The Greek word periéchō, represented by G4023, means to hold all around, include, or clasp. It appears 3 times in 3 unique verses, carrying figurative meanings such as to contain a statement, to be astonished, or to describe something done after a certain manner.
In its biblical usage, G4023 conveys different applications of being held or included. It is used in 1 Peter 2:6 to state that a prophecy is contained in the scripture G1124. In Luke 5:9, the word describes an emotional state, where an individual was astonished, or figuratively "held about," by the miraculous draught G61 of fishes G2486. Finally, it describes the form of a written document in Acts 23:25, where a letter G1992 was written after a particular manner G5179.
Several related words help clarify the contexts in which G4023 is used:
- G1124 graphḗ (scripture): This word for a document or holy Writ provides the context where G4023 means to contain a specific declaration 1 Peter 2:6.
- G2285 thámbos (astonishment): Used directly with G4023 in Luke 5:9, this term for stupefaction emphasizes the feeling of being completely seized or held by amazement.
- G1992 epistolḗ (epistle, letter): This word identifies the type of written message whose form is described by G4023 in Acts 23:25.
The significance of G4023 is seen in its varied applications:
- Prophetic Containment: The word affirms that scripture G1124 contains vital truths. It is used to introduce the prophecy of the chief corner G204 stone G3037 laid in Sion G4622, who is elect G1588 and precious G1784 1 Peter 2:6.
- Response to the Divine: G4023 is used to describe a powerful human response to a divine act. The disciples were completely astonished at the draught G61 of fishes G2486, demonstrating how a miracle can encompass a person's senses Luke 5:9.
- Communicated Form: The term is applied to the structure of human communication, where a letter G1992 is written to contain a particular style or manner G5179, indicating purpose and deliberation in the message Acts 23:25.
In summary, G4023 is a versatile term that illustrates the concept of "holding all around" in different ways. It shows how the scripture G1124 can contain a prophecy, how an emotion like astonishment G2285 can envelop a person, and how a document can be defined by the manner G5179 it contains. Though used infrequently, its appearances are notable for describing the inclusion of text, emotion, and form.
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