### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **énklēma**, represented by `{{G1462}}`, refers to a formal accusation or an alleged offense. It is derived from the word `{{G1458}}` **enkaléō**, which means to bring a charge against someone. Appearing only **2 times** in **2 unique verses**, its usage is specific to legal and judicial contexts within the book of Acts.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The word `{{G1462}}` is used exclusively in relation to the accusations brought against the Apostle Paul. In the first instance, the Roman commander Claudius Lysias, after rescuing Paul, writes that he found him to be accused of "questions of their law, but to have nothing **laid to his charge** worthy of death or of bonds" [[Acts 23:29]]. Later, when Paul is brought before Festus, the governor explains Roman legal procedure, stating it is not their custom to condemn a man before he can answer for himself concerning the **crime laid against him** [[Acts 25:16]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related Greek words help to clarify the legal context surrounding `{{G1462}}`:
* `{{G1458}}` **enkaléō** (to accuse, call in question, implead, lay to the charge): This is the verb from which `{{G1462}}` is derived, signifying the act of bringing a charge. It is used to describe how Paul was "accused" by the Jews [[Acts 23:28]].
* `{{G2725}}` **katḗgoros** (a complainant at law; specially, Satan:--accuser): This noun refers to the individual making the legal charge. Festus required Paul's "accusers" to be present to state their case [[Acts 25:16]].
* `{{G2213}}` **zḗtēma** (a search (properly concretely), i.e. (in words) a debate:--question): This term is used to describe the substance of the charges against Paul, which were dismissed as mere "questions" about Jewish law rather than a legitimate crime [[Acts 23:29]].
* `{{G3551}}` **nómos** (law): This word is central to the accusations against Paul. The disputes were consistently identified as matters pertaining to Jewish "law" [[Acts 23:29]], not Roman criminal law.
### Theological Significance
The significance of `{{G1462}}` lies primarily in its legal and narrative function within scripture.
* **Legal Distinction:** The word helps distinguish between internal religious disputes and actual criminal offenses. Claudius Lysias explicitly separates the "questions of their law" from a tangible "crime laid to his charge" [[Acts 23:29]].
* **Principle of Justice:** Its use highlights a standard of justice. Festus's statement in [[Acts 25:16]] establishes the right of an accused person to face their accusers and answer the specific `{{G1462}}` against them, a principle that protects Paul within the Roman legal system.
* **Vindication of the Apostle:** In both occurrences, the narrative emphasizes that no valid `{{G1462}}` could be substantiated against Paul. This serves to legally vindicate his actions and, by extension, his apostolic ministry.
### Summary
In summary, `{{G1462}}` is a precise legal term for a formal charge or crime. Although rare, its appearances in the book of Acts are crucial for understanding the legal proceedings against Paul. The word underscores the baselessness of the accusations against him, framing them as religious disagreements rather than legitimate criminal acts, and highlights the legal principles that were part of the narrative of the early church's expansion.
TRV