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παγιδεύω

pagideúō

G3802 verb

SILEX Entry

Definition

To catch or entrap using a snare or trap, most often used figuratively in Koine Greek to indicate catching someone in a scheme, trick, or deception. The core meaning is to set a snare and catch something or someone, with metaphorical extension to entangling people in difficult situations or entrapment through cunning plans.

Semantic Range

to catch in a trap, to ensnare literally, to entrap or ensnare figuratively by scheme or deceit, to entangle rhetorically or socially

Root / Etymology

Derived from παγίς (pagís, 'snare, trap'), itself from the root παγ- (to fasten, fix). The verb form signifies the action of using or setting a trap.

Historical & Contextual Notes

In classical Greek, the verb is rarely attested; the main noun form παγίς is more common for 'trap' or 'snare.' In Hellenistic and Koine literature—including the Greek translation of the Hebrew Bible (Septuagint) and the New Testament—παγιδεύω is employed almost exclusively in a figurative sense. In the New Testament (e.g., Matthew 22:15), it refers to laying verbal or rhetorical traps to catch someone in their words. The Septuagint occasionally uses it for enemies setting snares for the righteous (see Psalms/LXX Psalm 140:6). Standard English translations as 'entangle' or 'ensnare' capture the metaphor but may not reflect the underlying imagery of ancient hunting or trapping practices. The term has strong connotations of deliberate, often malicious intent; it is distinct from broader terms like ἐνέδρα (ambush) or ἀλιεύω (to fish/catch).

Original Strong's Gloss (1890)

from παγίς; to ensnare (figuratively):--entangle.

Root Family

παγιδεύω (pagideuō) — to fasten, to set a snare, to catch, to entrap

Root παγ- to fasten, to set a snare, to catch

Word Forms

1 distinct form

SIDANCE Surface Transliteration Morphology Common SIBI-P1 SIBI-P2 Occurrences
G3802-01 παγιδεύσωσιν pagideusosin V AOR ACT SUBJ 3P PL they might entangle they might ensnare they might ensnare 1

Occurrences in Scripture

1 occurrence

SIDANCE Reference Word Transliteration Morphology Common SIBI-P1 SIBI-P2
G3802-01 Matthew 22:15 παγιδεύσωσιν pagideusosin V AOR ACT SUBJ 3P PL they might entangle they might ensnare they might ensnare
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