### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
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.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
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]].
### Related Words & Concepts
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]].
### Theological Significance
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]].
### Summary
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.
TRV