λαγχάνω (lagchanō)
lagchanō
to choose by lot
Quick Reference
- Language
- Koine Greek
- Testament
- New Testament
- Occurrences
- 4 verses
- Root
- —
Word Overview
The verb lagchanō describes obtaining something by casting lots, a method used in the ancient world to seek divine guidance rather than relying on chance. In Scripture, it carries the sense of receiving an allotment or portion assigned by God. This meaning appears when the apostles refer to Judas’s role as one determined by lot (Acts 1:17), and in Peter’s letter regarding the ministry entrusted to him (2 Peter 1:1).
It also refers to the physical act of drawing lots, such as when soldiers cast lots for Jesus’ garments at the crucifixion (John 19:24). The word emphasizes that the outcome is not random but is understood as a divine decision. By using this term, the biblical writers highlight God’s sovereignty in assigning roles and responsibilities among His people.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
When we face decisions that feel beyond our control, it is easy to worry about whether we are on the right path. The ancient practice of casting lots was not about gambling with fate, but about seeking God’s direction in a world where human understanding is limited. This word reminds us that even when circumstances seem random, God remains sovereign and attentive to His people.
In the New Testament, this concept shifts from physical lots to spiritual inheritance. Peter writes that believers have obtained a faith as precious as his own, granted through the righteousness of Jesus Christ. This means our standing before God is not an accident or a result of chance. It is a gift assigned by Him, secure and purposeful.
Whether you are waiting for guidance in a difficult choice or resting in the assurance of your salvation, this truth offers comfort. You are not left to navigate life without direction. The same God who oversees the smallest details of history cares deeply about your portion in His kingdom.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 4 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- was allotted1×
- the lot picked [him as]1×
- let us cast lots1×
- having obtained1×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- ἔλαχεν2×
- λάχωμεν1×
- λαχοῦσιν1×
Key Verses
-
Luke 1:9
according to the custom of the priest’s office, his lot was to enter into the temple of the Lord and burn incense.
This verse shows the word used in a priestly context where specific duties were assigned by lot, highlighting how God directed religious service through this method.
-
John 19:24
Then they said to one another, “Let’s not tear it, but cast lots for it to decide whose it will be,” that the Scripture might be fulfilled, which says, “They parted my garments among them. They cast lots for my clothing.” Therefore the soldiers did these things.
Here the action fulfills prophecy, demonstrating that even the soldiers' casual casting of lots was part of God's sovereign plan to reveal Scripture.
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II Peter 1:1
Simon Peter, a servant and apostle of Jesus Christ, to those who have obtained a like precious faith with us in the righteousness of our God and Savior, Jesus Christ:
Peter uses the related noun form to describe believers obtaining a faith equal to his own, emphasizing that our spiritual inheritance is a divine gift rather than a random occurrence.