### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **toûton**, represented by `{{G5126}}`, is the accusative singular masculine form of οὗτος, meaning **this** or **him**. It serves as a demonstrative pronoun, identifying a specific person or thing as the direct object of a verb or preposition. It appears **64 times** across **63 unique verses** in the Bible, highlighting its role in specifying the focus of action or declaration.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{G5126}}` is used to pinpoint a specific subject in crucial moments. It frequently refers to Jesus, identifying **him** as the one delivered by God's determinate counsel [[Acts 2:23]], exalted to be a Prince and Saviour [[Acts 5:31]], and whom God has made both Lord and Christ [[Acts 2:36]]. The word is also used to designate objects of great significance, such as "this temple" that Jesus promised to raise in three days [[John 2:19]] or "this stone" that causes some to fall [[Matthew 21:44]]. In other contexts, it identifies specific individuals, such as Moses [[Acts 7:35]] or the man from Cyrene compelled to bear the cross [[Matthew 27:32]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help establish the context in which `{{G5126}}` is used:
* `{{G1325}}` **dídōmi** (to give): This verb often precedes `{{G5126}}`, indicating that "this one" is the object being given or delivered. For example, God exalted Jesus in order "to give repentance to Israel" [[Acts 5:31]], and the Son of man shall "give" life [[John 6:27]].
* `{{G1012}}` **boulḗ** (counsel, will): This term defines the divine purpose behind the action directed at the person identified by `{{G5126}}`. Jesus was delivered by the "determinate counsel" of God [[Acts 2:23]], establishing that the events concerning **him** were part of a divine plan.
* `{{G129}}` **haîma** (blood): This word is theologically connected to objects identified by `{{G5126}}`. Partaking of "this bread" unworthily makes one guilty of the "body and **blood** of the Lord" [[1 Corinthians 11:27]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G5126}}` comes from its function as a specific designator, focusing the reader on a definitive person, object, or concept.
* **Object of Divine Action:** The word repeatedly identifies Jesus as the specific object of God's redemptive work. God exalted **him** [[Acts 5:31]], raised **him** up [[Acts 10:40]], and sealed **him** [[John 6:27]], emphasizing the focused and personal nature of salvation history.
* **Point of Human Decision:** `{{G5126}}` often marks a point of division that requires a human response. The crowds were forced to choose, crying out "Not **this man**, but Barabbas" [[John 18:40]]. Pilate is warned, "If thou let **this man** go, thou art not Caesar's friend" [[John 19:12]].
* **Focus of Apostolic Proclamation:** The central message of the early church is defined by this specificity. Paul is determined to know nothing "save Jesus Christ, and **him** crucified" [[1 Corinthians 2:2]]. The apostles declare **him** whom the Athenians ignorantly worship [[Acts 17:23]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G5126}}` is a simple but powerful pronoun that provides clarity and focus in the biblical text. By pointing to "this one" or "him," it eliminates ambiguity and directs attention to the central figures and concepts of the faith. It underscores the specificity of God's plan, the stark choices of human allegiance, and the precise focus of the apostolic message on the person of Jesus Christ.
TRV