### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **epieíkeia**, represented by `{{G1932}}`, defines a suitable mildness, equity, and fairness. It appears **2 times** in **2 unique verses** in the Bible. Its meanings include **clemency** and **gentleness**, highlighting a character of reasonableness and forbearance.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The two uses of `{{G1932}}` illustrate its application in different relational contexts. In his appeal to a government official, Paul asks to be heard based on the ruler’s **clemency**, implying a request for a fair and mild judgment [[Acts 24:4]]. In contrast, Paul grounds his appeal to the Corinthian believers in a shared value, beseeching them by the **gentleness** of Christ, which he pairs directly with meekness [[2 Corinthians 10:1]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the meaning of `{{G1932}}`:
* `{{G4236}}` **praiótēs** (gentleness, by implication, humility:--meekness.): This quality is explicitly paired with **gentleness** in the phrase "the **meekness** and **gentleness** of Christ" [[2 Corinthians 10:1]]. It is a key virtue believers are called to possess ([[Galatians 6:1]], [[Ephesians 4:2]]).
* `{{G3870}}` **parakaléō** (to call near, i.e. invite, invoke (by imploration, hortation or consolation):--beseech, call for, (be of good) comfort, desire, (give) exhort(-ation), intreat, pray.): This word for appealing or beseeching is used in both instances where `{{G1932}}` appears. Paul "beseeches" by Christ's gentleness [[2 Corinthians 10:1]] and "prays" for a hearing out of clemency [[Acts 24:4]], showing that `{{G1932}}` is a quality one can appeal to.
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G1932}}` is demonstrated in its specific applications.
* **An Attribute of Christ:** The word is used to describe the very character of Christ. Paul holds up the **gentleness** of Christ as a standard and a basis for his relationship with the Corinthian church, framing it as a divine quality to be emulated [[2 Corinthians 10:1]].
* **A Standard for Just Authority:** When Paul appeals to a ruler's **clemency**, he is appealing to a sense of equity and mildness that should characterize just leadership. It represents a reasonable and humane exercise of power [[Acts 24:4]].
* **A Foundation for Appeal:** In both of its occurrences, **gentleness** or **clemency** serves as the basis for an urgent appeal. It is the virtuous quality in another that allows for a plea to be made and heard.
### Summary
In summary, `{{G1932}}` provides a specific vision of gentleness that is both a divine attribute and a human responsibility. Though used rarely, it captures a crucial characteristic of Christ's nature and sets a standard for fairness and mildness in positions of authority. It is the quality that makes gracious relationships and just hearings possible.
TRV