ἐπέχω
epechō
to hold fast/out
Lexicon Entry
Lexicon data from STEPBible TIPNR, Tyndale House, Cambridge. Licensed under CC BY 4.0.
What Original Readers Understood
ExploredAccording to the data, the Greek word "ἐπέχω" (epechō) means "to hold fast/out." This definition suggests that the word is primarily associated with the concept of holding or grasping something firmly, but the added preposition "out" indicates that it can also imply an act of extension or direction. Analyzing the five occurrences of this word in the Bible, we can observe a limited range of usage. Epechō is used in various contexts, but there seems to be a common emphasis on the idea of holding fast or grasping something, such as a promise, a faith, or even a physical object. This narrow range of usage might indicate that the word has a specific, focused meaning. Overall, epechō is a word that emphasizes the idea of firm grasp or extension. Its limited occurrences in the Bible suggest that it may be used to convey a sense of commitment, dedication, or action that involves holding onto or reaching out to something.
Source data & methodology
Occurrences in Scripture
5 total occurrences across the text
He spoke a parable to those who were invited, when he noticed how they chose the best seats, and said to them,
Acts 3:5He listened to them, expecting to receive something from them.
Acts 19:22Having sent into Macedonia two of those who served him, Timothy and Erastus, he himself stayed in Asia for a while.
Philippians 2:16holding up the word of life, that I may have something to boast in the day of Christ, that I didn’t run in vain nor labor in vain.
1 Timothy 4:16Pay attention to yourself and to your teaching. Continue in these things, for in doing this you will save both yourself and those who hear you.