### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **diaporéō**, represented by `{{G1280}}`, describes a state of profound confusion, defined as being **thoroughly nonplussed**, in **doubt**, or **much perplexed**. It appears **5 times** in **5 unique verses**, highlighting specific moments of bewilderment in the face of the inexplicable.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{G1280}}` consistently marks a reaction to divine or miraculous events. When the high priest and temple captain heard of the apostles' deeds, they **doubted** what the outcome would be [[Acts 5:24]]. Herod the tetrarch was **perplexed** by reports of Jesus's power, wondering if John had been raised from the dead [[Luke 9:7]]. Similarly, the women at the empty tomb were **much perplexed** just before two men in shining garments appeared to them [[Luke 24:4]]. The word also captures the internal struggle of key figures, such as when Peter **doubted** the meaning of his supernatural vision [[Acts 10:17]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words provide context for the state of being perplexed:
* `{{G1839}}` **exístēmi** (to be amazed, astonished): This word is used alongside `{{G1280}}` to describe the crowd's reaction at Pentecost, showing that their doubt was coupled with astonishment ("they were all **amazed**, and were in **doubt**") [[Acts 2:12]].
* `{{G3705}}` **hórama** (sight, vision): This term is the direct cause of Peter's perplexity. He "doubted in himself what this **vision** which he had seen should mean," linking the internal state of doubt to a supernatural spectacle [[Acts 10:17]].
* `{{G1331}}` **dierōtáō** (to make enquiry for): This word describes the action taken while Peter was perplexed. As he **doubted** the vision, the men sent from Cornelius "had **made enquiry** for Simon's house," demonstrating how divine purpose moves forward even amidst human confusion [[Acts 10:17]].
### Theological Significance
The use of `{{G1280}}` illustrates a recurring theme of human limitation in the face of divine action.
* **A Precursor to Revelation:** Perplexity is often the state just before greater understanding is given. The women's confusion at the tomb immediately precedes the angelic message of the resurrection [[Luke 24:4]], and Peter's doubt gives way to the revelation of the gospel for the Gentiles [[Acts 10:17]].
* **Response to Divine Power:** The term captures the reaction of both authorities and followers when confronted with God's power. It is used for Herod's confusion over Jesus's works [[Luke 9:7]] and for the crowd's bewilderment at the work of the Holy Spirit [[Acts 2:12]].
* **Conflict with Human Systems:** The doubt of the temple captain and chief priests reveals their inability to comprehend or control God's plan, highlighting the tension between human institutions and divine intervention [[Acts 5:24]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G1280}}` is not simply a word for confusion but a specific term for the profound doubt that arises when humans encounter the divine. It marks pivotal moments where human understanding fails, creating a space for divine revelation. From the perplexity of a king like Herod to the doubt of an apostle like Peter, **diaporéō** captures the universal human response to the mighty and inexplicable works of God.
TRV