ἀναβάλλομαι

Core Meaning & Semantic Range

The Greek word anabállomai, represented by G306, means to put off (for oneself):--defer. It appears 1 times across 1 unique verses in the Bible. This specific term conveys the act of postponing or delaying a decision or action.

Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis

The single occurrence of G306 is found in the account of the Apostle Paul's hearing before the Roman governor Felix. After Felix heard G191 the matters concerning Paul and had a more perfect G197 knowledge G1492 of "that way" G3598, he chose to defer judgment. He stated that he would make a final decision only when Lysias the chief captain G5506 came down Acts 24:22.

Related Words & Concepts

Several Greek words in this passage provide context for the act of deferral:

• G5344 Phēlix: The name of the Roman governor who deferred the matter, defined as "happy; Phelix (i.e. Felix), a Roman" Acts 24:22.
• G191 akoúō: This verb, meaning to hear, describes what Felix did before deciding to postpone the proceedings Acts 24:22.
• G197 akribésteron: An adverb meaning more exactly, it qualifies the level of knowledge G1492 Felix possessed about "that way" G3598, indicating his deferral was not due to a lack of understanding Acts 24:22.
• G1231 diaginṓskō: This term means to know thoroughly, i.e. ascertain exactly, and it is what Felix claims he will do once Lysias arrives, providing the reason for his delay Acts 24:22.

Theological Significance

The significance of G306 is tied entirely to its singular, specific context. It highlights a pivotal moment of deliberate inaction.

• Judicial Delay: The term is used in a quasi-legal setting, where a governor postpones a verdict. Felix deferred them, essentially putting the case on hold Acts 24:22.
• Knowledge and Inaction: Felix's deferral is significant because it occurred despite him having "more perfect knowledge" of the Christian faith, referred to as "that way" G3598. The choice to defer G306 was a conscious one, not born of ignorance.
• Postponement for Convenience: By deferring the matter until Lysias could come down G2597, Felix avoids an immediate and potentially difficult ruling, illustrating a common human tendency to put off challenging decisions Acts 24:22.

Summary

In summary, G306 anabállomai offers a precise definition for the act of deferral. Its sole appearance in scripture captures a moment of administrative and personal postponement. The action of Felix in Acts 24:22 serves as the definitive example, showing how a person with significant knowledge can still choose to put off a critical decision, linking the word forever to this specific act of judicial procrastination.