### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **dōdekáphylon**, represented by `{{G1429}}`, refers to **the commonwealth of Israel** or the **twelve tribes**. It is formed from δώδεκα and φυλή. It appears **1 times** across **1 unique verses** in the Bible, indicating a highly specific usage.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The sole appearance of `{{G1429}}` is in [[Acts 26:7]], where Paul speaks before king Agrippa `{{G67}}`. Paul describes a divine promise which "our **twelve tribes**, instantly serving God day and night, hope to come." In this passage, the term represents the entirety of the Israelite people as a single, unified body. Their collective identity is shown through their continuous worship and shared expectation of this promise, the very hope for which Paul states he is being accused `{{G1458}}` by the Jews `{{G2453}}`.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words from its single context help clarify its meaning:
* `{{G2257}}` **hēmōn** (of (or from) us:--our): This word directly modifies `{{G1429}}` in the phrase "our twelve tribes," establishing a sense of collective ownership and shared identity [[Acts 26:7]].
* `{{G3000}}` **latreúō** (to minister (to God), i.e. render religious homage): This verb defines the primary activity of the twelve tribes, portraying them as a people dedicated to the constant service and worship of God [[Acts 26:7]].
* `{{G1679}}` **elpízō** (to expect or confide:--hope(-d) (for), trust): This describes the active expectation of the twelve tribes, who collectively hope to attain the promise that is central to their identity [[Acts 26:7]].
* `{{G1680}}` **elpís** (expectation... or confidence:--faith, hope): This noun is used immediately after to refer to the "hope's sake" for which Paul is accused, cementing the promise as the foundation of the conflict [[Acts 26:7]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G1429}}` is concentrated in its single usage.
* **Unified Identity:** The term presents the people of Israel as a single, cohesive unit. Despite historical divisions, they are referred to as the "twelve tribes," functioning with a singular hope and purpose [[Acts 26:7]].
* **Constant Worship:** This collective body is characterized by its unceasing devotion to God. The description of serving `{{G3000}}` "day `{{G2250}}` and `{{G2532}}` night `{{G3571}}`" emphasizes a state of perpetual religious service.
* **Hope-Centered Existence:** The identity of the twelve tribes is inextricably linked to a divine promise. Their entire spiritual posture is one of hoping `{{G1679}}` to come `{{G2658}}` unto this fulfillment.
### Summary
In summary, **dōdekáphylon** `{{G1429}}` is a term that, while rare, carries significant meaning in its biblical context. It portrays the commonwealth of Israel as a unified entity defined by two principles: relentless, round-the-clock service to God and a shared, foundational hope in a divine promise. It powerfully encapsulates a collective spiritual identity within the narrative of Acts.
TRV