### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **dekadýo**, represented by `{{G1177}}`, is a compound word that literally means **twelve**. It is formed from the Greek words for ten and two. According to usage statistics, it appears only **2 times** in **2 unique verses**, making it a term with a very specific and limited application in scripture.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In its biblical usage, `{{G1177}}` serves as a straightforward numerical counter. In one instance, it is used to measure a specific duration of time, with Paul stating that it had been but "**twelve** days" since he had traveled to Jerusalem [[Acts 24:11]]. In another context, it is used to count a specific group of people, where the author notes that "**all** the men were about **twelve**" [[Acts 19:7]]. In both cases, the word functions simply to denote the quantity of twelve.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words found in the immediate context of `{{G1177}}` provide greater detail:
* `{{G2250}}` **hēméra** (day): This word refers to the time space between dawn and dark or a figurative period of time. It is used alongside `{{G1177}}` to specify a period of "**twelve** days" [[Acts 24:11]]. It is also used in contexts of ongoing devotion, such as taking up one's cross **daily** [[Luke 9:23]].
* `{{G435}}` **anḗr** (a man): This term refers to an individual male. It is used to describe the group of about twelve **men** in [[Acts 19:7]]. The word is often used to describe a person of specific character, such as the blessed **man** who endures temptation [[James 1:12]].
* `{{G3956}}` **pâs** (all, any, every, the whole): This word appears with `{{G1177}}` to state that "**all** the men" were about twelve [[Acts 19:7]]. It emphasizes totality and is used in scripture to describe the scope of God's power and promises, such as knowing that **all things** work together for good for those who love God [[Romans 8:28]].
### Theological Significance
While `{{G1177}}` is a simple number, its context points to broader theological themes. The words it quantifies carry significant weight.
* **Counting Time in God's Plan:** The mention of "**twelve** days" connects the number to the concept of `hēméra` `{{G2250}}`. The Bible uses the concept of a **day** to mark significant spiritual events, including the "day of Jesus Christ" [[Philippians 1:6]] and the "**day** of visitation" [[1 Peter 2:12]].
* **Identifying Individuals of Purpose:** The counting of "**twelve** men" links the number to `anḗr` `{{G435}}`. The character of a **man** is a central theme, highlighting those who are "wise" [[Matthew 7:24]] or "a **man** after mine own heart" [[Acts 13:22]].
* **The Scope of God's Work:** The use of `pâs` `{{G3956}}` alongside the group of men in [[Acts 19:7]] points to completeness. This theme of "all" is central to the believer's experience, from being able to do **all things** through Christ [[Philippians 4:13]] to casting **all** your care upon Him [[1 Peter 5:7]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G1177}}` **dekadýo** is a specific numerical term for **twelve**. Though its direct appearances are few and functional, the contexts in which it appears—counting days and men—embed it within a much larger biblical framework. It demonstrates how a simple number can be part of passages that discuss the nature of time, the character of individuals, and the all-encompassing work of God.
TRV