☀️
← Back to Lexicon
G5177 · Greek · New Testament
τυγχάνω
Tynchanō
Verb
Happen, Obtain, Meet, Perhaps

Definition

The Greek verb tynchanō (τυγχάνω) has two main senses: (1) to obtain, reach, or attain something (used with a genitive object), and (2) to happen, chance, or occur (often in the phrase 'ei tychoi' — 'perhaps' or 'whatever might happen'). It appears about 12 times in the New Testament and implies both the contingency of events and the act of obtaining something through seeking or providential circumstance.

Usage & Theological Significance

The theological interest of tynchanō lies in its use for attaining divine gifts and eschatological realities. In Luke 20:35, Jesus describes those 'who are considered worthy of taking part in the age to come and in the resurrection from the dead' — the verb for 'take part' is tychein. Hebrews 8:6 says Jesus 'has obtained (tetychenken) a ministry superior to theirs.' The word acknowledges both divine sovereignty and human reception — salvation is not earned but obtained by grace through faith. Acts 26:22 has Paul saying 'I have had God's help (epikourias tychōn) to this very day' — even the ability to persevere in ministry is a divine gift obtained from God.

Key Bible Verses

Luke 20:35 But those who are considered worthy of taking part in the age to come and in the resurrection from the dead will neither marry nor be given in marriage.
Acts 26:22 But God has helped me to this very day; so I stand here and testify to small and great alike.
Hebrews 8:6 But in fact the ministry Jesus has received is as superior to theirs as the covenant of which he is mediator is superior to the old one.
2 Timothy 2:10 Therefore I endure everything for the sake of the elect, that they too may obtain the salvation that is in Christ Jesus, with eternal glory.
Hebrews 11:35 Women received back their dead, raised to life again. There were others who were tortured, refusing to be released so that they might gain an even better resurrection.

Related Words

External Resources

🌙
☀️