The Greek word epíthesis, represented by G1936, refers to an imposition, specifically the official laying on or putting on of hands. It appears 4 times across 4 unique verses in the Bible. This term denotes a formal, physical act intended to confer a spiritual reality.
In scripture, G1936 is used to describe a significant spiritual transaction. It is the action through which a gift G5486 from God was given to Timothy, both by the hands of Paul 2 Timothy 1:6 and with the hands of the presbytery 1 Timothy 4:14. The act is also connected to the impartation of the Holy Ghost G4151 by the apostles G652 Acts 8:18. Furthermore, the laying on of hands is listed among the foundational doctrines of the faith, alongside baptisms and the resurrection of the dead Hebrews 6:2.
Several related words clarify the context and significance of this act:
- G5495 cheír (the hand): This is the physical instrument through which the act of epíthesis is performed. All occurrences of laying on are specifically about the hands, such as "the laying on of the hands of the presbytery" 1 Timothy 4:14.
- G5486 chárisma (a (divine) gratuity... (spiritual) endowment): This is what is imparted or stirred up through the laying on of hands. Timothy is encouraged not to neglect the gift that was given to him through this act 1 Timothy 4:14 and to stir up the gift of God within him 2 Timothy 1:6.
- G4151 pneûma (a spirit... the Holy Spirit): The laying on of the apostles' hands was the means by which the Holy Ghost was given, demonstrating a direct link between the physical act and the work of the Spirit Acts 8:18.
- G652 apóstolos (a delegate... officially a commissioner of Christ ("apostle")): This term identifies those who performed the act, connecting the laying on of hands to apostolic authority and function within the early church Acts 8:18.
The theological significance of G1936 is demonstrated in several key areas:
- Conferral of Spiritual Gifts: The laying on of hands serves as a channel for the impartation of a divine gift G5486. Timothy received his gift in conjunction with prophecy G4394 and the laying on of hands from the presbytery 1 Timothy 4:14.
- Impartation of the Holy Spirit: This act is explicitly shown as the method by which the apostles conferred the Holy Ghost G4151 upon believers, highlighting its role in the Spirit's ministry in the church Acts 8:18.
- Foundational Christian Doctrine: Its inclusion in a list of core principles in Hebrews establishes the laying on of hands as a fundamental teaching. It is presented alongside baptisms G909, the resurrection G386 of the dead, and eternal judgment G2917 Hebrews 6:2.
- Act of Commission and Remembrance: Paul uses the memory of the putting on of his hands to remind Timothy to "stir up" his gift from God, linking the act to an ongoing responsibility and ministerial function 2 Timothy 1:6.
In summary, epíthesis G1936 is more than a simple touch; it is a prescribed, official act of the laying on of hands with profound spiritual purpose. It is presented in scripture as a foundational doctrine and a means for conferring spiritual gifts and the Holy Spirit. This term illustrates a key practice in the early church where a physical gesture was divinely appointed to signify and enact a spiritual reality.
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