### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **peiráō**, represented by `{{G3987}}`, means **to test (subjectively), i.e. (reflexively) to attempt**. It appears **3 times** across **3 unique verses** in the Bible. The word is often translated as "assay" or "went about," signifying a deliberate effort or undertaking whose nature is defined by the surrounding context.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In its biblical usage, `{{G3987}}` describes distinct types of attempts. It is used to show Saul's effort to connect with the church in Jerusalem after his conversion, where he **assayed** to join himself to the disciples [[Acts 9:26]]. In contrast, the word also describes a hostile action, as when Paul recounts that the Jews **went about** to kill him in the temple [[Acts 26:21]]. Finally, it appears in Hebrews alongside a related word, `{{G3985}}`, to describe how Christ was **tempted** in all points like us, yet without sin [[Hebrews 4:15]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the context and intention of the attempts described by `{{G3987}}`:
* `{{G3985}}` **peirázō** (to test (objectively), i.e. endeavor, scrutinize, entice, discipline): This very similar term is used with `{{G3987}}` to emphasize the comprehensive nature of the **temptation** Christ faced, showing he was tested in all points [[Hebrews 4:15]].
* `{{G1315}}` **diacheirízomai** (to handle thoroughly, i.e. lay violent hands upon): This word reveals the violent intent behind the attempt in [[Acts 26:21]], where Paul's accusers went about to **kill** him.
* `{{G5399}}` **phobéō** (to frighten, i.e. (passively) to be alarmed): This word provides the reason Saul's attempt to join the disciples was initially unsuccessful; they were all **afraid** of him [[Acts 9:26]].
* `{{G266}}` **hamartía** (a sin (properly abstract)): This term is critical to understanding the outcome of the testing mentioned in [[Hebrews 4:15]], which states Christ was tempted yet without **sin**.
* `{{G769}}` **asthéneia** (feebleness (of mind or body); by implication, malady; morally, frailty): This highlights Christ's connection to humanity, as he can be touched with the feeling of our **infirmities** [[Hebrews 4:15]].
### Theological Significance
The narrative weight of `{{G3987}}` comes from the different motivations behind the "attempt" it describes.
* **Attempted Fellowship:** The word can describe a sincere, though initially rejected, effort to join a community. Saul **assayed** to join the disciples, an attempt born of his genuine conversion [[Acts 9:26]].
* **Hostile Intent:** `{{G3987}}` is also used to frame a malicious plot. In [[Acts 26:21]], it describes the deliberate action of those who had caught `{{G4815}}` Paul and **went about** to kill `{{G1315}}` him.
* **Comprehensive Testing:** Its use in [[Hebrews 4:15]] is theologically significant. Paired with `{{G3985}}`, it shows that Christ was subjected to every kind of testing, linking his experience to human **infirmities** `{{G769}}` while affirming his unique status as being without **sin** `{{G266}}`.
### Summary
In summary, `{{G3987}}` is a specific verb for "to attempt," but its meaning is shaped entirely by the intent of the actor. It can signify a positive move toward community, a violent and deadly conspiracy, or the profound and complete spiritual testing that Christ endured on behalf of humanity. The word demonstrates how a single action—an attempt—can carry vastly different weight depending on its purpose.
TRV