ἀναφωνέω (anaphōneō)
anaphōneō
to exclaim
Quick Reference
- Language
- Koine Greek
- Testament
- New Testament
- Occurrences
- 1 verses
- Root
- —
Word Overview
The verb anaphōneō describes a sudden, loud cry or exclamation. It is not a quiet murmur but a vocal outburst that demands attention. In the New Testament, it appears only once, in Luke 1:42, where Elizabeth greets Mary with a shout of joy upon sensing the presence of the unborn Jesus.
This single usage highlights the word’s intensity. The sources note its connection to calling out or shouting aloud, often in contexts of surprise or strong emotion. Unlike words for general speaking, anaphōneō implies a spontaneous reaction, breaking through normal speech with forceful expression.
Its rarity in Scripture makes this occurrence stand out. By using this specific term, Luke emphasizes the overwhelming nature of Elizabeth’s recognition and joy. The word captures a moment where emotion overrides restraint, resulting in a public declaration that cannot be contained.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
When Elizabeth greeted Mary, her joy was so overwhelming that it burst out in a loud cry. The Greek word used here describes a sudden exclamation, not a polite whisper or a calculated speech. It captures that moment when emotion becomes too strong to hold back, forcing a public declaration of truth.
This reminds us that faith is not always quiet. Sometimes the presence of God’s work in our lives demands an audible response. Whether it is joy, awe, or relief, genuine encounters with grace often break through our restraint. We do not need to suppress our reactions; instead, we can let our hearts speak loudly when God moves.
May you find the freedom to express your gratitude and wonder openly. Your voice matters when it reflects the reality of God’s presence in your daily life.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 1 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- she cried out1×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- ἀνεφώνησεν1×
Key Verses
-
Luke 1:42
She called out with a loud voice and said, “Blessed are you among women, and blessed is the fruit of your womb!
This verse uses the word to describe Elizabeth's spontaneous shout of joy, highlighting how the Holy Spirit prompted an immediate, loud declaration upon sensing Jesus in Mary's womb.