The Greek word anabolḗ, represented by G311, is defined as delay. From its root, it means "a putting off." This term is exceptionally rare, appearing only 1 time in 1 unique verse in the entire Bible.
The single use of G311 occurs in the book of Acts. Speaking to King Agrippa, the governor Festus recounts his handling of the case against a certain man. Festus states that when the accusers arrived, he acted with immediate resolve, declaring, "without any delay on the morrow I sat on the judgment seat, and commanded the man to be brought forth" Acts 25:17. The word is used here to emphasize the absence of procrastination and the swiftness of his judicial action.
Several related Greek words in the surrounding text provide context for the concept of acting without delay:
- G1836 hexēs (next, morrow): Defined as "successive," this word works in tandem with anabolḗ to specify that the action took place immediately, "on the morrow" Acts 25:17.
- G968 bēma (judgment-seat): This term refers to a "tribunal" and establishes the formal setting where Festus's prompt action occurred. He sat on the judgment seat to begin the proceedings Acts 25:17.
- G2753 keleúō (order, command): This word for giving an "order" is the action Festus took without delay. He commanded the man to be brought before him for judgment Acts 25:17.
- G4160 poiéō (to make or do): This verb is integral to the phrase, literally meaning to "make" no delay. Its usage here underlines a deliberate decision to avoid postponement Acts 25:17.
The theological weight of G311 is derived entirely from its specific narrative context, emphasizing principles of action and justice.
- Administrative Diligence: Festus uses the phrase "without any delay" to portray himself as a diligent and efficient administrator of Roman law, one who does not put off his duties Acts 25:17.
- Urgency in Justice: The lack of a delay underscores the gravity of the proceedings. The case was deemed important enough to demand immediate attention from the governor on the day after the parties arrived Acts 25:17.
- Decisive Action: The term's use in this negative sense—the absence of a putting off—serves as a narrative marker for decisiveness, moving the legal process forward without hesitation.
In summary, G311 anabolḗ is a precise term for delay or "a putting off." Its sole biblical appearance in Acts 25:17 is in the phrase "without any delay," where a Roman official describes his own procedural swiftness. While not a major theological term, its singular use provides a clear illustration of urgency and the importance of decisive action within a judicial context. It demonstrates how even the rarest of words can offer sharp insight into a specific biblical moment.
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