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G1726 · Greek · New Testament
ἐναντίον
enantion
Preposition/Adverb
before, in the presence of, opposite to

Definition

Enantion (ἐναντίον) means 'before,' 'in the presence of,' or 'over against' — indicating spatial or metaphorical presence before someone, especially before God or a crowd. It is used frequently in Luke-Acts: 'righteous in the sight of [enantion] God' (Luke 1:6); 'righteous before [enantion] all the people' (Luke 24:19); the miracles 'performed before [enantion] the people' (Acts 7:10). The word places actions in the visibility of a witness — particularly God as witness.

Usage & Theological Significance

Enantion establishes the coram Deo (before the face of God) perspective that runs through Luke's theology. When Elizabeth and Zechariah are described as 'righteous enantion God,' it means their whole life was conducted in the awareness of divine presence. This is not merely external religious observance but inner orientation — living as though God sees, because he does. The word also captures the public dimension of God's acts: miracles done enantion all the people are visible testimonies that cannot be privately denied.

Key Bible Verses

Luke 1:6 Both of them were righteous in the sight of [enantion] God, observing all the Lord's commands.
Luke 24:19 He was a prophet, powerful in word and deed before [enantion] God and all the people.
Acts 7:10 And rescued him from all his troubles. He gave Joseph wisdom and enabled him to gain the goodwill of Pharaoh.
Luke 20:26 They were unable to trap him in what he had said there in public [enantion the people].
1 Timothy 5:21 I charge you, in the sight of God and Christ Jesus and the elect angels...

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External Resources

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