The Greek word apókrisis, represented by G612, defines a response or answer. Derived from ἀποκρίνομαι, this term appears only 4 times across 4 unique verses in the Bible. Though rare, its usage highlights critical moments of questioning, confrontation, and revelation.
In its biblical contexts, G612 is used to describe a reply that carries significant weight. It is used for the answers of a young Jesus, which astonished those who heard him Luke 2:47. In another instance, a powerful answer from Jesus caused his questioners to marvel and hold their peace Luke 20:26. The word also refers to a necessary report, as when the disciples of John the Baptist required an answer to give to those who sent them John 1:22. Conversely, the absence of a response is also noted, when Jesus gave Pilate no answer John 19:9.
Several related words help frame the concept of giving and receiving an answer:
- G1325 dídōmi: This word means to give and is directly linked to the act of providing a response, as in the phrases "to give an answer" John 1:22 or to have "gave him no answer" John 19:9.
- G191 akoúō: Meaning to hear, this word is essential to the context of an answer, as a response is intended to be heard. Those who heard Jesus were astonished at his understanding and answers Luke 2:47.
- G3004 légō: This verb, meaning to say or tell, describes the verbal action of producing an answer. It is used when John's disciples ask what he will say of himself to provide an answer G612 to those who sent them John 1:22.
- G4601 sigáō: Defined as to keep silent or hold peace, this term represents the direct opposite of giving an answer. After hearing Jesus's answer G612, the people held their peace Luke 20:26.
The significance of G612 is found in the impact of the response itself.
- Authoritative Response: The answers given by Jesus are shown to be profound, causing astonishment and silencing those who heard them (Luke 2:47, Luke 20:26). The response is not merely information, but a demonstration of wisdom and authority.
- Required Accountability: An answer can function as a formal report or a fulfillment of a duty. The need to "give an answer to them that sent us" highlights a structure of accountability and communication John 1:22.
- The Power of Silence: The deliberate withholding of an answer is also a significant action. When Jesus "gave him no answer," it was a potent and meaningful response in a critical moment John 19:9.
In summary, G612 is a focused term for answer or response whose importance is greater than its frequency suggests. It appears in contexts where a reply—or its absence—is a pivotal event. From the astonishing answers of Jesus that demonstrated his wisdom to the silence that baffled Pilate, apókrisis shows that in scripture, a response can silence opposition, fulfill a duty, or convey a powerful message without a single word being uttered.
TRV