### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **harpázō**, represented by `{{G726}}`, describes the act **to seize**. It appears 17 times across 13 unique verses in the Bible. Its base definition is to take by force, but its applications range from a hostile snatching to a sudden, divine rescue or transport. The word conveys a sense of speed, force, and irresistibility.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{G726}}` is used in several key contexts. It depicts hostile actions, such as when the **wicked** one **catcheth away** the word of the kingdom from a person's heart [[Matthew 13:19]] or when a wolf **catcheth** and scattereth the sheep [[John 10:12]]. Conversely, it is used to describe a divine or protective seizure. The Spirit of the Lord **caught away** Philip after his encounter with the eunuch [[Acts 8:39]], and believers are promised they will be **caught up** in the clouds to meet the Lord [[1 Thessalonians 4:17]]. The word also denotes a forceful rescue, as when soldiers were commanded to **take** Paul **by force** from a violent crowd [[Acts 23:10]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words expand upon the concepts of force, seizure, and the agents involved:
* `{{G973}}` **biastḗs** (a forcer, i.e. (figuratively) energetic): This word is used in conjunction with `{{G726}}` to describe how the violent **take** the kingdom of heaven **by force** [[Matthew 11:12]].
* `{{G4190}}` **ponērós** (hurtful, i.e. evil): This identifies the agent of hostile snatching. It is the **wicked** one who comes and **catcheth away** the seed sown in the heart [[Matthew 13:19]].
* `{{G4650}}` **skorpízō** (to dissipate): This word describes the result of a hostile seizure. After the wolf **catcheth** the sheep, it **scattereth** them [[John 10:12]].
* `{{G5495}}` **cheír** (the hand (literally or figuratively (power))): This represents the place of security from which one cannot be seized. Jesus promises that no one can **pluck** believers out of his **hand** [[John 10:28]] or his Father's **hand** [[John 10:29]].
* `{{G1288}}` **diaspáō** (to draw apart, i.e. sever or dismember): In a scene of great dissension, the chief captain feared Paul would be **pulled in pieces** and commanded his soldiers to **take** him **by force** for his protection [[Acts 23:10]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G726}}` is significant, defining core doctrines of security and eschatology.
* **Security of the Believer:** The word is used twice to guarantee the eternal security of those in God's care. No one is able to **pluck** them from the hand of the Son [[John 10:28]] or the hand of the Father [[John 10:29]].
* **Divine Intervention:** It describes God’s direct and powerful intervention in the world. The Spirit **caught away** Philip [[Acts 8:39]], and the man child in Revelation was **caught up** unto God and his throne [[Revelation 12:5]].
* **The Rapture:** The word is central to the doctrine of the rapture, where believers who are alive and remain shall be **caught up** to meet the Lord in the air [[1 Thessalonians 4:17]].
* **Spiritual Warfare:** The term highlights the reality of spiritual conflict, where the **wicked** one actively seeks to **catch away** the word of the kingdom from the hearts of hearers [[Matthew 13:19]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G726}}` is more than a simple word for seizing. It is a dynamic term that captures a sudden and forceful action, carrying immense theological importance. It simultaneously illustrates the hostile intent of evil forces and the superior, rescuing power of God. From guaranteeing a believer's security in the Father's hand to describing the ultimate hope of being **caught up** to meet the Lord, **harpázō** is a key to understanding God's sovereign ability to rescue and secure His people.
TRV