### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **epiboulḗ**, represented by `{{G1917}}`, describes **a plan against someone, i.e. a plot**. It appears **4 times** across **4 unique verses** in the Bible. The term specifically conveys the idea of "laying (lying) in wait" and is derived from a presumed compound of ἐπί and βούλομαι.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{G1917}}` consistently refers to hostile plots or ambushes. It is used exclusively in the book of Acts to describe conspiracies by the Jews against the apostles. For example, Paul recounts the trials that befell him due to the "**lying in wait** of the Jews" [[Acts 20:19]]. This term also describes the specific plot against Saul (Paul) in Damascus, where his opponents watched the city gates day and night to kill him, but their "**laying await** was known" [[Acts 9:24]]. The word is also used to describe a plot that forced Paul to change his travel plans from Syria to Macedonia [[Acts 20:3]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words illuminate the nature and context of these plots:
* `{{G1096}}` **gínomai** (to cause to be): This word is used to describe a plot coming into being. It signifies when the Jews "**laid** wait" for Paul, indicating the formation of the conspiracy [[Acts 20:3]].
* `{{G1097}}` **ginṓskō** (to know): This verb highlights the discovery of a plot. In Damascus, the conspiracy against Saul failed because their laying await "**was known**" [[Acts 9:24]].
* `{{G337}}` **anairéō** (to kill, slay): This term reveals the violent intention behind the plots. The conspirators in Damascus watched the gates with the specific purpose to "**kill**" Saul, an action often associated with these ambushes [[Acts 9:24]].
### Theological Significance
The use of `{{G1917}}` highlights a recurring theme of opposition and persecution in the early church.
* **Persecution as a Trial:** The plots are explicitly linked to the hardships faced by the apostles. Paul describes the "**lying in wait** of the Jews" as a source of the "**temptations**" `{{G3986}}` he endured while serving the Lord with humility and tears [[Acts 20:19]].
* **Hostility to the Gospel:** In every instance, `{{G1917}}` is used to describe plots by the Jews `{{G2453}}` against key figures spreading the Christian message, namely Paul. This demonstrates the intense opposition faced by the early apostles.
* **Divine Deliverance:** The failure of these plots underscores a theme of divine protection. A plot is thwarted when it "**was known**" [[Acts 9:24]], and another is foiled when it was "**told**" `{{G3377}}` to a commander, who then provides protection [[Acts 23:30]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G1917}}` is a specific term for a hostile plot or ambush. Its usage in the book of Acts paints a vivid picture of the dangers and persecution faced by the early church. It is not just a plan, but a malevolent "**lying in wait**" [[Acts 20:19]] intended to violently end the ministry of the apostles. The foiling of these plots, however, consistently demonstrates a higher authority at work, protecting the messengers of the gospel from their accusers `{{G2725}}`.
TRV