### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
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.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
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.
### Related Words & Concepts
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]].
### Theological Significance
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.
### Summary
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.
TRV