ἐπιτυγχάνω (epitugchanō)
epitugchanō
to obtain
Quick Reference
- Language
- Koine Greek
- Testament
- New Testament
- Occurrences
- 4 verses
- Root
- —
Word Overview
The verb epitugchanō describes the act of obtaining or attaining something, often with a sense of finally reaching a desired goal. In the New Testament, it appears only four times, primarily in Romans, Hebrews, and James. The word carries a weight of successful pursuit, suggesting that the object sought was not easily acquired but required effort or divine favor to secure.
Its structure combines a prefix meaning "upon" with a root related to hitting or striking, implying a direct and effective engagement with the target. This imagery is evident in how Hebrews uses it to describe the patriarchs obtaining promises (Hebrews 11:33) and James contrasts those who fail to obtain anything because they do not ask (James 4:2). The term emphasizes the result of the action—the successful acquisition—rather than the process itself.
Translators typically render this word as "obtain" or "attain," capturing its decisive nature. Unlike general terms for receiving, epitugchanō suggests a specific achievement, often linked to spiritual blessings or promises. Its limited usage in Scripture highlights moments where God’s provision meets human seeking, marking significant intersections of faith and fulfillment.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
The word epitugchanō carries a sense of finality and success. It is not just about hoping for something, but actually reaching the goal. In the New Testament, this term appears only four times, marking moments where seeking meets divine provision. It reminds us that our spiritual pursuits are not in vain when aligned with God’s will.
Consider how Hebrews describes the patriarchs who, through patient endurance, obtained the promises given to them. This suggests that faith is active and persistent. Similarly, James warns that without asking, we cannot obtain what we need. The contrast is clear: seeking with humility opens the door to God’s gifts.
For your daily walk, this word offers encouragement. When you feel stuck or unsure if your prayers are heard, remember that God honors sincere seeking. It is not about perfect effort, but about turning to Him in faith. His promises are sure, and He gives what is good to those who ask in trust.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 4 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- to obtain;1×
- obtained [it];1×
- obtained1×
- it has obtained,1×
- he obtained1×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- ἐπέτυχον1×
- ἐπέτυχεν·1×
- ἐπέτυχεν,1×
- ἐπέτυχεν1×
- ἐπιτυχεῖν·1×
Key Verses
-
Hebrews 6:15
Thus, having patiently endured, he obtained the promise.
This verse highlights that patient endurance is the pathway through which Abraham obtained the promise, linking perseverance directly to divine fulfillment.
-
James 4:2
You lust, and don’t have. You murder and covet, and can’t obtain. You fight and make war. You don’t have, because you don’t ask.
Here the word explains the cause of spiritual lack: failure to ask prevents obtaining, showing that prayer is the essential means of access to God's gifts.
-
Hebrews 11:33
who through faith subdued kingdoms, worked out righteousness, obtained promises, stopped the mouths of lions,
In the faith chapter, this term describes how heroes of old secured promises through faith, emphasizing that belief leads to tangible spiritual victories.