### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek noun `{{G1906}}` (eperṓtēma) is derived from the verb `{{G1905}}` (eperōtaō), which means "to ask, inquire, interrogate." Therefore, the fundamental semantic range of `{{G1906}}` includes "an inquiry," "a question," or "an interrogation." However, its sole occurrence in the New Testament, [[1 Peter 3:21]], has led to a nuanced and debated interpretation, with the King James Version notably translating it as "answer."
Lexical analysis reveals a broader scope for `{{G1906}}` beyond a mere question. It can denote:
1. **An Inquiry/Question:** The direct product of the verb `{{G1905}}`.
2. **A Demand/Request/Appeal:** An earnest asking or petition, implying a volitional act.
3. **A Pledge/Commitment:** In certain contexts, particularly legal or covenantal, it can signify a solemn promise or undertaking made in response to an inquiry or as an act of commitment. This sense is crucial for understanding its use in 1 Peter.
The tension between "inquiry" and "answer" highlights the dynamic nature of the word, potentially encompassing both the act of asking and the substance of what is sought or committed. Modern scholarship largely favors the meaning of "appeal" or "pledge" in its specific biblical context.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The term `{{G1906}}` occurs only once in the New Testament:
* **[[1 Peter 3:21]]**: "The like figure whereunto even baptism doth also now save us (not the putting away of the filth of the flesh, but the answer of a good conscience toward God,) by the resurrection of Jesus Christ:" (KJV)
The phrase in question is "οὐ σαρκὸς ἀπόθεσις ρύπου ἀλλὰ συνειδήσεως ἀγαθῆς ἐπερώτημα εἰς θεόν" (ou sarkos apothesis rhypou alla syneidēseōs eperṓtēma eis theon).
Peter is explaining that baptism is not merely an external ritual of physical cleansing, but a spiritual reality that saves. The parenthetical clause clarifies what kind of "baptism" he means.
If `{{G1906}}` means "answer" (KJV), it would imply that baptism is the *response* of a good conscience to God. While not entirely incoherent, this interpretation struggles to align with the active sense of the root verb `{{G1905}}` ("to ask").
However, if `{{G1906}}` is understood as "an appeal," "a request," or "a pledge" (as favored by most modern translations like ESV, NASB, NIV), the passage makes profound theological sense:
* **ESV**: "Baptism, which corresponds to this, now saves you, not as a removal of dirt from the body but as an appeal to God for a good conscience, through the resurrection of Jesus Christ,"
* **NIV**: "and this water symbolizes baptism that now saves you also—not the removal of dirt from the body but the pledge of a clear conscience toward God. It saves you by the resurrection of Jesus Christ,"
In this interpretation, baptism is presented as the outward sign of an inward, sincere "appeal" or "pledge" made by a conscience that has been made "good" or "clear" through faith in Christ. This "good conscience" is not self-generated but is granted by God through the resurrection of Jesus Christ, which is the basis for salvation. The believer, through baptism, publicly signifies their turning to God with a sincere heart, seeking His grace and committing to live in accordance with His will. This active, volitional aspect of faith is crucial to Peter's argument.
### Related Words & Concepts
1. **`{{G1905}}` (eperōtaō):** The verbal root, meaning "to ask, inquire, question, demand." This foundational relationship underscores the active nature of `{{G1906}}`, leaning towards an "asking" or "seeking" rather than merely a passive "answer."
2. **`{{G4893}}` (syneidēsis):** "Conscience." This word is directly linked to `{{G1906}}` in [[1 Peter 3:21]] ("a good conscience"). The state of one's conscience is central to the meaning of the "appeal" or "pledge." It is a conscience made "good" or "clear" by God's grace, enabling the believer to make a genuine spiritual commitment.
3. **Covenantal Language:** The concept of an "appeal" or "pledge" resonates with the language of covenant. In the Old Testament, covenants often involved solemn promises and commitments made by individuals or groups to God. Baptism, in this light, can be seen as a New Covenant sign, an outward expression of an inward commitment and appeal to God based on the new relationship established through Christ.
4. **Faith and Repentance:** The "appeal of a good conscience" implies an act of faith and repentance. It is not a magical ritual but a demonstration of inner transformation and a turning towards God.
### Theological Significance
The singular use of `{{G1906}}` in [[1 Peter 3:21]] carries profound theological weight, primarily in its clarification of the nature of Christian baptism and salvation.
1. **Nature of Baptism:** It decisively moves beyond a purely ritualistic or external understanding of baptism. Peter explicitly states that salvation through baptism is "not the putting away of the filth of the flesh." This distinguishes Christian baptism from mere ceremonial washings or physical purification. Instead, it is intrinsically linked to an internal, spiritual reality.
2. **Role of Conscience:** The phrase "a good conscience" is critical. It signifies a conscience that has been cleansed, enlightened, and made right by God's grace through Christ's resurrection. It is from this renewed inner state that the "appeal" or "pledge" is made. This emphasizes the need for an inner transformation, not just outward conformity.
3. **Human Volition and Divine Grace:** While salvation is ultimately by God's grace through Christ's resurrection, `{{G1906}}` highlights the necessary human response. The "appeal" or "pledge" is an act of faith, a conscious turning to God, and a commitment to live in accordance with His will. It underscores that salvation involves both divine initiative and human response.
4. **Christ's Resurrection as Basis:** The passage concludes by grounding this saving act "by the resurrection of Jesus Christ." This emphasizes that the efficacy of baptism and the possibility of a "good conscience" are not inherent in the water or the human act, but entirely dependent on the victorious work of Christ over sin and death. His resurrection provides the power for new life and a cleansed conscience.
### Summary
The Greek word `{{G1906}}` (eperṓtēma) is a unique and theologically significant term, appearing solely in [[1 Peter 3:21]]. While its etymological root points to "an inquiry" or "question," its specific contextual meaning is best understood as "an appeal," "a request," or "a pledge." In this pivotal verse, `{{G1906}}` clarifies that Christian baptism is not merely an external physical cleansing but a profound spiritual act: the sincere "appeal of a good conscience toward God." This "good conscience" is not achieved by human effort but is a gift made possible by the resurrection of Jesus Christ. Thus, `{{G1906}}` underscores the internal, volitional, and faith-filled nature of true baptism, highlighting the believer's active commitment and reliance on God's grace for salvation, all grounded in the finished work of Christ.
TRV