The Greek word antapódoma, represented by G468, is defined as a requital or recompense. It appears 2 times across 2 unique verses in the Bible. The term is derived from ἀνταποδίδωμι and refers specifically to the thing given in return for an action.
In its biblical usage, G468 carries two distinct connotations depending on the context. In Luke, it describes a social exchange. Jesus warns against inviting those who can repay the kindness, "lest they also bid thee again, and a recompence be made thee" Luke 14:12. Here, the recompense is a simple, earthly return of a favor. In contrast, the Apostle Paul quotes David in Romans, using the term in the context of divine judgment: "Let their table be made a snare, and a trap, and a stumblingblock, and a recompence unto them" Romans 11:9. In this instance, the recompense is a negative consequence for their actions.
Several related words help clarify the meaning of recompense in these contexts:
- G479 antikaléō (to invite in return): This word describes the specific act of reciprocity that constitutes the recompense Jesus advises against seeking when showing hospitality Luke 14:12.
- G3803 pagís (a trap): This term is used directly alongside recompense in Romans, showing that a requital can be a form of judgment that acts as a snare Romans 11:9.
- G5132 trápeza (a table): The table, normally a place of provision, becomes the very instrument of negative recompense in David's curse, signifying that a blessing can be turned into a stumblingblock Romans 11:9.
- G4625 skándalon (stumblingblock): Paired with trap and recompense, this word further emphasizes the judicial and hazardous nature of the requital mentioned in Romans Romans 11:9.
The theological weight of G468 is centered on the principle of requital, both human and divine.
- Earthly vs. Heavenly Reward: The teaching in Luke distinguishes between receiving an earthly recompense from men and a future reward from God. Believers are encouraged to act without expecting a return from their peers Luke 14:12.
- Judgment as Recompense: Romans presents a more severe application, where recompense is a direct consequence of rebellion. What should have been a blessing—the table—becomes a source of judgment as a just requital.
- The Nature of Requital: The word illustrates that recompense is not inherently positive or negative. Its nature is determined by the original action and the context in which it is given, whether as a social return of kindness or a divine sentence.
In summary, G468 antapódoma is a precise term for a recompense or a requited action. Though used only twice, it powerfully illustrates a dual concept: the simple social reciprocation that one might receive on earth and the profound theological principle of divine judgment, where God provides a just and fitting requital for disobedience.
TRV