### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **eréō**, represented by `{{G2046}}`, is a foundational verb for the act of speaking, defined as **to utter, i.e. speak or say**. According to its usage statistics, it appears **76 times** across **71 unique verses** in the Bible. It often serves as an alternate tense for other words meaning "to say," and is used to convey a direct statement, command, or declaration.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In scripture, `{{G2046}}` is used to communicate divine promises, human intentions, and prophetic fulfillment. It is the word used when God authoritatively **says**, "I will never leave thee, nor forsake thee" [[Hebrews 13:5]]. The word is also used to frame critical theological questions, such as Paul asking, "What shall we say then? Is the law sin?" [[Romans 7:7]]. Jesus uses it to give commands, like telling his disciples what they "shall say" when sending for a colt [[Matthew 21:3]], and it is used to describe what was **spoken** by the prophets [[Acts 2:16]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the nuances of speech and communication:
* `{{G2036}}` **épō** (to speak or say (by word or writing)): This word is a close counterpart, with `{{G2046}}` serving as an alternate in certain tenses. It is often used to quote an authoritative source, as in [[Luke 4:12]], where it is **said**, "Thou shalt not tempt the Lord thy God."
* `{{G3004}}` **légō** (to "lay" forth, i.e. (figuratively) relate (in words (usually of systematic or set discourse))): This term often implies a more systematic or formal declaration. It is used when the King is preparing to **say** to those on his right hand, "Come, ye blessed of my Father" [[Matthew 25:34]].
* `{{G2980}}` **laléō** (to talk, i.e. utter words): This focuses on the act of uttering words. In [[John 12:50]], Jesus explains that His speech is not His own, stating that as the Father **said** `{{G2046}}` to Him, so He **speaks** `{{G2980}}`.
* `{{G2065}}` **erōtáō** (to interrogate; by implication, to request): This word is used for asking a question, in contrast to `{{G2046}}` which is for making a statement. This distinction appears in [[Luke 19:31]], where disciples are told what to **say** `{{G2046}}` if anyone should **ask** `{{G2065}}` them a question.
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G2046}}` is significant, highlighting the power and consequence of spoken words.
* **Divine Proclamation:** The word is a vehicle for God's unbreakable promises and foundational truths. God's character is revealed through what He has **said** [[Hebrews 13:5]], and Jesus' entire ministry is based on what the Father **said** to him [[John 12:50]].
* **Human Accountability:** `{{G2046}}` is used to articulate the words people will use to justify themselves before God, as well as their confessions. Many will **say** "Lord, Lord" on the final day [[Matthew 7:22]], and a person may hypothetically **say** to God, "Why hast thou made me thus?" [[Romans 9:20]].
* **The Power of Faith:** Jesus connects the act of speaking with the exercise of faith. He teaches that with sufficient faith, a person can **say** to a mountain to move, and it will obey [[Matthew 17:20]].
* **Prophetic Fulfillment:** The term frequently introduces or references what was **spoken** by the prophets, reinforcing the continuity of God's redemptive plan throughout history ([[Acts 2:16]], [[Romans 4:18]]).
### Summary
In summary, `{{G2046}}` is far more than a simple verb for speaking. It is used to convey divine authority, prophetic utterances, and the active expression of human faith or doubt. Through this word, scripture emphasizes that what is said—whether by God, a prophet, or an individual—carries immense weight and consequence, shaping reality and revealing the heart.
TRV