ἀκριβῶς
carefully, exactly, strictly
Definition
The adverb ἀκριβῶς means 'carefully, exactly, strictly, or accurately.' It describes an action performed with precision and thorough attention to detail. In some contexts, it emphasizes careful inquiry or investigation, as in Luke 1:3, where Luke states he investigated everything 'carefully' from the beginning. In other passages, it conveys the idea of strict adherence to instructions or plans, such as in Acts 23:20, where the conspirators urged the commander to bring Paul down 'exactly' as they had arranged.
Biblical Usage
ἀκριβῶς is used nine times in the New Testament, primarily in the Gospels and Acts. It often appears in narratives involving investigation, instruction, or planning. For example, Herod tells the Magi to search 'carefully' for the child in Matthew 2:8. In Acts, it describes Apollos teaching about Jesus 'accurately' though incompletely (Acts 18:25-26), and it is used in the plots against Paul (Acts 23:15, 20). The single Pauline use in Ephesians 5:15 exhorts believers to walk 'carefully,' not as unwise but as wise.
Etymology
Derived from the adjective ἀκριβής (akribēs), meaning 'exact' or 'precise.' The root relates to ideas of accuracy and carefulness. It is not from ἀ- (not) + 'kribōs' as sometimes mistakenly parsed; the etymology emphasizes precision and attentiveness.
Semantic Range
This word enriches the biblical call to diligent faith and wisdom. In Ephesians 5:15, it underscores the Christian's need for intentional, discerning living in a fallen world. Its use in Luke 1:3 highlights the historical reliability and careful research behind the Gospel accounts. Understanding ἀκριβῶς encourages believers to pursue truth with precision and to follow God's instructions with exactness.
In the Greco-Roman world, precision and carefulness were valued in legal, historical, and educational contexts. Luke's use of the term aligns with Hellenistic historiographical standards, which prized accurate investigation. The word's application in plots (Acts 23) reflects the meticulous planning common in political and personal intrigues of the time.
μετὰ ἀκριβείας (meta akribeias, G197) — a phrase meaning 'with exactness' or 'accurately,' emphasizing the manner of action. ἐπιμελῶς (epimelōs, G196) — 'carefully' or 'diligently,' with a focus on attentive care rather than precision.
Word Details
How this works
Definitions are from the Dodson Greek-English Lexicon, a concise public-domain resource suitable for introductory word study. Brief glosses are supplemented by STEPBible TBESG data (CC BY 4.0). For advanced research, standard scholarly references include BDAG (Danker, 3rd ed.) and LSJ.
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