### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **ephállomai**, represented by `{{G2177}}`, means **to spring upon** or **leap on**. It is a compound word derived from `{{G1909}}` **epí**, meaning “upon,” and ἅλλομαι. Appearing only **1 time** in **1 unique verse**, its usage in scripture points to a single, dramatic moment of violent action.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The sole biblical use of `{{G2177}}` is in [[Acts 19:16]]. The verse describes a **man** `{{G444}}` in whom an **evil** `{{G4190}}` **spirit** `{{G4151}}` **was** `{{G2258}}`. This man **leaped** `{{G2177}}` **on** `{{G1909}}` several individuals, a sudden and aggressive act. The result of this action was that he **overcame** `{{G2634}}` them and **prevailed** `{{G2480}}` against them, forcing them to **fled** `{{G1628}}` from the **house** `{{G3624}}` **naked** `{{G1131}}` and **wounded** `{{G5135}}`.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words from its context clarify the nature of this event:
* `{{G1909}}` **epí** (upon): As a component of **ephállomai**, this preposition establishes the target of the assault, describing an action directed **upon** someone or something [[Luke 4:18]].
* `{{G2634}}` **katakyrieúō** (overcame): This term defines the result of the leap, which was to **exercise dominion over** or subjugate the targets of the attack [[Matthew 20:25]].
* `{{G5135}}` **traumatízō** (wounded): This word describes the physical harm inflicted as a direct consequence of the attack, showing that the leap was part of an action meant to inflict a wound [[Luke 20:12]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G2177}}` is concentrated in its single, vivid appearance, illustrating key spiritual principles.
* **Spiritual Conflict:** The action of "leaping on" demonstrates the violent and tangible nature of spiritual warfare. An **evil** `{{G4190}}` **spirit** `{{G4151}}` acts through a **man** `{{G444}}` to carry out a physical assault [[Acts 19:16]].
* **Demonstration of Power:** The leap is directly connected to the words **overcame** `{{G2634}}` and **prevailed** `{{G2480}}`. This sequence highlights the genuine power wielded by the demonic entity in this specific confrontation.
* **Consequences of Confrontation:** The violent act initiated by `{{G2177}}` leads to the targets being left **naked** `{{G1131}}` and **wounded** `{{G5135}}`, serving as a stark illustration of the physical danger and humiliation that can result from confronting spiritual powers.
### Summary
In summary, `{{G2177}}` is not merely a word for movement but for violent assault. Though used only once, it provides a powerful image of an overpowering physical attack initiated by a spiritual entity. It defines a moment where the spiritual and physical realms collide, illustrating the aggressive power of an **evil** `{{G4190}}` **spirit** and the severe consequences for those who were overcome [[Acts 19:16]].
TRV