ἀποτολμάω

Core Meaning & Semantic Range

The Greek word apotolmáō, represented by G662, is defined as to venture plainly or to be very bold. This term is exceptionally rare, appearing only 1 time in 1 unique verse in the entire Bible, making its single usage highly significant.

Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis

The sole appearance of G662 is in Romans 10:20, where it describes the prophet Isaiah. The passage states, "But Esaias is very bold, and saith, I was found of them that sought me not; I was made manifest unto them that asked not after me." Here, the word characterizes the courage and plain-spoken nature of the prophet in delivering a message about God revealing Himself to those who were not actively looking for Him.

Related Words & Concepts

Several related words from its context help illuminate its meaning:

• G2268 Hēsaḯas (Esaias): This refers to the prophet Isaiah, the one described as being very bold. He is identified elsewhere as the one who prophesied about preparing the way of the Lord John 1:23.
• G2212 zētéō (to seek): This word is central to the bold statement, as God was found by those who did not seek Him. Its importance is highlighted in commands like "seek ye first the kingdom of God" Matthew 6:33.
• G2147 heurískō (to find): As the counterpart to seeking, this word describes the result of the search. The boldness of Isaiah's message is that God allows Himself to be found even without being sought, contrasting with the principle, "seek, and ye shall find" Matthew 7:7.

Theological Significance

The theological weight of G662 is concentrated in its single, powerful application.

• Prophetic Courage: The term directly defines a key characteristic of a prophet, Esaias G2268, who must speak plainly and courageously, even when the message is unexpected Romans 10:20.
• Sovereign Grace: The substance of the bold proclamation is that God takes the initiative. He allows Himself to be found G2147 by those who did not seek G2212 Him and becomes manifest G1717 to those who did not ask G1905 for Him.
• Revelation to the Gentiles: Isaiah's boldness lies in declaring God's plan of revelation extends beyond those who were actively in a covenant relationship or seeking Him, a foundational concept for God's universal offer of salvation.

Summary

In summary, while G662 is used only once, its meaning is profound. It encapsulates the concept of prophetic boldness required to declare God's sovereign grace. The word is forever tied to the stunning message of a God who makes Himself known and available to be found by those who were not even searching for Him, as stated by Esaias Romans 10:20.