### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **akroatḗrion**, represented by `{{G201}}`, specifically denotes an **audience-room** or a **place of hearing**. Derived from ἀκροατής, it is a highly specific term that appears only **1 time** in **1 unique verse** within the New Testament, highlighting a unique and formal setting.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The single use of `{{G201}}` is found in [[Acts 25:23]], where it describes the location for Paul's hearing before King Agrippa. The text states that on the morrow, Agrippa `{{G67}}` and Bernice `{{G959}}` arrived with great pomp `{{G5325}}` and entered into the **place of hearing**. This was a formal assembly that included chief captains `{{G5506}}` and the principal men `{{G1851}}` of the city `{{G4172}}`. The entire event was orchestrated at Festus's `{{G5347}}` commandment `{{G2753}}` so that Paul `{{G3972}}` could be brought forth and examined.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words from the context of [[Acts 25:23]] help to define the atmosphere and purpose of the **place of hearing**:
* `{{G5325}}` **phantasía** (pomp): This word describes the (vain) show and ceremony accompanying the arrival of Agrippa and Bernice, emphasizing the grandeur and worldly authority present in the room.
* `{{G1525}}` **eisérchomai** (was entered): Signifying "to enter," this verb marks the formal entrance of the dignitaries into the `{{G201}}`, initiating the official proceedings.
* `{{G1851}}` **exochḗ** (principal): This term, meaning "prominence," describes the high-ranking and influential men of the city who were gathered in the audience-room to witness Paul's defense.
### Theological Significance
The significance of `{{G201}}` is tied directly to its singular, dramatic context.
* **A Formal Judicial Setting:** The use of **akroatḗrion** underscores that this was not an informal gathering but an official audience-room set for a legal hearing, lending gravity to Paul's testimony.
* **Contrast of Power:** The scene is characterized by worldly authority, marked by the presence of Agrippa, Bernice, chief captains, and principal men arriving with great pomp `{{G5325}}`. This display of earthly power in the **place of hearing** stands in stark contrast to the spiritual authority of the prisoner, Paul.
* **Stage for the Gospel:** This specific location becomes the official stage where, at Festus's command `{{G2753}}`, Paul is brought forth `{{G71}}` to give his defense, which becomes another opportunity to proclaim the gospel to rulers.
### Summary
In summary, while **akroatḗrion** `{{G201}}` is rare, its sole appearance is powerful. It designates the formal, high-stakes environment where the apostle Paul stood before the highest political authorities of the region. The term encapsulates a moment where earthly power and divine purpose converged in a single "place of hearing," providing a pivotal platform for Paul's defense.
TRV