### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **enantíon**, represented by `{{G1726}}`, is an adverb that means **in the presence of** or **before**. It appears only **5 times** in **5 unique verses**, but each instance emphasizes the significance of being in the view of a particular audience, whether divine or human. Its usage highlights actions or states of being that are public, witnessed, and subject to the observation of others.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In scripture, `{{G1726}}` is used to establish the context of important events and character descriptions. For example, Joseph is described as receiving **favour** `{{G5485}}` and **wisdom** `{{G4678}}` **in the sight** of Pharaoh `{{G5328}}`, the king `{{G935}}` of Egypt `{{G125}}` [[Acts 7:10]]. This placement before a powerful ruler was crucial for his appointment as governor `{{G2233}}`. Similarly, Jesus `{{G2424}}` of Nazareth `{{G3480}}` is identified as a prophet `{{G4396}}` who was mighty `{{G1415}}` in deed and word **before** God `{{G2316}}` and all the people `{{G2992}}` [[Luke 24:19]], underscoring the public and divine witness to his power.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the contexts in which one might be "before" another:
* `{{G2992}}` **laós** (a people): This word for **people** often serves as the audience in verses using `{{G1726}}`. It underscores the public nature of an event, such as when Jesus' opponents could not trap him with his words **before** the people [[Luke 20:26]].
* `{{G2316}}` **theós** (a deity, especially... the supreme Divinity): Being **before God** signifies ultimate accountability and witness. Jesus was described as mighty **before God** [[Luke 24:19]], and after a miracle performed **before** a crowd, they **glorified God** [[Mark 2:12]].
* `{{G1392}}` **doxázō** (to render... glorious): This term is often a result of an action done **before** others. When a healed man went forth **before** all the people, they were amazed `{{G1839}}` and **glorified** God for what they had witnessed [[Mark 2:12]].
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of `{{G1726}}` is centered on the concept of witness and presence.
* **Public Testimony:** The word consistently places actions in a public sphere, demonstrating that faith and power are not merely private affairs. The miracle in [[Mark 2:12]] was performed **before** a crowd, leading them to glorify `{{G1392}}` God.
* **Divine and Human Audience:** Scripture uses `{{G1726}}` to show that significant lives are lived in the presence of both God and people. Jesus' work was mighty not just in the eyes of the crowd, but **before God** himself [[Luke 24:19]].
* **Prophetic Submission:** In the prophecy about the Messiah, his submission is described as being like a lamb `{{G286}}` that is dumb **before** its shearer `{{G2751}}` [[Acts 8:32]]. This illustrates a state of being in the presence of another for a sacrificial purpose.
### Summary
In summary, `{{G1726}}` is a specific term that, while used sparingly, is rich in meaning. It consistently frames an action or a person as being **in the presence of** a key observer, whether that is a king [[Acts 7:10]], the general public [[Luke 20:26]], or God himself [[Luke 24:19]]. The word emphasizes that one's character, deeds, and even suffering are witnessed, highlighting the biblical themes of public testimony, accountability, and divine observation.
TRV