ἐπιτίθημι (epitithēmi)
epitithēmi
to put/lay on
Quick Reference
- Language
- Koine Greek
- Testament
- New Testament
- Occurrences
- 38 verses
- Root
- —
Word Overview
The Greek verb epitithēmi describes the physical act of placing or laying something upon another object or person. Its meaning is grounded in this tangible contact, appearing whenever Jesus lays hands on the sick to heal them (Mark 5:23) or when soldiers place a crown of thorns on his head (John 19:2). It also covers practical actions, such as Simon Peter being surnamed Cephas by Jesus (Mark 3:16) or Paul’s companions providing provisions for him in Rome (Acts 28:10).
While the core sense is physical placement, the word carries a distinct range of nuance depending on context. In Acts 15:10 and 15:28, it describes the heavy burden of the Mosaic law placed upon believers, shifting from simple contact to the idea of imposing a requirement. The middle voice adds further variety, allowing for meanings like attacking or throwing oneself against someone, as seen in Acts 18:10, or even adding to something, as in Revelation 22:18.
A notable feature of this word is its grammatical flexibility, which allows it to express different relationships between the object and the recipient. It can take a direct object with a preposition, or simply use the dative case to indicate who receives the action. This structural adaptability lets the text convey everything from gentle healing touches to the severe imposition of burdens, making it a versatile term for describing how authority, care, or weight is transferred through physical means.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
The word epitithēmi describes the simple, tangible act of placing something upon a person or object. In the Gospels, we see this most often in Jesus’ healing ministry. He does not speak from a distance; He comes close. When He lays His hands on the sick, it is a physical sign that God’s power is entering their brokenness. This touch bridges the gap between heaven and earth, showing us that our Creator cares about our bodies as well as our souls.
Yet this word also carries weight in other ways. In Acts, the apostles lay hands on believers to commission them for service, marking a transfer of authority and blessing. Conversely, it describes the heavy burdens placed on people by religious leaders or the cross laid on Simon of Cyrene. These contrasts remind us that while some actions bring life and freedom, others impose strain. We are invited to look at how we place our hands on others—whether with healing care or demanding pressure—and choose the path that reflects Christ’s love.
For your own faith, this word offers comfort. You are not too far for God to reach. He is near enough to touch. Whether you are facing illness, seeking direction, or carrying a heavy load, remember that Jesus’ hands are gentle and His purpose is restoration. May you feel the peace of being known and held by Him.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 38 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- having laid8×
- do lay2×
- He may lay2×
- He added2×
- will lay a hand on1×
- will add1×
- when was laying1×
- to put1×
- to lay1×
- they will lay1×
- they were laying1×
- they put upon1×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- ἐπέθηκαν6×
- ἐπιθεὶς5×
- ἐπέθηκεν4×
- ἐπιθῇ3×
- ἐπιθέντες3×
- ἐπιθέντος2×
- ἐπίθες1×
- ἐπέθηκέν1×
- ἐπέθεντο1×
- ἐπιτίθησιν1×
- ἐπιτίθεσθαι1×
- ἐπιτίθει1×
Key Verses
-
Mark 5:23
and begged him much, saying, “My little daughter is at the point of death. Please come and lay your hands on her, that she may be made healthy, and live.”
This verse highlights the personal plea for healing, where the father asks Jesus to lay hands on his dying daughter, showing faith in physical contact as a channel of divine power.
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Acts 8:17
Then they laid their hands on them, and they received the Holy Spirit.
Here the laying on of hands is linked directly to the reception of the Holy Spirit, marking a significant moment of spiritual empowerment for new believers.
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Matthew 23:4
For they bind heavy burdens that are grievous to be borne, and lay them on men’s shoulders; but they themselves will not lift a finger to help them.
Jesus uses this word critically to describe how religious leaders impose heavy, unhelpful burdens on people, contrasting their actions with His own gentle care.
-
Luke 13:13
He laid his hands on her, and immediately she stood up straight and glorified God.
After Jesus lays hands on the woman bent double, she immediately stands straight and glorifies God, demonstrating the immediate and transformative nature of His touch.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does epitithēmi mean in the Bible?
Why did Jesus lay hands on people?
Is laying on hands still practiced today?
Every Occurrence (38 verses across 7 books)
Matthew 7 verses
While he told these things to them, behold, a ruler came and worshiped him, saying, “My daughter has just died, but…
Matthew 19:13Then little children were brought to him that he should lay his hands on them and pray; and the disciples rebuked them.
Matthew 19:15He laid his hands on them, and departed from there.
Matthew 21:7and brought the donkey and the colt and laid their clothes on them; and he sat on them.
Matthew 23:4For they bind heavy burdens that are grievous to be borne, and lay them on men’s shoulders; but they themselves will…
Matthew 27:29They braided a crown of thorns and put it on his head, and a reed in his right hand; and they kneeled down before him…
Matthew 27:37They set up over his head the accusation against him written, “THIS IS JESUS, THE KING OF THE JEWS.”