### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **anágnōsis**, represented by `{{G320}}`, describes the act of **reading**. It appears **3 times** across **3 unique verses** in the Bible. The term consistently refers to the formal, public reading of scripture, serving as a foundational practice in worship and instruction.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In its biblical contexts, `{{G320}}` is shown as a central element of religious services. In a synagogue, the **reading** of the law and the prophets was a standard part of the gathering, after which an exhortation would be given to the people [[Acts 13:15]]. Paul instructs Timothy to "give attendance to **reading**, to exhortation, to doctrine," highlighting it as a pillar of pastoral ministry [[1 Timothy 4:13]]. The term is also used in reference to the **reading** of the old testament, which is understood fully only when the vail is taken away in Christ [[2 Corinthians 3:14]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help define the purpose and context of this reading:
* `{{G3874}}` **paráklēsis** (exhortation, solace): This is often the spoken application that follows the public **reading**. In the synagogue, after the scriptures were read, the leaders asked for a "word of **exhortation**" for the people [[Acts 13:15]].
* `{{G1319}}` **didaskalía** (doctrine, learning, teaching): This is the instruction derived from the text. Paul places **reading** as the basis for **doctrine** in his charge to Timothy [[1 Timothy 4:13]], and scripture itself is described as profitable for **doctrine** [[2 Timothy 3:16]].
* `{{G3551}}` **nómos** (law): This represents the sacred content being read. The public **reading** in the synagogue specifically included "the **law** and the prophets" [[Acts 13:15]], a collection of writings foundational to Jewish faith.
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G320}}` is evident in its specific applications.
* **Centrality in Worship:** The act of **reading** is established as a formal and indispensable part of communal worship, serving as the scriptural foundation for the sermon that follows [[Acts 13:15]].
* **Pillar of Ministry:** Paul's instruction to "give attendance to **reading**" elevates it from a mere activity to a core discipline of church leadership, standing alongside exhortation and doctrine [[1 Timothy 4:13]].
* **A Call for Revelation:** The term is used to contrast the physical act of **reading** with spiritual understanding. For the "old testament," the **reading** continues, but true comprehension is only possible when the "vail is done away in Christ" [[2 Corinthians 3:14]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G320}}` is more than the simple act of seeing and understanding words on a page. It signifies a structured, public, and foundational element of communal faith. As the basis for both doctrine and exhortation, this **reading** connects the written word of God to the life and understanding of the assembled community, whether in the synagogue or the early church. It demonstrates that the public hearing of scripture is an essential act of worship.
TRV