### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **ekdéchomai**, represented by `{{G1551}}`, is derived from ἐκ and δέχομαι and means to accept from a source, which implies to **await**, **expect**, or **wait for**. It appears **8 times** across **8 unique verses** in the Bible. The word conveys a sense of active and patient expectation for a future event or fulfillment.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In its biblical usage, `{{G1551}}` describes various forms of waiting. The impotent folk at the pool of Bethesda were **waiting for** the moving of the water [[John 5:3]]. It is used to illustrate the patience of a **husbandman** who **waiteth** for the precious fruit of the earth [[James 5:7]]. The term also carries a divine weight, as in the days of Noah when the longsuffering of God **waited** while the ark was being prepared [[1 Peter 3:20]]. In Athens, Paul's spirit was stirred while he **waited for** his companions [[Acts 17:16]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help to frame the concept of waiting and expectation:
* `{{G3114}}` **makrothyméō** (to be long-spirited... patient): This verb describes the manner of waiting. A **husbandman** not only waits but also **hath long patience** for the harvest [[James 5:7]].
* `{{G3952}}` **parousía** (coming, presence): This noun often defines the object of the waiting. Believers are called to be patient unto the **coming** of the Lord [[James 5:7]].
* `{{G2190}}` **echthrós** (enemy): This term can define the conditions that will be resolved by the fulfillment of what is expected. Christ is described as **expecting** until His **enemies** are made His footstool [[Hebrews 10:13]].
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of `{{G1551}}` is centered on the faithful anticipation of God's promises.
* **Faithful Expectation:** The word describes the posture of faith. Abraham **looked for** a city with foundations, whose builder and maker is God, demonstrating his trust in a promise yet to be seen [[Hebrews 11:10]].
* **Divine Patience:** It is used to characterize God Himself, who **waited** with longsuffering during the time of Noah, showing His forbearance before executing judgment [[1 Peter 3:20]].
* **Christ's Victorious Wait:** The word is applied to the ascended Christ, who is **expecting** from henceforth until His enemies are defeated, pointing to His assured and final triumph [[Hebrews 10:13]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G1551}}` describes a powerful spiritual posture of active waiting and confident expectation. It is not a passive idleness but a hopeful looking-forward, whether it is a farmer awaiting a harvest, a believer anticipating the Lord's return, or Christ Himself expecting His ultimate victory. The term captures a core element of the life of faith: trusting in a future fulfillment that is divinely promised and certain.
TRV