ἐπέχω (epechō)
epechō
to hold fast/out
Quick Reference
- Language
- Koine Greek
- Testament
- New Testament
- Occurrences
- 5 verses
- Root
- —
Word Overview
The verb epechō literally means to hold fast or keep one’s attention fixed on something. In the New Testament it often describes a posture of careful observation or sustained focus. For instance, in Acts 3:5 a beggar looks intently at Peter and John, expecting alms, while in Luke 14:7 Jesus observes how guests choose places of honor. The word implies an active engagement of the mind or eyes, rather than passive noticing.
It also carries the sense of holding forth or presenting something to another. Paul uses this meaning in Philippians 2:16, speaking of holding out the word of life as a testimony to others. Additionally, epechō can mean to delay or wait, particularly in legal contexts where one holds off an action until a later time, as seen in Acts 19:22.
Its root combines ep- (upon) and echō (to have or hold), suggesting the idea of maintaining a grip on attention or circumstance. This word captures both the mental act of paying heed and the physical act of presenting or waiting, showing how focused attention shapes Christian witness and conduct.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
When we read about holding fast or paying close attention in Scripture, it invites us to consider where our focus lies. In Acts 3:5, a beggar looks intently at Peter and John, expecting something tangible. This image reminds us that faith often involves a steady gaze toward God’s promises, trusting that He provides what we truly need.
Paul encourages believers in Philippians 2:16 to hold out the word of life. This suggests an active presentation of truth, not just private belief. By keeping our attention fixed on Christ and sharing His message, we participate in a witness that endures beyond our daily struggles.
I Timothy 4:16 urges us to pay attention to ourselves and our teaching. This care for spiritual health protects both the giver and the listener. As you navigate your own journey, may you find peace in focusing on what is eternal, knowing that God honors those who remain steadfast in truth.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 5 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- remarking1×
- remained1×
- holding forth,1×
- he was giving heed1×
- do give heed1×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- ἔπεχε1×
- ἐπέχων1×
- ἐπέχοντες,1×
- ἐπέσχεν1×
- ἐπεῖχεν1×
Key Verses
-
Acts 3:5
He listened to them, expecting to receive something from them.
This verse illustrates the word's sense of fixed expectation, where the beggar’s gaze reflects a hopeful reliance on divine provision.
-
Philippians 2:16
holding 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.
Here the meaning shifts to actively presenting or holding forth the message of life as a public testimony of faith.
-
I Timothy 4:16
Pay 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.
Paul uses this term to urge sustained attention to personal conduct and doctrine, emphasizing spiritual vigilance.