ζήτημα

a question, dispute

Definition

ζήτημα refers to a formal question, inquiry, or dispute, often of a legal or theological nature. In the New Testament, it consistently denotes a serious matter under debate or investigation. In Acts 15:2 and 26:3, it describes a theological 'dispute' or 'question' requiring resolution, specifically concerning Gentile conversion and Paul's beliefs. In the Roman legal contexts of Acts 18:15, 23:29, and 25:19, it shifts to mean a formal 'charge' or 'point of controversy' brought before a magistrate, highlighting its use in judicial proceedings.

Biblical Usage

This word is used exclusively in the Book of Acts, always in contexts of formal debate or legal proceedings. It appears in two primary settings: internal church disputes over doctrine (Acts 15:2) and external legal charges brought before Roman authorities (Acts 18:15, 23:29, 25:19, 26:3). The pattern shows it is a technical term for a serious matter requiring an official decision, whether ecclesiastical or civil.

Etymology

Derived from the verb ζητέω (zēteō, G2212), meaning 'to seek, inquire, or demand.' The noun form ζήτημα thus denotes 'that which is sought' or 'the subject of an inquiry.' It belongs to a word family concerning investigation and debate, with the core idea of a matter actively being questioned or disputed.

Semantic Range

ζήτημα is theologically significant as it captures the nature of early church conflicts and their interface with secular authority. It shows that doctrinal disputes (like in Acts 15) were treated as serious formal inquiries essential for church unity and definition. Furthermore, its use in Paul's trials illustrates how the gospel message itself became a formal 'charge' or 'controversy' in the Roman world, highlighting the clash between Christian truth claims and earthly legal systems. Understanding this term enriches reading by framing these passages as official proceedings, not casual disagreements.

In the Greco-Roman world, a ζήτημα was a formal point of contention, often in philosophical, rhetorical, or legal settings. It implied a structured debate or a legal case requiring adjudication, not a simple or informal question. This cultural understanding differs from a modern casual inquiry, as it carried weight and demanded a resolution from a proper authority, be it a council of elders or a Roman official.

λόγος (logos, G3056) — a broader term for 'word,' 'matter,' or 'account,' not specifically a formal dispute. ἐρώτημα (erōtēma, G2062) — a 'question' or 'request,' often less contentious and more for information. ζήτησις (zētēsis, G2214) — the closely related 'act of questioning' or 'debate,' focusing more on the process than the subject matter itself.

Word Details

Scripture References