ἐγκαλέω (egkaleō)
egkaleō
to accuse
Quick Reference
- Language
- Koine Greek
- Testament
- New Testament
- Occurrences
- 7 verses
- Root
- —
Word Overview
The verb egkaleō describes the formal act of bringing a charge or accusation against someone. In the New Testament, it appears seven times, primarily within the book of Acts and in Romans. It conveys the specific legal or public nature of making an allegation, rather than just casual criticism.
This word is used to depict serious confrontations. For instance, in Acts 19:38, Paul’s associates are accused of causing unrest, while in Acts 26:2, Paul defends himself against the charges brought by King Agrippa. The term also appears in Romans 8:33, where it asks who will bring a charge against God’s chosen ones, highlighting its use in judicial contexts.
Etymologically, egkaleō combines a preposition meaning "in" or "upon" with a root related to "calling." This structure suggests calling something forward as a formal claim. Translators typically render it as "accuse" or "bring charges against," capturing the weight of legal opposition found in these biblical narratives.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
When we face false accusations, it can feel like the whole world is turning against us. The Greek word egkaleō describes a formal legal charge, a serious allegation brought in a court of law. In Acts, Paul and his companions faced these public charges, yet they stood firm in their innocence and faith. This word reminds us that while people may bring false claims, God sees the truth.
In Romans 8:33, the apostle Paul asks who can bring a charge against God’s chosen ones. The answer is clear: it is God who justifies. If the Creator of the universe declares us righteous, human accusations lose their power. We do not need to defend ourselves with fear or anger, because our standing before God is secure.
This truth offers deep peace in difficult seasons. When others misunderstand or misrepresent you, remember that your identity is rooted in Christ, not in public opinion. You are held by One who knows your heart completely. Rest in that assurance, and let it free you from the need to prove yourself to everyone.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 7 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- being accused2×
- I am accused2×
- will bring an accusation1×
- they were accusing1×
- they should accuse1×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- ἐγκαλοῦμαι2×
- ἐνεκάλουν1×
- ἐγκαλέσει1×
- ἐγκαλούμενον1×
- ἐγκαλεῖσθαι1×
- ἐγκαλείτωσαν1×
Key Verses
-
Romans 8:33
Who could bring a charge against God’s chosen ones? It is God who justifies.
This verse uses the word to pose a rhetorical question that highlights God's ultimate authority to justify, making any human charge powerless.
-
Acts 26:2
“I think myself happy, King Agrippa, that I am to make my defense before you today concerning all the things that I am accused by the Jews,
Paul identifies himself as the one accused by the Jews, showing how this term applies to formal legal defenses before rulers.
-
Acts 19:40
For indeed we are in danger of being accused concerning today’s riot, there being no cause. Concerning it, we wouldn’t be able to give an account of this commotion.”
The city clerk uses the word to warn that there is no valid cause for accusation, emphasizing the need for legitimate grounds in legal matters.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does egkaleō mean in the New Testament?
Where does this word appear most frequently?
How is egkaleō different from other words for 'accuse'?
Every Occurrence (7 verses across 2 books)
Acts 6 verses
If therefore Demetrius and the craftsmen who are with him have a matter against anyone, the courts are open and there…
Acts 19:40For indeed we are in danger of being accused concerning today’s riot, there being no cause. Concerning it, we wouldn’t…
Acts 23:28Desiring to know the cause why they accused him, I brought him down to their council.
Acts 23:29I found him to be accused about questions of their law, but not to be charged with anything worthy of death or of…
Acts 26:2“I think myself happy, King Agrippa, that I am to make my defense before you today concerning all the things that I am…
Acts 26:7which our twelve tribes, earnestly serving night and day, hope to attain. Concerning this hope I am accused by the…