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G1793 · Greek · New Testament
ἐντυγχάνω
entygchano
Verb
to intercede, plead for, meet with

Definition

Entygchano (ἐντυγχάνω) means to meet with, approach, or petition on behalf of another — to intercede. It is the verb used for both the Spirit's intercession for believers (Romans 8:26-27) and Jesus Christ's ongoing heavenly intercession at the right hand of the Father (Romans 8:34; Hebrews 7:25). The word can also mean to make petition against someone (Romans 11:2; Acts 25:24), but its primary New Testament use is the positive one: intercession.

Usage & Theological Significance

The twin appearances of entygchano in Romans 8:26-34 create one of the most profound theological statements about prayer in all of Scripture. The Spirit intercedes for us with groans too deep for words (entygchano); Christ at God's right hand intercedes for us (entygchano). This means the believer's prayer is bracketed by divine intercession — below, the Spirit; above, the Son. The Christian never prays alone. The priesthood of Christ (Hebrews 7:25) is defined precisely by this permanent, life-giving intercession: 'he always lives to entygchano for them.'

Key Bible Verses

Romans 8:26 The Spirit himself intercedes [entygchano] for us through wordless groans.
Romans 8:34 Christ Jesus who died — more than that, who was raised to life — is at the right hand of God and is also interceding [entygchano] for us.
Hebrews 7:25 He is able to save completely those who come to God through him, because he always lives to intercede [entygchano] for them.
Romans 11:2 Don't you know what Scripture says in the passage about Elijah — how he appealed to God against Israel?
1 John 2:1 We have an advocate with the Father — Jesus Christ, the Righteous One.

Related Words

External Resources

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