middle voice from ἐπί and λαμβάνω; to seize (for help, injury, attainment, or any other purpose; literally or figuratively):--catch, lay hold (up-)on, take (by, hold of, on).
### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **epilambánomai**, represented by `{{G1949}}`, means to **seize**, **catch**, or **lay hold upon**. It appears 20 times across 18 unique verses in the Bible. The term is versatile, describing actions taken for help, for injury, or for the purpose of spiritual attainment. Its meaning ranges from a literal, physical grasp to a figurative, determined pursuit.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In biblical narratives, `{{G1949}}` is used to convey a variety of intentions. It depicts divine rescue, as when Jesus **stretched forth** his hand and **caught** a doubting Peter from sinking into the water [[Matthew 14:31]]. It can also show human support, such as when Barnabas **took** Saul and brought him to the apostles, vouching for his conversion [[Acts 9:27]]. Conversely, it describes hostile actions, such as when an angry mob **took** Paul and drew him out of the temple [[Acts 21:30]] or when spies tried to **take hold** of Jesus' words to entrap him [[Luke 20:20]]. The word is also used to describe Christ's incarnation, stating that he **took on** him the seed of Abraham [[Hebrews 2:16]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the context and purpose of the action of seizing:
* `{{G5495}}` **cheír** (the hand): This word is often paired with `{{G1949}}` to specify the means of seizing. It highlights direct physical contact, whether for help, as when Jesus **took** a blind man by the **hand** to heal him [[Mark 8:23]], or for guidance, as when God **took** Israel by the **hand** to lead them out of Egypt [[Hebrews 8:9]].
* `{{G1670}}` **helkýō** (to drag): This term can follow `{{G1949}}` to describe the forceful action that comes after a hostile seizure. For example, after Paul and Silas were **caught**, they were then **drew** them into the marketplace [[Acts 16:19]].
* `{{G1806}}` **exágō** (to lead forth): In contrast to a forceful dragging, this word often denotes a purpose of deliverance or guidance. God **took** Israel by the hand specifically to **lead** them **out of** Egypt [[Hebrews 8:9]], showing a benevolent intention behind the act of taking hold.
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G1949}}` is significant, highlighting key spiritual concepts.
* **Spiritual Attainment:** The command to "**lay hold on** eternal life" ([[1 Timothy 6:12]]; [[1 Timothy 6:19]]) frames the Christian walk as an active pursuit. It is connected to fighting the **good** `{{G2570}}` fight of **faith** `{{G4102}}`, portraying eternal **life** `{{G2222}}` as a prize to be intentionally seized.
* **Divine Intervention:** The term powerfully illustrates God's direct intervention. Jesus **catching** Peter is a picture of his readiness to save those with wavering faith [[Matthew 14:31]]. Similarly, Barnabas **took** him [[Acts 9:27]] and acted as an agent of the church to bring a new believer into the community.
* **Incarnational Identification:** A profound theological truth is conveyed when Hebrews states that Christ **took on** him the seed of Abraham, not the nature of angels [[Hebrews 2:16]]. This deliberate act of "taking on" humanity is central to his ability to serve as a redeemer.
### Summary
In summary, `{{G1949}}` is a dynamic verb that moves beyond a simple physical grasp. It captures a wide spectrum of actions, from a hostile seizure [[Acts 18:17]] and a gentle, healing touch [[Luke 14:4]] to a life-saving rescue [[Matthew 14:31]]. Theologically, it defines the believer's active responsibility to **lay hold on** eternal life [[1 Timothy 6:12]] and, most importantly, articulates the foundational truth that Christ **took on** human nature in order to bring about salvation [[Hebrews 2:16]].
TRV