The Greek word ἀπαντάω (apantáō) means “to meet” or “to encounter.” It refers to the action of coming into contact with someone or something, often in the context of a physical meeting or encounter. The term can be used to describe various forms of meetings or interactions, whether intentional or coincidental.

Detailed Overview

1. Strong’s Concordance: Strong’s defines ἀπαντάω as “to meet,” emphasizing its use to describe encounters or meetings, typically in a literal or physical sense. The definition aligns with its general use in the New Testament to denote a meeting or encounter between people.
2. Bauer-Danker-Arndt-Gingrich (BDAG) Greek-English Lexicon: BDAG provides a more nuanced understanding of ἀπαντάω, noting its application to both physical encounters and the more abstract sense of coming into contact with or meeting someone. BDAG highlights various usages, including the context of formal or significant meetings.
3. Liddell-Scott-Jones (LSJ) Greek-English Lexicon: LSJ defines ἀπαντάω as “to meet” or “to come to meet,” reflecting its classical usage to describe physical meetings or encounters. The lexicon acknowledges its application in various contexts, including both personal and formal encounters.
4. Thayer’s Greek-English Lexicon: Thayer’s describes ἀπαντάω as “to meet,” particularly focusing on its use to denote a physical meeting or encounter. Thayer’s also notes its use in contexts where meeting someone is a significant or noteworthy event.

In summary, ἀπαντάω (apantáō) primarily means “to meet” or “to encounter,” referring to both physical and more abstract forms of meeting. Strong’s Concordance, BDAG, LSJ, and Thayer’s Greek-English Lexicon all emphasize its application to physical encounters and formal meetings, providing a comprehensive view of its meanings.