### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **anapeíthō**, represented by `{{G374}}`, is defined as to incite or **persuade**. It is formed from ἀνά and πείθω. This term is exceptionally rare in scripture, as it appears **1 times** across **1 unique verses** in the Bible.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The sole use of `{{G374}}` is found in the book of Acts. It appears within an accusation brought against Paul, where his opponents are "Saying, This fellow **persuadeth** men to worship God contrary to the law" [[Acts 18:13]]. In this context, the word carries a negative connotation, suggesting an incitement to act against established legal and religious customs. The persuasion is framed as an illicit and disruptive act.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words from its single biblical appearance help to clarify its meaning:
* `{{G3004}}` **légō** (say): Defined as to "lay" forth or relate in words, this verb is used to introduce the accusation in [[Acts 18:13]]. It is a common word for speaking, as when Jesus is **saying**, "I am the way, the truth, and the life" [[John 14:6]].
* `{{G3754}}` **hóti** (that, because): This conjunction is used to introduce the substance of the accusation. It often serves to state a cause or demonstrate a point, as in the declaration **that** "all things work together for good to them that love God" [[Romans 8:28]].
* `{{G444}}` **ánthrōpos** (man): This word refers to a human being and identifies those being persuaded. It is used broadly for humanity, such as in the statement that **man** shall not live by bread alone [[Matthew 4:4]] or that the Son of **man** came to seek and save the lost [[Luke 19:10]].
* `{{G4576}}` **sébomai** (to worship): Meaning to revere or adore, this word describes the action being persuaded. It is used positively of those who are devout, like Lydia who **worshipped** God [[Acts 16:14]], and negatively in warnings against vain **worship** [[Matthew 15:9]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G374}}` is derived entirely from its specific context in Acts.
* **Controversial Persuasion:** The word's only appearance is within an accusation, highlighting the conflict between the gospel and established religious law. The act of persuasion is presented as an incitement to break from tradition.
* **Worship and Law:** The charge of persuading men to **worship** `{{G4576}}` God "contrary to the law" frames the central tension. This points to a shift from worship defined by the old covenant to one defined by the grace of God, a concept seen elsewhere when Paul and Barnabas **persuaded** new believers to continue in grace [[Acts 13:43]].
* **Framing of the Gospel:** The use of `{{G374}}` shows how the message of faith was perceived by its opponents as a dangerous and illegal incitement, rather than a call to a fuller expression of worship.
### Summary
In summary, `{{G374}}` **anapeíthō** is a term whose significance is tied to its singular, contentious use. While it simply means "to persuade" or "to incite," its appearance in [[Acts 18:13]] colors it as a term of accusation. It encapsulates the conflict inherent in introducing a new way to **worship** `{{G4576}}` God that was seen as being "contrary to the law," demonstrating how the persuasive power of the gospel was viewed as a threat by the established order.
TRV