### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **apántēsis**, represented by `{{G529}}`, means a (friendly) **encounter** or to **meet**. It appears **4 times** across **4 unique verses** in the Bible. The term specifically denotes the act of going out to meet and welcome an arriving person or party, implying a formal and often celebratory reception.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In its biblical usage, `{{G529}}` describes significant welcoming events. It is used in the parable of the **ten** `{{G1176}}` virgins, who **went forth** `{{G1831}}` to **meet** the **bridegroom** `{{G3566}}` ([[Matthew 25:1]], [[Matthew 25:6]]). Similarly, it portrays the **brethren** `{{G80}}` who **came** `{{G1831}}` to **meet** the apostle **Paul** `{{G3972}}` on his journey, an act that caused him to **thank** `{{G2168}}` **God** `{{G2316}}` and take **courage** `{{G2294}}` [[Acts 28:15]]. The term finds its most profound application in the promise that believers who are **alive** `{{G2198}}` will be caught up to **meet** the **Lord** `{{G2962}}` in the **air** `{{G109}}` [[1 Thessalonians 4:17]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words provide context for the action of this special encounter:
* `{{G1831}}` **exérchomai** (to issue): This verb is frequently paired with `apántēsis` and describes the action of going out that precedes the meeting. The virgins **went forth** to meet the bridegroom [[Matthew 25:1]], and the brethren **came** to meet Paul [[Acts 28:15]].
* `{{G726}}` **harpázō** (to seize): This powerful verb describes the means by which believers will experience their future **encounter** with the Lord. They **shall be caught up** to meet Him in the clouds, highlighting the divine power involved in this event [[1 Thessalonians 4:17]].
* `{{G3566}}` **nymphíos** (bridegroom): The object of the meeting in the parable of the virgins ([[Matthew 25:1]], [[Matthew 25:6]]). This context frames the **encounter** as a celebratory event leading to a **marriage** [[Matthew 25:10]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G529}}` is significant, highlighting several key themes.
* **A Joyful Reception:** The word is used for a group going out to welcome an honored guest. The brethren’s arrival to **meet** Paul prompted him to **thank** `{{G2168}}` God and take **courage** `{{G2294}}` [[Acts 28:15]], and the virgins went to **meet** the **bridegroom** `{{G3566}}` for a marriage celebration ([[Matthew 25:1]], [[Matthew 25:10]]).
* **Eschatological Climax:** Its use in [[1 Thessalonians 4:17]] elevates the term to a key eschatological concept. The final **encounter** for believers who are **alive** `{{G2198}}` **and remain** `{{G4035}}` is to be **caught up** `{{G726}}` to **meet** the **Lord** `{{G2962}}` in the **air** `{{G109}}`, signifying their ultimate reunion with Christ.
* **Active Anticipation:** The act of going out to **meet** someone demonstrates preparedness and eager expectation. The virgins **went forth** `{{G1831}}` [[Matthew 25:1]], and a cry was made to **go ye out** `{{G1831}}` to **meet** him [[Matthew 25:6]]. This illustrates that the **encounter** is the culmination of a period of waiting.
### Summary
In summary, `{{G529}}` describes more than a simple meeting; it signifies a formal, welcoming **encounter**. The term is used to depict both the human act of brethren traveling to greet **Paul** `{{G3972}}` and the parabolic illustration of virgins going to receive the **bridegroom** `{{G3566}}`. Ultimately, it carries profound theological weight, pointing to the future moment when the church will be **caught up** `{{G726}}` to **meet** the **Lord** `{{G2962}}` in the **air** `{{G109}}`, the definitive and joyous reception of believers by their Savior.
TRV