### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
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.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
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]].
### Related Words & Concepts
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]].
### Theological Significance
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]].
### Summary
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