ἀκριβέστερον (akribesteron)
akribesteron
stricter
Quick Reference
- Language
- Koine Greek
- Testament
- New Testament
- Occurrences
- 4 verses
- Root
- —
Word Overview
The word akribesteron is a comparative adverb meaning "more exactly" or "with greater precision." It appears four times in the New Testament, all within the Book of Acts. The term suggests a heightened degree of care, accuracy, or thoroughness compared to a previous statement or action.
In Acts 18:26, Priscilla and Aquila take Apollos aside to explain "the way of God more accurately," refining his understanding after he had been instructed only in John’s baptism. Similarly, in Acts 23:15 and 24:22, the phrase introduces a request for further details or a clearer account of events, highlighting its use in contexts where clarity and specific information are needed.
Derived from the root akribeia (exactness), this form emphasizes a step up in precision. It is not merely about being careful, but about providing a more complete or refined explanation. This nuance helps readers see how early Christian leaders sought to clarify teachings and facts with increasing accuracy as circumstances required.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
When we seek to understand God’s truth, we often find that our initial grasp is incomplete. This word reminds us that clarity is a gift. In Acts 18:26, Priscilla and Aquila did not shame Apollos for what he knew; instead, they helped him see the way of God more accurately. This shows that spiritual growth often happens in quiet conversations where we help one another refine our understanding.
There is comfort in knowing that precision matters to God. Whether it is a leader seeking justice or friends sharing insight, the desire for accuracy reflects a heart that values truth. We are not expected to have every detail right from the start. Instead, we can trust that God provides the community and the moments needed to bring light into the shadows of our confusion.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 4 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- more earnestly2×
- more precisely1×
- more accurately1×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- ἀκριβέστερον4×
Key Verses
-
Acts 18:26
He began to speak boldly in the synagogue. But when Priscilla and Aquila heard him, they took him aside, and explained to him the way of God more accurately.
This verse shows the word used positively for pastoral correction, where believers help each other understand God's way with greater precision.
-
Acts 23:15
Now therefore, you with the council inform the commanding officer that he should bring him down to you tomorrow, as though you were going to judge his case more exactly. We are ready to kill him before he comes near.”
Here the phrase reveals a sinister plot, showing how the desire for exactness can be twisted to deceive authorities about Paul's fate.
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Acts 24:22
But Felix, having more exact knowledge concerning the Way, deferred them, saying, “When Lysias, the commanding officer, comes down, I will decide your case.”
Felix uses this term to acknowledge his existing knowledge of the Way, indicating he had enough information to delay judgment but chose not to act on it.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does akribesteron mean in the Bible?
Why is this word only found in Acts?
Is this word used positively or negatively?
Every Occurrence (4 verses across 1 books)
Acts 4 verses
He began to speak boldly in the synagogue. But when Priscilla and Aquila heard him, they took him aside, and explained…
Acts 23:15Now therefore, you with the council inform the commanding officer that he should bring him down to you tomorrow, as…
Acts 23:20He said, “The Jews have agreed to ask you to bring Paul down to the council tomorrow, as though intending to inquire…
Acts 24:22But Felix, having more exact knowledge concerning the Way, deferred them, saying, “When Lysias, the commanding officer,…