### 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.
TRV