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.
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.
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.
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.
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