### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **periochḗ**, represented by `{{G4042}}`, refers to a specific **passage** of Scripture. It appears only **1 time** in **1 unique verse** in the Bible. The term comes from a root meaning "a being held around," which concretely signifies a circumscribed or marked-off section of a text, translated as **place**.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In its sole biblical appearance, `{{G4042}}` is used to identify the specific **passage** of Scripture that the Ethiopian eunuch was reading. The text states, "The **place** of the scripture which he read was this..." [[Acts 8:32]]. This word serves to frame the subsequent quotation, emphasizing that a particular, circumscribed section of holy writ is being discussed, which describes a figure being led to slaughter like a sheep without opening his mouth.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help define the context in which `{{G4042}}` is found:
* `{{G1124}}` **graphḗ** (scripture): This word identifies the source material as holy Writ. It is foundational to the concept of a biblical passage, as all **scripture** is described as being given by inspiration of God [[2 Timothy 3:16]].
* `{{G1161}}` **dé** (but, and, etc.): A primary particle often translated as 'but' or 'and', it connects clauses and ideas. While it begins the sentence in [[Acts 8:32]], it is often used to introduce new information, as in "**But** seek ye first the kingdom of God" [[Matthew 6:33]].
* `{{G4967}}` **sphagḗ** (slaughter): This word conveys a sense of butchery or destruction. It is used in the passage identified by `{{G4042}}` and also to describe the suffering of believers, who are accounted as "sheep for the **slaughter**" [[Romans 8:36]].
* `{{G4750}}` **stóma** (mouth): Literally 'the mouth', it is used in the passage to signify speech, or the lack thereof [[Acts 8:32]]. It is also used to represent the source of confession and belief, as in confessing with the **mouth** the Lord Jesus [[Romans 10:9]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G4042}}` lies in its emphasis on the precision and focus of Scripture.
* **Specificity of Prophecy:** By identifying a singular **'place'** or passage [[Acts 8:32]], the term underscores that specific sections of Holy Writ were understood to have precise prophetic fulfillment.
* **Focal Point for Interpretation:** The use of `{{G4042}}` in [[Acts 8:32]] marks the starting point for a crucial evangelistic conversation. The identification of a specific **passage** is the catalyst for explaining its meaning, highlighting the need for guided interpretation of scripture.
* **Christocentric Scripture:** The single occurrence of `{{G4042}}` points to a passage about a suffering figure, connecting the Old Testament **scripture** `{{G1124}}` directly to Jesus. It demonstrates that scripture contains specific, targeted sections that testify of Him [[John 5:39]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G4042}}` **periochḗ**, while appearing only once, carries significant weight. It functions as a textual signpost, marking a specific, circumscribed **passage** of scripture for consideration. Its sole use in the narrative of the Ethiopian eunuch [[Acts 8:32]] demonstrates the importance of focusing on particular scriptural texts to understand their prophetic fulfillment. The word illustrates how a designated "place" in Holy Writ can serve as the gateway to understanding core theological truths.
TRV