### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **ἄφνω (áphnō)**, represented by `{{G869}}`, is an adverb that means **unexpectedly** or **suddenly**. It is derived from a contraction of ἀφανής and appears **3 times** across **3 unique verses**. This term is used to describe events that happen without warning, often marking a moment of dramatic and unannounced change.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In its biblical occurrences, all within the book of Acts, `{{G869}}` consistently signifies moments of supernatural power or expectation. On the day of Pentecost, a **sound** `{{G2279}}` from heaven **suddenly** came like a rushing **mighty** `{{G972}}` wind [[Acts 2:2]]. Later, a great **earthquake** `{{G4578}}` occurred **suddenly** while Paul and Silas were in prison, shaking the foundations and opening the doors [[Acts 16:26]]. The word is also used to describe what onlookers anticipated for Paul after he was bitten by a snake, as they expected him to have **fallen down** `{{G2667}}` dead **suddenly** [[Acts 28:6]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help contextualize the abrupt nature of events associated with `{{G869}}`:
* `{{G1096}}` **gínomai** (to become, come into being): This verb is often used to describe what **came** to pass or **was** brought into being by the sudden event, such as the sound from heaven [[Acts 2:2]] or the great earthquake [[Acts 16:26]].
* `{{G4578}}` **seismós** (an earthquake, a commotion): This noun specifies the type of sudden event that shook the Philippian prison, highlighting a physical and powerful manifestation [[Acts 16:26]].
* `{{G3916}}` **parachrēma** (instantly, immediately): This adverb appears alongside `{{G869}}` in the prison account, emphasizing the immediacy of the results. After the sudden earthquake, all the doors were opened **immediately** [[Acts 16:26]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G869}}` is tied to its role in marking divine action and subverting human expectations.
* **Divine Intervention:** The word is used to signal a direct and unexpected act of God. This is clear in the sound from heaven that marked the coming of the Spirit [[Acts 2:2]] and the miraculous earthquake that freed the apostles [[Acts 16:26]].
* **Demonstration of Power:** Events described with `{{G869}}` showcase a power that is beyond human explanation. The **sound** was like a **mighty** wind that filled the entire **house** [[Acts 2:2]], and the earthquake was **great** enough to shake prison **foundations** `{{G2310}}`.
* **Subversion of Expectation:** The term underscores God's ability to defy what is anticipated. While people expected Paul to die **suddenly**, his divine protection led them to **change their minds** `{{G3328}}` and proclaim he was a **god** `{{G2316}}` [[Acts 28:6]].
### Summary
In summary, **áphnō** `{{G869}}` is a specific and impactful adverb that means **suddenly** or **unexpectedly**. Though used sparingly in scripture, its appearances are pivotal, marking moments of supernatural intervention and dramatic reversals. From the arrival of the Holy Spirit [[Acts 2:2]] to the liberation from a Philippian prison [[Acts 16:26]], `{{G869}}` highlights God's sovereignty and his capacity to act in ways that are immediate, powerful, and beyond human foresight.
TRV