Pronunciation Guide: ah-kree-BOCE

Basic Definition

Strong’s G199: ἀκριβῶς (akribōs) is an adverb that describes actions performed with exactness, thoroughness, and careful attention to detail. It conveys the idea of doing something diligently and precisely, leaving no stone unturned. The word emphasizes both the manner and the quality of an action, suggesting a methodical and meticulous approach.

Etymology and Morphology

• Adverb
• Derived from the adjective ἀκριβής (akribēs), meaning “exact, precise”
• Related to the verb ἀκριβόω (akriboō), “to investigate precisely”
• Primary usage in narrative and epistolary contexts
• Common in instructional and exhortational passages

ἀκριβῶς Morphology:

• ἀκριβῶς (adverb) – precisely, carefully, exactly
• ἀκριβέστερον (comparative adverb) – more precisely, more carefully
• ἀκριβέστατα (superlative adverb) – most precisely, most carefully

Origin & History

In classical Greek literature, ἀκριβῶς was frequently employed in philosophical and scientific writings. Plato used it in his “Republic” when discussing the precise nature of justice and the careful examination of ideas. The term became particularly important in Aristotelian works, where it described the exactitude required in philosophical inquiry.

The word gained significant usage in Hellenistic Greek, especially in legal and administrative documents where precision was paramount. It became a technical term in various professional contexts, from medicine to astronomy, where careful attention to detail was essential for success.

Expanded Definitions & Translation Options

• Performing actions with careful precision
• Examining something thoroughly and exactly
• Acting with diligence and accuracy
• Operating with meticulous attention to detail

ἀκριβῶς Translation Options:

• “Carefully” – Emphasizes the manner of action with attention to detail
• “Precisely” – Highlights the exactness of the action or investigation
• “Diligently” – Stresses the thoroughness of the approach
• “Accurately” – Focuses on the correctness and exactness of the result

Biblical Usage

In the New Testament, ἀκριβῶς appears in contexts emphasizing careful investigation, precise observation, and thorough understanding. Its usage spans both narrative and epistolary literature, often in contexts related to spiritual truth and proper conduct.

The word’s distribution in the New Testament shows its importance in both understanding divine truth and living out the faith. It appears in passages about searching the Scriptures, understanding God’s will, and walking in wisdom.

• “Go and search carefully [ἀκριβῶς] for the Child” Matthew 2:8
• “Look carefully [ἀκριβῶς] then how you walk” Ephesians 5:15
• “This man had been instructed in the way of the Lord; and being fervent in spirit, he was speaking and teaching accurately [ἀκριβῶς]” Acts 18:25
• “And he began to speak out 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 [ἀκριβέστερον]” Acts 18:26

Cultural Insights

In ancient Jewish culture, the concept of precise observation and careful study was deeply embedded in the tradition of Torah study. The rabbinical method of pilpul (careful analysis) reflects this same emphasis on precision and thoroughness that ἀκριβῶς represents.

The Greco-Roman educational system also highly valued precision in learning and teaching. The use of ἀκριβῶς in educational contexts reflects this cultural emphasis on thorough understanding and accurate transmission of knowledge.

Theological Significance

The use of ἀκριβῶς in Scripture highlights God’s desire for His people to approach His truth with careful attention and diligence. It suggests that understanding divine truth requires more than casual observation—it demands thorough investigation and precise application.

This word reminds us that God’s revelation is precise and purposeful, worthy of careful study and exact application. When used in ethical contexts, it emphasizes that following God’s ways requires thoughtful attention and precise obedience, not casual or approximate compliance.

Personal Application

The concept of ἀκριβῶς challenges believers to approach both their study of Scripture and their daily walk with careful attention and precision. It calls us to move beyond superficial understanding to deeper, more thorough engagement with God’s truth.

This careful attention applies not only to our study but also to our conduct. Just as we are called to examine Scripture carefully, we are also called to walk carefully, making precise and thoughtful choices in our daily lives.

Related Words

• ἀκριβής (akribēs) – exact, precise (pronunciation: ah-kree-BACE) – The adjective form describing the quality of precision See G196
• ἀκριβόω (akriboō) – to examine precisely (pronunciation: ah-kree-BO-oh) – The verb form indicating the action of precise investigation See G198
• ἐπιμελῶς (epimelōs) – carefully, diligently (pronunciation: eh-pee-meh-LOCE) – A similar adverb emphasizing careful attention See G1960

Did you Know?

• The word ἀκριβῶς was commonly used in ancient medical texts to describe the precise observation of symptoms and careful application of treatments, showing its importance in professional contexts.
• In ancient Greek astronomical texts, ἀκριβῶς was used to describe the precise calculations needed to track celestial movements, reflecting its association with scientific accuracy.
• The word continues to influence modern Greek, where ακριβώς is still used to mean “exactly” or “precisely” in everyday conversation.

Remember This

ἀκριβῶς calls us to approach God’s truth and His ways with careful precision, reminding us that both our understanding and our walk should reflect the exactness of His perfect revelation.