### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek term αἰτίαμα (G157, aitíama) is a noun derived from αἰτία (G156, aitía), which signifies "cause," "reason," "charge," or "accusation." While αἰτία can refer to the accusation itself or its underlying cause, αἰτίαμα specifically denotes *that which is charged* or *the substance of a complaint*. It points to the concrete object or content of an accusation, rather than the act of accusing. Its core meaning is "a thing charged" or "a complaint," emphasizing the specific ground upon which a grievance or indictment is based. This precision indicates a formal or legal context where a distinct charge is articulated.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The term αἰτίαμα (G157) appears only once in the New Testament, found in the book of Acts:
* **[[Acts 25:16]]**: "To whom I answered, that it is not the custom of the Romans to deliver any man to destruction, before that he who is accused has the accusers face to face, and has opportunity to answer for himself concerning the αἰτίαμα (complaint/charge) against him."
In this passage, Festus, the Roman governor, is explaining to King Agrippa the legal custom of the Romans regarding accused persons. He states that it is not Roman practice to condemn someone without allowing them to confront their accusers and to defend themselves against the specific αἰτίαμα brought against them. Here, αἰτίαμα clearly refers to the particular accusation or charge leveled against Paul by the Jews. It is not a vague grievance but a definite, articulable point of contention that requires a defense. This sole occurrence firmly places the word within a legal and judicial framework, highlighting the importance of due process and the right of the accused to respond to specific allegations.
### Related Words & Concepts
Understanding αἰτίαμα (G157) is enhanced by examining its relationship to other Greek terms:
* **αἰτία (G156, aitía):** As its direct root, αἰτία carries the broader meaning of "cause," "reason," or "accusation." αἰτίαμα is the specific *result* or *object* of an αἰτία that is brought forth as a charge.
* **κατηγορέω (G2723, katēgoreō):** This verb means "to accuse" or "to bring a charge against." While κατηγορέω describes the *action* of accusing, αἰτίαμα is the *thing* that is accused.
* **ἔγκλημα (G1458, enklēma):** Similar to αἰτίαμα, this noun also means "accusation" or "charge," often in a formal or legal sense. Both words denote the content of an indictment.
* **ἀπολογία (G627, apologia):** Meaning "defense" or "apology," this term represents the counter-response to an αἰτίαμα. One offers an apologia to refute an αἰτίαμα.
* **Justice and Due Process:** The very existence of αἰτίαμα underscores the concepts of legal proceedings, the articulation of charges, and the right to a fair hearing, all foundational to justice.
### Theological Significance
Though αἰτίαμα (G157) appears only once, its singular use in [[Acts 25:16]] carries significant theological weight, particularly in the context of early Christian persecution and the nature of truth. The word highlights the concrete, specific nature of the accusations leveled against believers, rather than vague slanders. This precision underscores the importance of addressing specific falsehoods with truth, reflecting the commitment of the apostles to defend the Gospel against defined charges.
The Roman legal principle, articulated by Festus, that an accused person must face their accusers and answer for the αἰτίαμα against them, provides a crucial framework for understanding the divine expectation of justice. Even in human courts, there is an inherent demand for clarity in accusation and opportunity for defense. Theologically, this resonates with the character of God, who is righteous in His judgments and provides avenues for reconciliation and truth.
Furthermore, the experience of Paul, who faced numerous αἰτίαι and αἰτίαματα from those who opposed the Gospel, serves as a powerful reminder of the unjust accusations that Christ Himself endured. Jesus faced specific charges, ultimately leading to His crucifixion, despite being innocent of any αἰτίαμα that could warrant such a sentence. Thus, αἰτίαμα implicitly connects the suffering of the early church with the pattern of Christ's own trials, emphasizing the need for integrity and truth in the face of false or malicious complaints.
### Summary
αἰτίαμα (G157) is a precise Greek term meaning "a thing charged" or "complaint," derived from αἰτία (G156). It denotes the specific, concrete substance of an accusation, particularly within a legal or judicial context. Its sole New Testament occurrence in [[Acts 25:16]] vividly illustrates its usage in describing the formal charges brought against Paul, emphasizing the Roman legal principle of confronting accusers and responding to specific allegations. Theologically, αἰτίαμα underscores the reality of specific, often unjust, accusations faced by early Christians, drawing parallels to the trials of Christ. It highlights the divine expectation of truth and justice in all judgments, and the importance of a clear defense against defined complaints.
TRV