### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **anthomologéomai**, represented by `{{G437}}`, means to **confess in turn** or **respond in praise**. Its base definition is from ἀντί and the middle voice of ὁμολογέω, and it is translated as **give thanks**. This term is exceptionally rare, appearing only **1 time** across **1 unique verse** in the Bible.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The sole use of `{{G437}}` is found in the account of Anna the prophetess in [[Luke 2:38]]. In the very **instant** `{{G5610}}` she came upon the infant Jesus, she **gave thanks likewise** `{{G437}}` unto the **Lord** `{{G2962}}`. This act of responsive praise occurred as she **spake** `{{G2980}}` of him to **all** `{{G3956}}` those who were looking for **redemption** `{{G3085}}` **in** `{{G1722}}` **Jerusalem** `{{G2419}}`. Her action is a direct and immediate response to recognizing the fulfillment of God's awaited promise.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words from its single biblical context illuminate the meaning of `{{G437}}`:
* `{{G2186}}` **ephístēmi** (to be present): This word, translated as "coming in," signifies Anna being present at a pivotal moment. The term can mean to be at hand or stand by ([[Luke 2:38]], [[2 Timothy 4:2]]).
* `{{G4327}}` **prosdéchomai** (to await): This describes the posture of those Anna addressed, who "looked for" redemption. It implies awaiting with confidence or patience ([[Luke 2:38]], [[Titus 2:13]]).
* `{{G3085}}` **lýtrōsis** (redemption): This is the reason for both Anna's praise and the people's waiting. It refers to a ransoming, which is the object of their confident expectation ([[Luke 2:38]], [[Hebrews 9:12]]).
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G437}}` is concentrated in its single, poignant appearance:
* **Responsive Worship:** The term's core meaning of responding in praise highlights that true worship is a reaction to a revelation or action of God. Anna **gave thanks likewise** `{{G437}}` only after she was present `{{G2186}}` and saw the child [[Luke 2:38]].
* **Acknowledgment of Redemption:** Anna's act of praise is a verbal confession that the **redemption** `{{G3085}}` of **Jerusalem** `{{G2419}}` had arrived. Her thanksgiving serves as a prophetic acknowledgment of Jesus's identity and mission.
* **Praise as Proclamation:** The act of giving thanks is immediately linked to proclamation. After giving thanks to the **Lord** `{{G2962}}`, she **spake** `{{G2980}}` of Jesus to all who were waiting, turning personal praise into public witness [[Luke 2:38]].
### Summary
In summary, **anthomologéomai** `{{G437}}` is a specific term used just once in scripture. Its meaning is not merely to give thanks, but to do so as a direct and immediate response to God's work. In its sole context, it captures the moment of profound recognition and worship when Anna sees the infant Savior, turning her personal praise into a public proclamation for all who awaited **redemption** `{{G3085}}` in **Jerusalem** `{{G2419}}`. It powerfully illustrates how seeing God's faithfulness results in responsive praise and witness.
TRV