### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word αὐτόχειρ (autócheir, `{{G849}}`) is a compound adjective formed from αὐτός (autos, `{{G846}}`), meaning "self" or "same," and χείρ (cheir, `{{G5495}}`), meaning "hand." Literally, it signifies "self-handed" or "with one's own hands." Its core meaning therefore denotes an action performed personally, directly, and without the aid or intervention of another. The semantic range emphasizes direct agency, personal involvement, and the physical exertion of an individual in carrying out a task. It highlights the absence of delegation or reliance on intermediaries, underscoring that the action was accomplished by the person themselves.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The term αὐτόχειρ appears only once in the New Testament, specifically in the book of Acts:
* **Acts 27:19**: "And the third day we cast out with our own hands the tackling of the ship."
In this sole occurrence, the context is the perilous sea voyage of Paul and his companions towards Rome, caught in a violent storm. The phrase "with our own hands" (τῇ ἰδίᾳ χειρὶ αὐτόχειρ) emphatically conveys the desperate and direct involvement of the crew and passengers, including Paul, in jettisoning the ship's equipment. This was not an act delegated to a few sailors, but a collective and personal effort to lighten the vessel and increase their chances of survival. The use of αὐτόχειρ here underscores the severity of their plight and the personal, physical labor they undertook in the face of imminent danger. It highlights their active participation in the struggle, rather than passive endurance.
### Related Words & Concepts
The meaning of αὐτόχειρ is intrinsically linked to its constituent parts:
* **αὐτός (autos, `{{G846}}`):** This pronoun is foundational to the concept of self-agency and personal identity. Its presence in αὐτόχειρ reinforces the idea that the action originates from and is executed by the individual themselves.
* **χείρ (cheir, `{{G5495}}`):** The "hand" is a ubiquitous symbol and instrument of action, power, and authority throughout Scripture. In the context of αὐτόχειρ, it signifies the physical means by which the personal action is carried out.
Related concepts include:
* **Personal Agency:** The capacity of an individual to act independently and make their own free choices.
* **Direct Action:** Performing a task without intermediaries or delegation.
* **Physical Labor/Exertion:** The commitment of one's body and strength to a task.
* **Self-Reliance:** Though not in a prideful sense, the necessity of personal effort in challenging circumstances.
* **Responsibility:** The accountability that comes with personal involvement in an action.
### Theological Significance
While αὐτόχειρ itself describes a practical, physical act, its underlying concept of direct, personal involvement carries theological resonance. In Acts 27:19, the human agents are depicted as actively participating in their own rescue, even as they are under divine providence. This illustrates a biblical principle where human effort and responsibility are not negated by God's sovereignty but are often the very means through which His purposes are realized. The disciples are not passive recipients of salvation but are called to labor, even in the most dire circumstances.
The concept of "doing with one's own hands" can also subtly reflect the biblical emphasis on diligence and active stewardship. Believers are called to be active participants in God's kingdom, using their gifts and energies directly in service, rather than remaining idle or delegating all responsibility. Though not explicitly theological in its singular usage, the word serves as a vivid descriptor of human engagement and the personal cost of survival or service, echoing the broader theme of active faith.
### Summary
Αὐτόχειρ (autócheir, `{{G849}}`) precisely means "with one's own hands," signifying an action performed personally, directly, and without external assistance. Its sole New Testament occurrence in [[Acts 27:19]] powerfully illustrates the desperate and direct physical labor undertaken by Paul and his companions to lighten their ship during a violent storm. This word highlights personal agency, direct involvement, and physical exertion in the face of crisis. While not a word with extensive theological exposition, it underscores the biblical value of active human participation and responsibility, even within the framework of divine providence, demonstrating the tangible effort required in challenging circumstances.
TRV