### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **Ἰωήλ (Iōḗl)**, represented by `{{G2493}}`, is a proper name of Hebrew origin for the Israelite prophet **Joel**. It appears only **1 time** in **1 unique verse** in the Bible, making its sole occurrence a point of specific importance.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The single use of **Iōḗl** `{{G2493}}` is found in Acts, where Peter addresses the crowd on the day of Pentecost. He identifies the miraculous events they are witnessing as the fulfillment of a specific prophecy. The text states, "But this is that which was spoken by the prophet **Joel**" [[Acts 2:16]]. In this context, the name serves as a direct attribution, anchoring the new work of the Holy Spirit to established Old Testament scripture.
### Related Words & Concepts
The verse where `{{G2493}}` appears contains several key related words that provide its context:
* `{{G4396}}` **prophḗtēs** (a foreteller ("prophet"); by analogy, an inspired speaker): This title is explicitly given to **Joel**, signifying that his words are considered inspired and authoritative. It is used throughout scripture to identify those who speak on behalf of God [[Matthew 13:35]].
* `{{G2046}}` **eréō** (to utter, i.e. speak or say): This word describes the action of the prophet. The events of Pentecost are a fulfillment of what **Joel** was chosen to **speak** or declare [[Acts 2:16]]. God also uses this word when making promises, as in "he hath **said**, I will never leave thee" [[Hebrews 13:5]].
* `{{G1223}}` **diá** (a primary preposition denoting the channel of an act; through...by): This preposition shows that the prophet was the channel for the message. The prophecy was spoken **by** Joel, indicating he was the instrument of God's revelation [[Acts 2:16]]. Similarly, scripture speaks of man living **by** every word that proceeds from God [[Matthew 4:4]].
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of `{{G2493}}` is derived entirely from its singular, pivotal use.
* **Prophetic Fulfillment:** The mention of **Joel** is crucial for establishing the theme of fulfillment. The statement "this **is** that which was spoken" [[Acts 2:16]] directly connects the events of the New Covenant with the foretelling of an Old Testament **prophet** `{{G4396}}`.
* **Continuity of God's Plan:** By naming **Joel**, the narrative affirms that the events of Pentecost are not a random occurrence but a deliberate part of God's unfolding redemptive history, revealed in advance through his chosen prophets.
* **Authority of Scripture:** The appeal to the words "spoken **by** the prophet **Joel**" [[Acts 2:16]] underscores the authority of the prophetic writings as God's word, which must be fulfilled.
### Summary
In summary, while **Iōḗl** `{{G2493}}` is simply a name, its sole appearance is theologically significant. It functions as a crucial link in the biblical narrative, used at a key moment to validate the outpouring of the Holy Spirit by grounding it in the authority of Old Testament prophecy. The mention of **Joel** serves as definitive proof that the events of the early church were the fulfillment of what God had already spoken.
TRV