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G1604 · Greek · New Testament
ἐκπλήρωσις
Ekplerosis
Noun, feminine
Fulfillment, completion

Definition

The Greek noun ekplerosis is the noun form of ekpleroo (to fulfill completely), meaning a fulfillment or completion. It appears only once in the NT (Acts 21:26), referring to the completion of Paul's Nazirite vow purification — the fulfillment of the required days of purification at the Temple.

Usage & Theological Significance

The single NT occurrence of ekplerosis is found in one of Paul's most controversial acts. To demonstrate his respect for Torah and his Jewish identity, Paul undertook purification rites with four men who had a vow (Acts 21:23-26). He paid for their offerings and waited for the ekplerosis — the completion — of the purification days. This episode illustrates Paul's principle of becoming "all things to all people" (1 Corinthians 9:22), acting within Jewish practice to reach Jewish people. The tension between his freedom in Christ and his pastoral accommodation is on full display. Fulfillment — of vows, of promises, of the Law — is always in view.

Key Bible Verses

Acts 21:26 The next day Paul took the men and purified himself along with them. Then he went to the temple to give notice of the date when the days of purification would end and the offering would be made for each of them.
Acts 18:18 Before he sailed, he had his hair cut off at Cenchreae because of a vow he had taken.
Numbers 6:13 Now this is the law of the Nazirite when the period of their dedication is over.
1 Corinthians 9:20 To the Jews I became like a Jew, to win the Jews.
Romans 10:4 Christ is the culmination of the law so that there may be righteousness for everyone who believes.

Related Words

External Resources

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