### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **boáō**, represented by `{{G994}}`, is a verb used to describe a loud, urgent utterance. It is defined as "to halloo, i.e. shout (for help or in a tumultuous way):--cry." Appearing **11 times** across **11 unique verses**, its usage often marks moments of high emotion, public proclamation, or desperate appeal.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{G994}}` is used in several distinct contexts. It is famously used to describe the prophetic announcement of John the Baptist as "the voice of one **crying** in the wilderness" ([[Matthew 3:3]]; [[Mark 1:3]]; [[Luke 3:4]]; [[John 1:23]]). The word also conveys a desperate appeal for help, as when a blind man **cried** to Jesus for mercy [[Luke 18:38]] or when the elect **cry** out to God for justice [[Luke 18:7]]. It can depict the chaotic shouting of a tumultuous mob ([[Acts 17:6]]; [[Acts 21:34]]) or the loud utterances of unclean spirits being cast out [[Acts 8:7]]. Jesus himself is shown to **cry** out from the cross in a moment of profound anguish [[Mark 15:34]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help to frame the context and nature of the cry expressed by `{{G994}}`:
* `{{G5456}}` **phōnḗ** (voice): This word is frequently paired with `{{G994}}` to specify the source of the cry, as in "the **voice** of one crying" [[John 1:23]]. It refers to a tone or address, and its presence emphasizes that the cry is an intentional, meaningful sound.
* `{{G3004}}` **légō** (say): This verb, meaning to relate in words or "to 'lay' forth," often follows `{{G994}}` to deliver the specific content of the cry. For example, a man **cried**, **saying**, "Jesus, thou Son of David, have mercy on me" [[Luke 18:38]], and Jesus **cried** with a loud voice, **saying**, "My God, my God, why hast thou forsaken me?" [[Mark 15:34]].
* `{{G4486}}` **rhḗgnymi** (to break): Meaning to "break," "wreck" or "crack," this word is used alongside `{{G994}}` to describe a sudden, forceful outburst of emotion. In [[Galatians 4:27]], the barren are commanded to "**break forth** and cry."
* `{{G4160}}` **poiéō** (to make or do): This word often describes the purpose or result of the cry. The voice **crying** in the wilderness calls on people to "prepare ye the way of the Lord, **make** his paths straight" [[Matthew 3:3]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G994}}` is significant, highlighting key dynamics in the relationship between God, humanity, and spiritual forces.
* **A Cry of Proclamation:** The use of `{{G994}}` for John the Baptist's ministry establishes it as a term for heralding divine action. The **cry** is not mere noise but a preparatory announcement for the coming of the Lord [[Mark 1:3]].
* **A Cry of Faithful Dependence:** The word often signifies an appeal made in faith. The elect **cry** to God because they trust He will avenge them [[Luke 18:7]]. The blind man's **cry** is an expression of his belief in Jesus' power to heal [[Luke 18:38]].
* **A Cry of Spiritual Confrontation:** The **cry** of unclean spirits signals their reaction to the presence and authority of the holy [[Acts 8:7]]. Similarly, the tumultuous **crying** of a mob represents human opposition to the divine message [[Acts 17:6]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G994}}` is more than a simple word for shouting. It is a term that captures the urgency and significance of a vocal outburst in moments of great importance. Whether it is the herald of a prophet, a desperate plea for salvation, the anguish of the Savior on the cross, or the chaos of a crowd, to **cry** out in scripture is to participate in a pivotal and revelatory event.
TRV