians [[1 Corinthians 7:35]].
* `{{G3776}}` **ousía** (goods, substance): This word for property appears where the prodigal son asks for the portion of **goods** that **falleth** `{{G1911}}` to him, demonstrating the impersonal sense of "to belong to" [[Luke 15:12]].
### Theological Significance
The conceptual weight of `{{G1911}}` is significant, often marking moments of conflict or deep personal decision.
* **Initiating Persecution:** The word is repeatedly used to signify the physical act that begins persecution. Herod **stretched forth** his hands to vex the church [[Acts 12:1]], and authorities **laid** hands on the apostles to imprison them [[Acts 4:3]].
* **Illustrating Incompatibility:** Jesus uses the word in parables to show the incompatibility of the new covenant with old traditions. The act of **putteth** a new patch on an old garment only makes the rent worse, illustrating that His message is not a simple repair but a new creation [[Matthew 9:16]].
* **Commitment and Reflection:** The word defines both unwavering commitment and profound repentance. A true disciple is one who has **put** his hand to the plough and does not look back [[Luke 9:62]]. It also captures the moment Peter **thought thereon** and wept, a pivotal point of remorse [[Mark 14:72]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G1911}}` is far more than a simple verb of action. While its core meaning is "to cast upon," its application ranges from the literal act of placing a patch on cloth to the violent act of arresting Jesus and His followers. It powerfully illustrates key theological concepts, marking moments of hostility, demonstrating spiritual principles through parables, and conveying the depth of human commitment and repentance.
TRV