### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **spekoulátōr**, represented by `{{G4688}}`, is a term of Latin origin used to denote an **executioner**. While its base meaning relates to a military scout, spy, or life-guardsman, its sole biblical usage defines a specific and grim role. It appears only **1 times** across **1 unique verses** in the Bible, making its appearance highly significant within its context.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In its single scriptural occurrence, `{{G4688}}` is used to identify the agent of a royal command. The **king** `{{G935}}` **immediately** `{{G2112}}` **sent** `{{G649}}` an **executioner** `{{G4688}}` and **commanded** `{{G2004}}` a **head** `{{G2776}}` to be brought. The narrative shows the executioner carrying out this order without delay, as he **went** `{{G565}}` and **beheaded** `{{G607}}` the prisoner **in** `{{G1722}}` the **prison** `{{G5438}}` [[Mark 6:27]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words from its only context clarify the role and actions of the **spekoulátōr**:
* `{{G607}}` **apokephalízō** (to decapitate): This verb describes the precise and fatal action the **executioner** was sent to perform, leaving no room for ambiguity [[Mark 6:27]].
* `{{G935}}` **basileús** (king): This term identifies the source of the authority who commands the **executioner**, highlighting that the act was a state-sanctioned killing [[Mark 6:27]].
* `{{G649}}` **apostéllō** (to send out (properly, on a mission)): This word emphasizes that the **executioner** was dispatched with a specific purpose, acting as an emissary of the king's decree [[Mark 6:27]].
### Theological Significance
The significance of `{{G4688}}` is found in its precise narrative function rather than broad theological weight.
* **Instrument of Authority:** The **spekoulátōr** functions as a direct instrument of the **king's** `{{G935}}` will. The word highlights a system of power where an order results in immediate and irreversible action [[Mark 6:27]].
* **A Word of Finality:** The choice of this term, translated as **executioner**, lends a stark and official finality to the beheading. It is not just a killing, but a formal execution carried out by a designated agent.
* **Latin Influence:** As a word "of Latin origin," its use points to the broader Roman political and military influence of the era, where a life-guardsman or military-style agent carries out a capital sentence.
### Summary
In summary, `{{G4688}}` **spekoulátōr** is a highly specific term whose meaning is sharpened by its single, dramatic use in scripture. While its origins point to a military life-guardsman, its biblical role is exclusively that of an **executioner** acting on a royal command. The word powerfully captures the swift and brutal exercise of authority in the narrative of [[Mark 6:27]], demonstrating how even the rarest of words can leave a lasting impact.
TRV