περιέχω (periechō)
periechō
to contain
Quick Reference
- Language
- Koine Greek
- Testament
- New Testament
- Occurrences
- 2 verses
- Root
- —
Word Overview
The verb periechō carries the basic sense of surrounding or encompassing something completely. In the New Testament, it appears only twice, yet its usage reveals a distinct shift from physical enclosure to literary inclusion. Its root combines peri, meaning "around," with echō, meaning "to have" or "hold," creating an image of holding something in on all sides.
In Luke 5:9, the word describes the overwhelming pressure of a great catch of fish that nearly swamped the boats, capturing a literal, physical sense of being surrounded by volume. By contrast, 1 Peter 2:6 uses the term metaphorically to describe how Scripture "contains" or includes the promise of honor for those who believe. Here, it functions as a technical marker indicating that a specific text stands written within the larger collection.
This dual usage highlights how the word bridges concrete experience and abstract reference. While translators often render it simply as "contain," the Greek retains a sense of encompassing force, whether describing water filling a vessel or words filling a scroll. The term underscores the idea that what is held within is fully secured by its boundaries.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
The Greek word periechō paints a vivid picture of being held securely on all sides. In Luke 5:9, it describes the physical weight of fish so abundant they nearly overwhelmed the boats. This image reminds us that God’s blessings can sometimes feel heavy or overwhelming, yet they are contained within His purposeful design. What surrounds us is not meant to crush, but to sustain and fill our lives with provision.
In 1 Peter 2:6, the same word shifts to describe how Scripture contains a specific promise for believers. It suggests that God’s word holds us firmly in its boundaries, securing our hope within a trusted foundation. When life feels uncertain, we can rest in the truth that our faith is not floating freely but is anchored and included in the eternal record of God’s promises.
This dual usage invites us to see both the tangible and spiritual dimensions of God’s care. Whether facing physical challenges or seeking spiritual assurance, we are encompassed by His presence. We do not need to fear being left out; we are held within the fullness of His word and work.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 2 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- laid hold1×
- it is contained1×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- περιέχει1×
- περιέσχεν1×
Key Verses
-
Luke 5:9
For he was amazed, and all who were with him, at the catch of fish which they had caught;
This verse uses the word in a literal sense, describing the physical pressure of the fish catch that amazed the disciples.
-
I Peter 2:6
Because it is contained in Scripture, “Behold, I lay in Zion a chief cornerstone, chosen and precious. He who believes in him will not be disappointed.”
Here the term functions metaphorically to indicate that the promise of the cornerstone is included within the written Scripture.