a prolonged form of a primary verb, which is only used as an alternate in certain tenses; to lot, i.e. determine (by implication, receive) especially by lot:--his lot be, cast lots, obtain.
### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **lanchánō**, represented by `{{G2975}}`, means to determine or receive something, especially by lot. Its base definition is to lot, i.e. determine (by implication, receive) especially by lot. It appears **4 times** across **4 unique verses**, illustrating a range of meaning from casting literal lots to receiving a divinely appointed portion.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{G2975}}` is used in both literal and figurative ways. It describes the drawing of lots for priestly duty, as when Zacharias's **lot** was to burn incense in the temple [[Luke 1:9]]. It is also used for the soldiers who **cast lots** for the seamless garment of Jesus, an act which fulfilled scripture [[John 19:24]]. The term extends metaphorically to an assigned role, such as Judas having **obtained** his part in the ministry [[Acts 1:17]]. Finally, it signifies the reception of a spiritual gift, as when Simon Peter addresses those who have **obtained** a "like precious faith" [[2 Peter 1:1]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the meaning of receiving by lot or divine appointment:
* `{{G2819}}` **klēros** (heritage, inheritance, lot, part): This word for the lot itself, or the portion received, is directly connected to `{{G2975}}`. It signifies a portion, acquisition, or inheritance, as seen in the "part of this ministry" Judas obtained [[Acts 1:17]] and the lots cast by the soldiers [[John 19:24]].
* `{{G906}}` **bállō** (to throw, cast): This verb describes the physical action of casting lots. In the narrative of the crucifixion, the soldiers decided to **cast** lots for Jesus's vesture [[John 19:24]].
* `{{G1266}}` **diamerízō** (divide, part): This word means to partition something thoroughly. It is used to describe how the soldiers **parted** Jesus's raiment among them before casting lots for his vesture, setting the stage for the action of `{{G2975}}` [[John 19:24]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G2975}}` is significant, highlighting God's sovereignty over both chance and appointment.
* **Divine Appointment:** The term illustrates how God's will can be worked out through seemingly random means, such as the priestly lot falling to Zacharias [[Luke 1:9]]. It also applies to assigned positions, like the ministry Judas had obtained [[Acts 1:17]].
* **Fulfillment of Prophecy:** The soldiers' decision to **cast lots** for Jesus's garment is explicitly noted as a fulfillment of scripture, demonstrating that even the actions of men are used to accomplish a divine purpose [[John 19:24]].
* **Sovereign Grace:** In its most profound use, believers are described as having **obtained** a precious faith through the righteousness of God and Jesus Christ [[2 Peter 1:1]]. This shows that faith is not achieved by human effort but is received as a divinely allotted portion or gift.
### Summary
In summary, `{{G2975}}` **lanchánō** carries a meaning that evolves from the literal casting of lots to the figurative reception of a divine portion. It bridges the gap between chance and divine will, showing how God's purposes are fulfilled whether through a priestly duty [[Luke 1:9]], the actions of soldiers [[John 19:24]], the appointment to a ministry [[Acts 1:17]], or the gift of saving faith to believers [[2 Peter 1:1]].
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