### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **epicheiréō**, represented by `{{G2021}}`, is derived from ἐπί and χείρ, literally meaning to put the hand upon. It is used to describe an undertaking or attempt, translated as to **go about** or **take in hand**. It appears **3 times** across **3 unique verses** in the Bible, indicating a specific but significant usage.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In its biblical occurrences, `{{G2021}}` describes the initiation of a significant action, whether positive or negative. In Luke's gospel, it is used to describe how many have **taken in hand** the task of compiling a narrative of the events concerning Jesus [[Luke 1:1]]. In Acts, the word appears twice with darker connotations. It describes the Grecians who, after disputing with Saul, **went about** to slay him [[Acts 9:29]]. It is also used for the vagabond Jewish exorcists who **took upon them** the task of using the name of Jesus to cast out evil spirits, an act for which they had no authority [[Acts 19:13]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words clarify the nature of the action being undertaken with `{{G2021}}`:
* `{{G392}}` **anatássomai** (to arrange:--set in order): This is used with `{{G2021}}` to describe the orderly task of compiling a narrative [[Luke 1:1]]. The undertaking was to **set forth in order** a declaration.
* `{{G337}}` **anairéō** (to take up, i.e. adopt; by implication, to take away (violently), i.e. abolish, murder:--put to death, kill, slay, take away, take up): This word reveals the violent intent of those who **went about** to **slay** him [[Acts 9:29]].
* `{{G3687}}` **onomázō** (to name, i.e. assign an appellation; by extension, to utter, mention, profess:--call, name): This specifies the action of the exorcists who **took upon them** to **call** on the name of Jesus, an act they were not authorized to perform [[Acts 19:13]].
### Theological Significance
The use of `{{G2021}}` highlights the significance of human initiative and the nature of an attempt. The context determines whether the undertaking is noble, malicious, or presumptuous.
* **Orderly Initiative:** In [[Luke 1:1]], the act of taking something in hand is presented as a diligent and purposeful effort to create an ordered account for the benefit of believers.
* **Hostile Intent:** The word is used to frame the deliberate and hostile plot against the early church, where opponents **went about** to murder a follower of Jesus [[Acts 9:29]]. This shows human will set in opposition to the divine.
* **Presumptuous Action:** The exorcists in [[Acts 19:13]] **took upon them** a spiritual task without a proper relationship with the authority they invoked. Their undertaking demonstrates a misuse of holy things.
### Summary
In summary, `{{G2021}}` **epicheiréō** defines the act of "putting one's hand to" a task. While its usage is infrequent, its context is powerful, illustrating a range of human endeavors. It can describe a praiseworthy effort to document sacred history [[Luke 1:1]], a deadly plot born from opposition [[Acts 9:29]], or a foolish and unauthorized attempt to control spiritual power [[Acts 19:13]]. The word underscores that the value of an undertaking is defined by the intent and authority behind it.
TRV