### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **hósper**, represented by `{{G3746}}`, is a specific term defined as "who especially" and translated as **whomsoever**. It is a rare word in the New Testament, appearing only **1 time** in **1 unique verse**, making its single occurrence particularly significant.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The sole use of `{{G3746}}` is in the context of a custom at a feast where a governor would release a prisoner. In [[Mark 15:6]], the text states that at the feast, he released "one prisoner, **whomsoever** they desired." The word emphasizes that the choice was not arbitrary but was given specifically to the people; the individual released would be the very one they requested, highlighting the specific and definite nature of their selection.
### Related Words & Concepts
The context of `{{G3746}}` is illuminated by several key words from its only verse of appearance:
* `{{G630}}` **apolýō** (to free fully... release, dismiss): This is the action performed on the person identified by **hósper**. It signifies a complete release from bondage, and is also used in scripture for forgiveness [[Luke 6:37]] and divorce [[Matthew 19:9]].
* `{{G1198}}` **désmios** (a captive... prisoner): This defines the status of the person to be chosen. The term is used elsewhere to describe Paul as a **prisoner** of the Lord [[Ephesians 4:1]] and those in bonds whom believers should remember [[Hebrews 13:3]].
* `{{G154}}` **aitéō** (to ask... desire, require): This is the action of the people which determines who is chosen. The word is frequently used in the context of asking God for things in prayer ([[Matthew 7:7]], [[1 John 5:14]]).
* `{{G1520}}` **heîs** (one): This numeral specifies that only a single prisoner would be released, making the choice of "**whomsoever**" all the more critical.
### Theological Significance
Despite its single usage, the theological weight of `{{G3746}}` is found in the critical choice it enables.
* **Human Agency:** The word underscores the principle of human choice and desire. The release of the prisoner is directly tied to the will of the people—"**whomsoever** they desired" [[Mark 15:6]], placing the responsibility for the outcome on their request.
* **A Custom of Pardon:** The use of `{{G3746}}` occurs within a customary release of a **prisoner** `{{G1198}}` during a **feast** `{{G1859}}`. This act serves as a physical illustration of pardon, where a captive is set at liberty based on a specific choice.
* **The Specificity of Choice:** By meaning "who especially," `{{G3746}}` removes ambiguity. It indicates that a particular, named individual was requested and subsequently released, making it a pivotal term in the narrative's progression.
### Summary
In summary, **hósper** `{{G3746}}` is a precise and impactful word. Though it appears only once, its role in [[Mark 15:6]] is crucial. It functions as the grammatical hinge upon which a significant choice is made, identifying the specific individual to be released from imprisonment according to the desire of the people. It connects the concepts of human will, pardon, and the customs of a biblical feast in one defining moment.
TRV