### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **laléō**, represented by `{{G2980}}`, means to talk or utter words. It is a foundational term for communication, appearing **308 times** across **271 unique verses** in the Bible. Its use ranges from simple conversation to the divine act of preaching and revelation.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In scripture, `{{G2980}}` is frequently used to describe the act of divine communication. God **spake** in the past through the prophets and has now **spoken** through His Son [[Hebrews 1:1-2]]. Jesus's own speech is presented as having ultimate authority and life-giving power, as his words are spirit and life [[John 6:63]]. The Holy Spirit empowers believers to **speak**, giving them utterance in other tongues [[Acts 2:4]] and providing the words they need in times of trial [[Mark 13:11]]. The source of speech is also a key theme, as the mouth **speaketh** from the abundance of the heart [[Luke 6:45]], revealing a person's inner character.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words clarify the nuances of communication and its counterparts:
* `{{G3004}}` **légō** (say, speak, tell): While often translated similarly, `{{G3004}}` typically refers to a systematic or set discourse, whereas `{{G2980}}` can describe a more extended or general act of talking. For instance, Jesus **spake** `{{G2980}}` to the people, and then began a specific saying `{{G3004}}` [[John 8:12]].
* `{{G191}}` **akoúō** (to hear): As the direct receptive action to speaking, this word is often contrasted with `{{G2980}}`. Believers are instructed to be swift to **hear** but slow to **speak** [[James 1:19]].
* `{{G5456}}` **phōnḗ** (voice, sound): This is the sound or tone through which speech is conveyed. A voice from a cloud can command listeners to **hear** the Son [[Matthew 17:5]], and a voice like a trumpet was heard **talking** with John [[Revelation 4:1]].
* `{{G4601}}` **sigáō** (to keep silent): As the direct opposite of speaking, this word highlights contexts where speech is forbidden or ceased. In the churches, for example, women are instructed to **keep silence** and are not permitted to **speak** [[1 Corinthians 14:34]].
### Theological Significance
The theological importance of `{{G2980}}` is demonstrated in its connection to divine truth and spiritual life.
* **Divine Revelation:** God's primary method of revealing His will and character is through **speaking**. He **spake** to the fathers by the prophets [[Hebrews 1:1]] and ultimately has **spoken** to us by His Son [[Hebrews 1:2]]. The words Jesus **spake** are not His own, but from the Father who sent Him [[John 12:49]].
* **Empowerment by the Holy Spirit:** The ability to **speak** divinely appointed truths is a work of the Holy Spirit. The Spirit of the Father is the one who **speaketh** in believers [[Matthew 10:20]], and it is the Spirit who gives them utterance to **speak** mysteries and the word of God ([[Acts 2:4]], [[1 Corinthians 14:2]]).
* **Proclamation of Truth:** Believers are commanded to **speak** the word of God with boldness [[Acts 4:31]] and to **speak** truth to their neighbors [[Ephesians 4:25]]. Those who **speak** should do so as the oracles of God, for the purpose of edification, exhortation, and comfort ([[1 Peter 4:11]], [[1 Corinthians 14:3]]).
* **Indicator of Spiritual Origin:** What one **speaks** reveals their source. He who is of the earth **speaketh** of the earth [[John 3:31]], while he whom God has sent **speaketh** the words of God [[John 3:34]]. The devil, as a liar, **speaketh** of his own [[John 8:44]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G2980}}` is much more than a term for simple talking. It is a critical word for understanding how God communicates with humanity, how the Holy Spirit empowers the church, and how a person’s heart is revealed. From the words of God spoken by prophets to the Gospel proclaimed by believers, **laléō** underscores the biblical emphasis on uttered words as the vehicle for divine truth, judgment, and life itself.
TRV