### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek verb ektíthēmi (`{{G1620}}`) is a compound word formed from the preposition ek (`{{G1537}}`), meaning "out of" or "from," and the verb títhēmi (`{{G5087}}`), meaning "to place," "to put," or "to set." This etymological foundation reveals its core semantic range: to "put out" or "set forth."
Literally, ektíthēmi carries the sense of "to expose," often with the implication of abandonment, particularly of infants. This involves placing something outside of a protective or customary environment, thereby making it vulnerable or visible.
Figuratively, the word transitions to mean "to declare," "to explain," or "to expound." In this sense, it refers to the act of setting forth information, arguments, or doctrines clearly and comprehensively, bringing them out into the open for understanding. This involves a deliberate act of revelation or elucidation, making what was potentially obscure or unknown, explicit and accessible.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The verb ektíthēmi appears twice in the New Testament, each instance illustrating one of its primary semantic applications:
1. **Literal Exposure/Abandonment:** In [[Acts 7:21]], during Stephen's speech recounting Israel's history, it is stated concerning Moses: "And when he was exposed, Pharaoh's daughter adopted him and brought him up as her own son." Here, the word describes the physical act of Moses' mother placing him in the Nile, thereby exposing him to the elements and potential harm, in an act of desperate preservation. This highlights the literal meaning of "to put out" or "to expose," carrying the poignant nuance of abandonment or vulnerability.
2. **Figurative Declaration/Expounding:** The second occurrence is in [[Acts 18:26]], describing Apollos's ministry in Ephesus: "He began to speak boldly in the synagogue, but when Priscilla and Aquila heard him, they took him aside and expounded to him the way of God more accurately." In this context, ektíthēmi signifies the act of explaining or clarifying divine truth. Priscilla and Aquila "set forth" or "declared" the Gospel message to Apollos with greater precision, moving him from a partial understanding (knowing only the baptism of John) to a more complete grasp of "the way of God," which encompasses the full revelation of Christ. This usage underscores the intellectual and spiritual act of making known and clarifying doctrine.
These two occurrences demonstrate the distinct yet related facets of ektíthēmi: the physical act of putting something out for exposure, and the intellectual act of putting forth an explanation for understanding.
### Related Words & Concepts
The study of ektíthēmi is enriched by examining its constituent parts and related terms:
* **ek (`{{G1537}}`):** The preposition ek denotes origin, separation, or completion, emphasizing the "outward" movement inherent in ektíthēmi. It signifies a movement "from within to without," whether physically or conceptually.
* **títhēmi (`{{G5087}}`):** The base verb títhēmi is a fundamental term for "to place," "to put," or "to set." Its versatility allows for a wide range of applications, from laying down one's life to establishing laws. When combined with ek, it specifically highlights the act of placing something *outside* or *forth*.
Other words that share conceptual overlap include:
* For "exposure" or "abandonment": rhíptō (`{{G4496}}`, to throw, cast off), though ektíthēmi implies a more deliberate placement rather than a mere discarding.
* For "declaration" or "explanation":
* didáskō (`{{G1321}}`, to teach): Focuses on the act of imparting knowledge.
* diēgéomai (`{{G1334}}`, to narrate, recount): Emphasizes telling a story or detailed account.
* hermēneúō (`{{G2059}}`, to interpret, explain): Specifically refers to making something understandable, often by translating or clarifying.
* anaggéllō (`{{G312}}`, to announce, report, declare): A more general term for making something known.
Ektíthēmi uniquely combines the idea of "setting forth" with the nuance of "bringing out into the open," whether it is a vulnerable life or a complex truth.
### Theological Significance
The dual usage of ektíthēmi carries profound theological significance:
1. **Divine Providence in Vulnerability:** The literal exposure of Moses in [[Acts 7:21]] serves as a powerful testament to God's sovereign providence. What humanly appeared to be an act of abandonment and vulnerability became the very means through which God preserved His chosen leader for the deliverance of Israel. It underscores the biblical theme that even in seemingly desperate or perilous circumstances, God's hand is at work, orchestrating events for His redemptive purposes. This resonates with the broader narrative of God turning human weakness and abandonment into instruments of His divine plan.
2. **The Necessity of Clear Revelation and Teaching:** The figurative usage in [[Acts 18:26]] highlights the critical importance of accurately "expounding" or "declaring" the way of God. The Gospel message, though simple in its core, requires careful articulation and deeper understanding to be fully grasped. Priscilla and Aquila's act of "expounding" to Apollos demonstrates the ongoing need for believers to grow in their understanding of divine truth and to present it with precision and clarity. This speaks to the value of sound doctrine, theological education, and the ministry of teaching within the church, ensuring that the revelation of God in Christ is made fully known and understood by all. It underscores the belief that God desires His truth to be not hidden, but "set forth" for all to comprehend.
### Summary
The Greek verb ektíthēmi (`{{G1620}}`) encapsulates a rich semantic range, moving from the literal act of "exposing" or "putting out" (often with the implication of abandonment) to the figurative act of "declaring" or "expounding" a truth. As seen in [[Acts 7:21]], it describes Moses' exposure as an infant, an act that, despite its vulnerability, was instrumental in God's providential plan. In [[Acts 18:26]], it denotes the crucial act of Priscilla and Aquila "expounding" the way of God more accurately to Apollos, emphasizing the need for clear and precise articulation of divine truth. Both usages underscore foundational theological principles: God's unwavering providence even in the face of human vulnerability, and the imperative for believers to diligently and accurately communicate the revealed truths of God. Thus, ektíthēmi speaks to both the unfolding of divine purpose through human circumstances and the diligent work of making God's truth known.
TRV