### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **auléō**, represented by `{{G832}}`, means **to play the flute**. It appears **3 times** across **3 unique verses** in the Bible. Derived from the word for flute, αὐλός (aulós), it describes the specific action of piping, often associated with celebration or signaling.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
Biblically, `{{G832}}` is used to illustrate a lack of appropriate response. In both Matthew and Luke, it appears in a parable about children in the marketplace who complain, "We have **piped** unto you, and ye have not danced" ([[Matthew 11:17]], [[Luke 7:32]]). Here, piping represents an invitation to joy that is ignored. In contrast, Paul uses the word in an analogy about spiritual gifts, questioning how one can know what is **piped** or harped if the instruments do not produce a distinct sound [[1 Corinthians 14:7]]. This context highlights the need for clarity and understanding in communication.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words clarify the context of `{{G832}}`:
* `{{G836}}` **aulós** (a flute): This is the noun from which the verb is derived, representing the instrument itself. It is used alongside `{{G832}}` to distinguish sounds from a **pipe** or harp [[1 Corinthians 14:7]].
* `{{G3738}}` **orchéomai** (to dance): This term signifies the expected, joyful response to piping. Its absence is noted when the children complain that others have not **danced** when they piped [[Matthew 11:17]].
* `{{G2354}}` **thrēnéō** (to bewail): This word is used as a direct contrast to piping, representing an invitation to mourning. It appears in the phrase, "we have **mourned** to you, and ye have not lamented" [[Matthew 11:17]].
* `{{G2789}}` **kitharízō** (to play on a lyre): This action is paired with piping to discuss musical instruments. Paul uses it to argue that sounds must be distinct to be understood, whether something is piped or **harped** [[1 Corinthians 14:7]].
### Theological Significance
The significance of `{{G832}}` extends beyond the simple act of playing an instrument.
* **Symbol of Invitation:** In the Gospels, piping is not merely music but a call to participate in a specific emotion—joy. The failure of the audience to dance signifies a stubborn or spiritually dull refusal to respond to a divine invitation [[Luke 7:32]].
* **Contrast of Emotions:** The term is consistently set against words of sorrow like **mourned** `{{G2354}}` and **lamented** `{{G2875}}`. This sharp contrast between piping for joy and wailing for grief is used to condemn a generation that responds rightly to neither [[Matthew 11:17]].
* **Metaphor for Clarity:** Paul uses the image of a pipe to argue for intelligible speech within the church. Just as a piper must play distinct notes for a melody to be known, spiritual gifts must be clear and understandable to be edifying [[1 Corinthians 14:7]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G832}}` is more than just a word for playing music. It functions as a powerful biblical metaphor for invitation, emotional expression, and the necessity of clarity. From the parables of unresponsive children in the marketplace to Paul's instruction on spiritual gifts, the act of piping illustrates the importance of both giving and receiving a clear message, whether it is a call to joy or a need for mutual understanding.
TRV