### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **akatákritos**, represented by `{{G178}}`, means **uncondemned**. It is formed from a negative particle and a derivative of a word meaning to pass a legal sentence, thus signifying a state of being without a legal trial. This specific term appears **2 times** across **2 unique verses** in the Bible.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{G178}}` is used exclusively by the Apostle Paul to assert his legal rights as a Roman citizen. In one instance, after being beaten and imprisoned, Paul declares that he and his companions, who are Romans, were punished while **uncondemned** [[Acts 16:37]]. Later, as he is about to be scourged, he questions a centurion whether it is lawful to scourge a Roman who is **uncondemned** [[Acts 22:25]]. In both cases, the word highlights an injustice and a violation of Roman law.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words provide context for the situations where `{{G178}}` is used:
* `{{G1194}}` **dérō**: This verb means to **beat** or **smite**. It describes the physical punishment Paul endured despite being uncondemned [[Acts 16:37]].
* `{{G3147}}` **mastízō**: Meaning to **scourge**, this term refers to the specific form of whipping Paul was about to receive before he invoked his rights as an uncondemned Roman [[Acts 22:25]].
* `{{G4385}}` **proteínō**: This word means to **bind** for the purpose of scourging. It describes the physical preparation for punishment that was halted by Paul's declaration [[Acts 22:25]].
* `{{G5438}}` **phylakḗ**: This word for **prison** or **imprisonment** describes the consequence of the unjust punishment inflicted upon Paul and his companions when they were cast into prison without a trial [[Acts 16:37]].
### Theological Significance
The significance of `{{G178}}` lies in its legal and ethical implications within the narrative of Acts.
* **Principle of Due Process:** The word is central to Paul's claim to the rights of a Roman citizen, which included the right to a formal trial before condemnation and punishment. His protest was against the violation of this legal standard.
* **Confronting Injustice:** By declaring he was **uncondemned**, Paul did not simply seek to avoid pain but confronted the authorities who had acted unlawfully. He challenged their actions of beating him **openly** `{{G1219}}` and then attempting to release him **privily** `{{G2977}}`, demanding they publicly acknowledge their error [[Acts 16:37]].
* **Protection for the Mission:** Paul's assertion of his legal status protected him from summary punishment, allowing him to continue his ministry. It demonstrates a practical use of earthly law to serve a divine purpose.
### Summary
In summary, `{{G178}}` is a precise legal term whose rare appearances carry significant weight. It defines a key aspect of Paul's defense against unlawful treatment by local authorities. The word **uncondemned** is not merely a statement of innocence but an appeal to a higher standard of secular justice, demonstrating how civic rights were leveraged to navigate persecution and protect the apostolic mission.
TRV