### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **antilégō**, represented by `{{G483}}`, means to dispute or refuse. It is built from the words ἀντί ("against") and λέγω ("to speak"). Appearing **10 times** in **9 unique verses**, it describes various forms of verbal opposition, including to "answer again, contradict, deny, gainsay(-er)," and "speak against."
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In scripture, `{{G483}}` is used to describe resistance to divine figures and their message. Simeon prophesies that Jesus will be a "sign which shall be **spoken against**" [[Luke 2:34]], establishing that opposition would be a key element of his ministry. This opposition continued against the early church, which was known as a sect that is "every where it is **spoken against**" [[Acts 28:22]]. The word also denotes specific doctrinal denial, as when the Sadducees **deny** the resurrection [[Luke 20:27]]. In a practical sense, it describes insubordination, such as when servants are instructed against "answering again" to their masters [[Titus 2:9]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the nature of this opposition and its opposite:
* `{{G544}}` **apeithéō** (to disbelieve): This word for disobedience is explicitly linked with `{{G483}}` in [[Romans 10:21]], which describes a "**disobedient** and **gainsaying** people."
* `{{G1651}}` **elénchō** (to confute, admonish): This is the proper response to those who speak against truth. Leaders are to use sound doctrine to **convince** `{{G1651}}` the **gainsayers** `{{G483}}` [[Titus 1:9]].
* `{{G987}}` **blasphēméō** (to vilify; specially, to speak impiously): This represents an escalation of speaking against. In [[Acts 13:45]], those who **spake against** Paul's message did so by "contradicting and **blaspheming**."
* `{{G5293}}` **hypotássō** (to subordinate; reflexively, to obey): This is the direct antonym to the attitude of `{{G483}}`. Servants are told to be **obedient** `{{G5293}}` and not be "answering again" [[Titus 2:9]].
* `{{G2723}}` **katēgoréō** (to be a plaintiff, i.e. to charge with some offence): While `{{G483}}` is general opposition, this term refers to a formal charge. When the Jews **spake against** `{{G483}}` Paul's appeal to Caesar, Paul specified he did not intend to **accuse** `{{G2723}}` his nation [[Acts 28:19]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G483}}` lies in its portrayal of humanity's rebellion against God's authority and truth.
* **Opposition to Christ:** The word defines the world's reaction to Jesus. His identity as a sign to be **spoken against** [[Luke 2:34]] frames the conflict between the kingdom of God and the world.
* **Rejection of the Gospel:** The term is consistently used for those who oppose the apostolic message. The Jews **spake against** Paul's teachings [[Acts 13:45]], and the Christian faith itself was **spoken against** everywhere [[Acts 28:22]], highlighting the spiritual battle inherent in evangelism.
* **The Nature of Unbelief:** `{{G483}}` connects verbal defiance with a hardened heart. In [[Romans 10:21]], "gainsaying" is the outward expression of a people who are "disobedient" `{{G544}}`, showing that contradiction stems from an unwillingness to submit to God.
### Summary
In summary, `{{G483}}` is a crucial term for understanding the nature of active, verbal opposition to divine truth. It encompasses everything from insubordination within a household to the outright denial of core doctrines and the blasphemous rejection of God's messengers. It powerfully illustrates the biblical theme of conflict between faith and unbelief, showing how "speaking against" is a primary manifestation of a heart set against God.
TRV