middle voice from a compound of ἀπό and λόγος; to give an account (legal plea) of oneself, i.e. exculpate (self):--answer (for self), make defence, excuse (self), speak for self.
### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **apologéomai**, represented by `{{G626}}`, refers to the act of making a **defense** or giving a formal account of oneself. It appears **11 times** across **10 unique verses**, and its base definition is to give an account or legal plea to exculpate oneself. This is reflected in its various translations, including to **"answer for self," "make defence,"** and **"excuse (self)."**
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In scripture, `{{G626}}` is frequently used in legal or quasi-legal contexts, particularly in the book of Acts to describe the apostle Paul's formal defenses. For instance, he is permitted to **speak for himself** before King Agrippa [[Acts 26:1]] and **answers for himself** against accusations concerning the Jewish law, the temple, and Caesar [[Acts 25:8]]. The term is also used when instructing believers not to premeditate how they will **answer** when brought before magistrates and powers [[Luke 21:14]]. Beyond a legal setting, it can describe the inner workings of the conscience, which is capable of **excusing** one's thoughts [[Romans 2:15]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the meaning of making a defense:
* `{{G1458}}` **enkaléō** (to accuse, call in question): This word provides the context of accusation that necessitates a defense. Paul prepares to **answer for himself** `{{G626}}` concerning all the things whereof he is **accused** by the Jews [[Acts 26:2]].
* `{{G3004}}` **légō** (to speak or say): This general term for speaking is distinguished from the specific act of defending. King Agrippa first **permits** Paul to **speak** `{{G3004}}`, after which Paul proceeds to **answer for himself** `{{G626}}` [[Acts 26:1]].
* `{{G2923}}` **kritḗs** (a judge): This establishes the formal, often legal, setting for an apology. Paul states he will cheerfully **answer** for himself `{{G626}}` before the governor, whom he acknowledges has been a **judge** for many years [[Acts 24:10]].
### Theological Significance
The use of `{{G626}}` carries significant practical and theological weight, particularly regarding testimony and conscience.
* **A Reasoned Defense of Faith:** The word underscores the call for a reasoned account when one's faith is challenged. Paul considers himself "happy" to **answer for himself** before King Agrippa, viewing it as an opportunity to testify [[Acts 26:2]].
* **Divine Empowerment in Testimony:** Believers are instructed not to **meditate before** what they will **answer** [[Luke 21:14]], implying a reliance on divine assistance when called to account for their faith before authorities [[Luke 12:11]].
* **The Court of Conscience:** The concept extends to the internal moral realm, where a person’s thoughts may be found **accusing** or **excusing** one another, demonstrating an innate process of self-defense [[Romans 2:15]].
* **Vindication of Ministry:** The term is also used when Paul defends his apostolic ministry to the Corinthians, clarifying his purpose is to speak before God for their edification, not simply to **excuse** himself to them [[2 Corinthians 12:19]].
### Summary
In summary, **apologéomai** `{{G626}}` is a dynamic term for a reasoned and formal **defense**. It is most often used to describe the act of answering accusations in a high-stakes setting, such as Paul’s trials before Roman rulers. It encompasses the believer’s duty to provide a defense for their faith, the internal moral accounting of the conscience, and the need to justify one's actions to others. The word consistently appears in contexts of accusation and vindication, where one must **answer for self**.
TRV