ἔκδοτος

given up, delivered up

Definition

The adjective ἔκδοτος (ekdotos) means 'given up' or 'delivered over' to a specific authority or fate. In its sole New Testament occurrence in Acts 2:23, it describes Jesus being 'handed over' or 'delivered up' according to God's definite plan. This term carries a strong sense of being surrendered into the custody or power of another, often with legal or judicial connotations. While used only once in the New Testament, its meaning aligns with the broader concept of betrayal and judicial handing over seen in the Passion narratives.

Biblical Usage

This word is used only once in the New Testament, in Acts 2:23, where Peter declares that Jesus was 'handed over' (ἔκδοτον) by God's set purpose and foreknowledge. The context is Peter's Pentecost sermon, explaining Jesus's death not as a random tragedy but as part of God's redemptive plan. The usage is highly specific and theological, directly linking human action (being handed over by lawless men) with divine sovereignty.

Etymology

Derived from the preposition ἐκ (ek, 'out of') and the verbal root related to δίδωμι (didōmi, 'to give'). Literally, it means 'given out' or 'given over.' It is a compound adjective formed from ἐκ + the verbal adjective -δοτος ('given'), conveying the sense of being given out of one's own possession or control into the hands of another.

Semantic Range

This word is theologically significant as it frames Jesus's crucifixion within the dual framework of divine sovereignty and human responsibility. In Acts 2:23, it underscores that Jesus was not merely a victim of circumstance but was 'handed over' according to God's definite plan. This enriches our understanding of the atonement, showing that the betrayal and death of Christ, while executed by human hands, occurred under God's sovereign control and for His redemptive purpose.

In the Greco-Roman world, the term could be used in legal or political contexts for extraditing a prisoner or handing someone over to authorities. This cultural understanding of judicial 'handing over' informs its use in Acts 2:23, where Jesus is portrayed as being lawfully delivered up, albeit through an unjust process, fulfilling a greater divine verdict.

παραδίδωμι (paradidōmi, G3860) — a more common verb meaning 'to hand over, betray,' used frequently for Jesus's betrayal (e.g., Matthew 26:2).

Word Details

Scripture References