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ἐνέδρα

enédra

G1747 noun

SILEX Entry

Definition

A place of ambush, a lying in wait (especially for the purpose of seizing or attacking); figuratively, a plot or scheme intended to harm. In most Koine and Hellenistic contexts, refers specifically to a hidden position for a hostile purpose, most often in military or criminal contexts; also can denote the act or instance of ambush itself or a plotted assault.

Semantic Range

ambush, place of ambush, act of lying in wait, an attack sprung from concealment, hostile plot, scheme to harm

Root / Etymology

Derived from the preposition ἐν ('in') and the base ἕδρα ('seat,' 'basis,' or 'place'), thus literally denoting a 'place where one sits in,' i.e., a place of concealment for an ambush. Closely related to ἔνεδρον, the neuter form, with same root.

Historical & Contextual Notes

Attested in classical Greek as well as Hellenistic and Koine periods, ἐνέδρα frequently appears in Greek literature referencing military tactics and criminal activity (e.g., brigandage). In the Septuagint and New Testament, it often describes literal ambushes (e.g., attacks on travelers) or, by extension, schemes of danger. English translations often render it as 'ambush,' 'plot,' or 'lying in wait.' The core sense is not merely waiting, but doing so covertly with hostile or harmful intent. The related noun ἔνεδρον (neuter) is used interchangeably in some sources but may emphasize the trap or snare rather than the act. ἐνέδρα does not generally carry a positive or neutral connotation; the implication of violence, deception, or deadly intent is essential to its meaning. The semantic range in Jewish-Greek literature and in broader Koine parallels closely that of 'ambush' in military or criminal settings.

Original Strong's Gloss (1890)

feminine from ἐν and the base of ἑδραῖος; an ambuscade, i.e. (figuratively) murderous purpose:--lay wait. See also ἔνεδρον.

Root Family

ἐνέδρα (enedra) — ambush, lying in wait, concealed attack, hostile plot

Root ἑδρ- to sit, to place, to lie in wait

Word Forms

1 distinct form

SIDANCE Surface Transliteration Morphology Common SIBI-P1 SIBI-P2 Occurrences
G1747-01 ἐνέδραν enedran N ACC F SG ambush ambush ambush 2

Occurrences in Scripture

2 occurrences

SIDANCE Reference Word Transliteration Morphology Common SIBI-P1 SIBI-P2
G1747-01 Acts 23:16 ἐνέδραν enedran N ACC F SG ambush ambush ambush
G1747-01 Acts 25:3 ἐνέδραν enedran N ACC F SG an ambush ambush an ambush
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