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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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