### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **epiboáō**, represented by `{{G1916}}`, means to **exclaim against**. It appears only **1 time** in **1 unique verse** in the Bible. The word is formed from ἐπί and βοάω, indicating a strong vocalization directed against a person or situation.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The single biblical occurrence of `{{G1916}}` is found in a formal declaration by Festus to King **Agrippa** `{{G67}}`. Festus presents a **man** `{{G5126}}` against whom **all** `{{G3956}}` the **multitude** `{{G4128}}` of the **Jews** `{{G2453}}` had "dealt with" him. Their interaction is characterized by the act of **crying** `{{G1916}}` out that the man "ought not to live any longer" [[Acts 25:24]]. This usage highlights a public, vehement outcry demanding a capital sentence.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words in the immediate context of [[Acts 25:24]] provide a fuller picture of this scene of accusation:
* `{{G1793}}` **entynchánō** (to entreat (in favor or against)): This word describes how the Jews "dealt with" Festus. While here it is used of an appeal against someone [[Acts 25:24]], it is also the same word used for Christ who lives to "make intercession" for believers [[Hebrews 7:25]].
* `{{G1163}}` **deî** (it is necessary): The crowd cries that the accused **ought** not to live. This word often carries the weight of divine necessity, such as how scripture **must** be fulfilled [[Luke 24:44]] or that men **ought** always to pray [[Luke 18:1]], creating a stark contrast with the crowd's demand.
* `{{G4128}}` **plēthos** (a large number, throng, populace): This specifies that the cry came from a **multitude**. The term is used elsewhere to describe the "multitude of them that believed" who were of one heart and soul [[Acts 4:32]], and also the **multitude** of sins that charity can cover [[1 Peter 4:8]].
### Theological Significance
The singular use of `{{G1916}}` contributes to a significant theological contrast between human judgment and divine purpose.
* **Collective Opposition:** The word is used in the context of a **multitude** `{{G4128}}` united in their demand for death [[Acts 25:24]]. This stands in opposition to the unity of the "multitude of them that believed" who were of "one heart and of one soul" [[Acts 4:32]].
* **Perversion of Necessity:** The crowd **cried** `{{G1916}}` that the prisoner **ought** `{{G1163}}` to die. The word for "ought" is frequently used for divine imperatives, such as the necessity for salvation through Christ [[Acts 4:12]] or the fulfillment of scripture [[Luke 24:44]], highlighting the crowd's attempt to frame their demand with ultimate authority.
* **Accusation vs. Intercession:** The appeal of the Jews is described as "dealing with" (**entynchánō**) the governor against a man [[Acts 25:24]]. This same root word is used to describe how the Spirit and Christ **make intercession** `{{G1793}}` for the saints before God ([[Romans 8:27]], [[Hebrews 7:25]]), contrasting a human cry for condemnation with a divine appeal for salvation.
### Summary
In summary, **epiboáō** `{{G1916}}` is a specific and potent word for a hostile outcry. Though appearing only once, its context in [[Acts 25:24]] provides a powerful illustration of collective, human condemnation. The act of **crying** for death is placed in sharp relief against the biblical themes of divine necessity, the positive unity of believers, and heavenly intercession. The word captures a moment where a human **multitude** exclaims against a man, in direct opposition to the grace and purpose of God.
TRV