### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **exanístēmi**, represented by `{{G1817}}`, is defined as to produce or beget, and also to arise or object. The base definition is "raise (rise) up." It is a specific term, appearing only **3 times** in **3 unique verses** in the Bible. Its usage is split between these two distinct meanings.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{G1817}}` is used in two key contexts. It is used to describe the obligation under the law of Moses for a man to marry his deceased brother's wife and **raise up** seed, or offspring, in his brother's name ([[Mark 12:19]], [[Luke 20:28]]). This usage aligns with the definition's meaning to "produce" or "beget." Separately, the term is used in Acts to describe how certain believing Pharisees **rose up** at the Jerusalem Council to object, stating that it was necessary for Gentile converts to be circumcised and keep the law [[Acts 15:5]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the context in which `{{G1817}}` is used:
* `{{G599}}` **apothnḗskō** (to die off): This word establishes the circumstance for using `{{G1817}}` in the gospels. The law to raise up an heir applies specifically when a brother **die**s without children ([[Mark 12:19]], [[Luke 20:28]]).
* `{{G2983}}` **lambánō** (to take): This is the action required to fulfill the obligation. The living brother is to **take** the widow as his wife before he can raise up seed for his brother ([[Mark 12:19]], [[Luke 20:28]]).
* `{{G4690}}` **spérma** (something sown, i.e. seed): This is the object of the action in the Gospel passages. The duty is specifically to raise up **seed**, meaning offspring, to continue the family line ([[Mark 12:19]], [[Luke 20:28]]).
### Theological Significance
The conceptual weight of `{{G1817}}` highlights two distinct principles within the biblical text:
* **Continuation of Lineage:** The command to **raise up** seed is a fundamental concept tied to inheritance and the preservation of a family name under the Mosaic law. It shows a legal and social responsibility to ensure a man's line did not end with his death ([[Mark 12:19]], [[Luke 20:28]]).
* **Formal Opposition:** The instance in Acts demonstrates the word's use for procedural action. To **rise up** in this setting signifies a formal motion or objection made within a council, highlighting a structured way of voicing dissent [[Acts 15:5]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G1817}}` is a term with a focused, dual application. It is used for the objective, physical act of producing an heir to **raise up** a family line, as well as the subjective, procedural act of a person choosing to **rise up** to voice an objection. Though it appears infrequently, its use points to important cultural and legal practices concerning both family and church governance.
TRV