ἀπειλέω

I threaten, forbid by threatening

Definition

The verb ἀπειλέω means to threaten, specifically to declare an intent to inflict harm or punishment. In its two New Testament occurrences, it carries the sense of issuing a stern warning or prohibition backed by the threat of negative consequences. In Acts 4:17, the Sanhedrin uses threats to forbid the apostles from speaking in Jesus's name. In 1 Peter 2:23, it describes Jesus's response to suffering: when he was insulted and threatened, he did not retaliate with threats of his own.

Biblical Usage

This word is used only twice in the New Testament, both times in contexts of confrontation and unjust authority. In Acts 4:17, it is used by religious authorities (the Sanhedrin) attempting to suppress the gospel message through intimidation. In 1 Peter 2:23, it describes the abusive threats hurled at Jesus during his passion, highlighting his non-retaliatory, entrusting response as a model for Christian conduct under persecution.

Etymology

Derived from the prefix ἀ- (a-, often intensive) and a root related to speaking or declaring (compare πέλω, to be about to happen). It fundamentally means to speak forth a declaration of impending harm or consequence. Its meaning is consistent with classical usage for making threats.

Semantic Range

This word is theologically significant as it contrasts human and divine responses to hostility. Human authority, as seen in Acts 4:17, uses threats to control and suppress God's work. In contrast, 1 Peter 2:23 presents Christ's refusal to answer threat with threat as the supreme example of patient endurance, entrusting judgment to God. This enriches the reading of 1 Peter by grounding the call to non-retaliation in the very character of Jesus.

In the Greco-Roman world, threats (ἀπειλαί) were a standard tool of social control, used by masters over slaves, officials over subjects, and in rhetorical contests to assert dominance. Public threats from authorities carried significant weight and were meant to instill fear and ensure compliance. Understanding this helps modern readers feel the pressure the apostles faced in Acts and the profound counter-cultural nature of Christ's silence in 1 Peter.

ἀναθεματίζω (anathematizō, G332) — to curse or declare accursed, a more severe form of malediction. ἐπιτιμάω (epitimaō, G2008) — to rebuke or sternly command, often to correct, not necessarily with a stated future harm.

Word Details

Scripture References