ἐκλαλέω

I speak out, disclose

Definition

ἐκλαλέω means to speak out or disclose something that was previously hidden or private. It carries the sense of revealing information, often with an implication of making something known publicly or to a specific person. In its single New Testament occurrence in Acts 23:22, it describes the act of divulging a secret plot. The word emphasizes the 'outward' or 'forth' aspect of speaking, derived from its prefix ἐκ (ek), meaning 'out of'.

Biblical Usage

This verb is used only once in the New Testament, in Acts 23:22. Here, the Roman tribune Claudius Lysias instructs the young man who reported the Jewish leaders' plot to kill Paul to 'tell no one that you have disclosed these things to me.' The context is one of confidential information being revealed to an authority figure to prevent violence, highlighting a specific, purposeful act of disclosure.

Etymology

Derived from the preposition ἐκ (ek), meaning 'out of' or 'from,' combined with the common verb λαλέω (laleō), meaning 'to speak' or 'to talk.' Thus, ἐκλαλέω literally means 'to speak out.' It is a compound verb that intensifies the action of speaking to convey the idea of bringing something out into the open through speech.

Semantic Range

While used only once, this word is significant in the narrative of God's providence in Acts. The disclosure of the plot in Acts 23:22 is a key moment that ensures Paul's safe transfer to Caesarea, ultimately facilitating his journey to Rome to testify about Christ (Acts 23:11). It illustrates how God can use seemingly ordinary acts of human communication—even secretive reports to authorities—to protect His servants and advance the gospel mission.

In the Greco-Roman world, the act of disclosing secrets, especially concerning plots against individuals, had serious social and political ramifications. Informants or those who 'spoke out' could be seen as traitors by their own community but as loyal or useful by the ruling authorities. The tribune's command for secrecy in Acts 23:22 reflects an understanding of the potential danger and social ostracism the informant could face.

ἀποκαλύπτω (apokalyptō, G601) — to uncover or reveal, often used for divine revelation. λαλέω (laleō, G2980) — the root, a general term for speaking or talking. ἀναγγέλλω (anangellō, G312) — to announce or report news.

Word Details

Scripture References