ἅπτομαι
háptomai
G680
SILEX Entry
Definition
To touch, lay hold of, or come into contact with (something or someone), often with intentionality or purpose; in some contexts, to physically grasp, handle, or make contact, and occasionally to affect, influence, or involve oneself with. The primary sense is physical touching, but can extend metaphorically to forms of involvement or contact.
Semantic Range
to touch, to lay hold of, to cling to, to engage with, to handle, to affect (metaphorically), to approach physically
Root / Etymology
Middle/passive voice of ἅπτω ('to fasten, to light (a fire), to kindle'), with the middle voice commonly reflecting a reflexive or personal action ('attach oneself to, touch'). Derived from the root ἁπτ-, relating to fastening or contact.
Historical & Contextual Notes
In classical Greek, ἅπτομαι was commonly used for physically touching or grasping, sometimes with emphasis on personal involvement or initiative (as distinct from accidental contact). In the Septuagint, it can denote ritual or cultic touching, often with implications for ritual purity (e.g., Leviticus regulations), or the transfer of blessing/power. In the New Testament, it denotes literal touching (as in Jesus touching individuals), but also may convey compassionate or purposeful action. Occasionally, it is used in metaphorical or extended senses such as engaging with or being affected by someone. English translations often render it simply as 'touch,' which may understate senses of intentionality, personal involvement, or even ritual significance. The term stands in contrast to related verbs like προσψαύω (to touch lightly) or ἐπιλαμβάνομαι (to take hold of, seize), which have different nuances regarding force and purpose of contact.
Original Strong's Gloss (1890)
reflexive of ἅπτω; properly, to attach oneself to, i.e. to touch (in many implied relations):--touch.
Word Forms
0 distinct forms
No word forms found for this Strong's number.
Occurrences in Scripture
0 occurrences
No occurrences found.