### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **dēmēgoréō**, represented by `{{G1215}}`, means to address a public assembly or **make an oration**. Derived from a compound meaning "people-gatherer," this specific term highlights the act of formal public speaking. It is an exceedingly rare word in scripture, appearing only **1 time** in **1 unique verse**.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The single biblical use of `{{G1215}}` occurs in the narrative of King Herod. The scene is one of calculated royal display, where on a **set** `{{G5002}}` **day** `{{G2250}}`, **Herod** `{{G2264}}` is **arrayed** `{{G1746}}` in **royal** `{{G937}}` **apparel** `{{G2066}}`. From his **throne** `{{G968}}`, he "made an oration" to the people, demonstrating his earthly power and authority through a formal public address [[Acts 12:21]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words from its context help illustrate the scene of Herod's speech:
* `{{G2264}}` **Hērṓdēs** (Herod): The name for four Jewish kings, this identifies the speaker who is exercising his kingly function [[Acts 12:21]].
* `{{G937}}` **basilikós** (royal): This term describes something belonging to a sovereign. It is used to describe Herod's apparel, emphasizing the regal and official nature of the event [[Acts 12:21]]. The same word is used to describe the "royal law" [[James 2:8]].
* `{{G968}}` **bēma** (throne): This word refers to a rostrum or tribunal, a seat of judgment and authority. While Herod sat on a **bēma** to deliver his oration, this term is also used for the "judgment seat of Christ," establishing a significant theological contrast ([[Acts 12:21]], [[2 Corinthians 5:10]]).
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G1215}}` comes from its unique and pointed context.
* **A Portrait of Worldly Authority:** The word's sole appearance is used to describe the pomp of a human king. The entire scene in [[Acts 12:21]], with its **royal** `{{G937}}` dress and **throne** `{{G968}}`, is a picture of earthly power being publicly asserted.
* **The Temporary Throne:** The **throne** `{{G968}}` from which Herod speaks is a symbol of human judgment. This stands in stark contrast to its use in describing the ultimate tribunal, the "judgment seat of Christ," before which all must appear [[Romans 14:10]].
* **Human Speech vs. Divine Authority:** Herod's act to **make an oration** `{{G1215}}` is an exercise of human rhetoric. This form of communication is set against the backdrop of God's authority, whose power is absolute and does not depend on public display.
### Summary
In summary, `{{G1215}}` is a precise term for a formal public speech. Its single use in scripture is not incidental; it captures a moment of maximum human pomp and earthly authority. This scene, centered on Herod's oration, provides a powerful illustration of the transient nature of worldly power when compared to the eternal authority and judgment of God.
TRV