The Greek anagnōsis (ἀνάγνωσις) means "reading" — specifically the public reading of Scripture in the assembly, which was a standard part of both synagogue and early Christian worship. From anaginōskō (G314, to read), it denotes the act or practice of public Scripture reading. The word appears three times in the New Testament, all in contexts of public worship and instruction.
The anagnōsis of Scripture in the assembled community is a fundamental act of Christian worship. Paul's instruction to Timothy — "devote yourself to the public reading [anagnōsis] of Scripture" (1 Timothy 4:13) — places Scripture reading alongside exhortation and teaching as the three essential elements of the worship gathering. In 2 Corinthians 3:14, Paul speaks of the veil that lies over Israel's hearts "when they read [tē anagnōsei] the old covenant" — showing that Scripture reading without the Spirit produces blindness, not understanding. The Colossian letter was to be read publicly, then passed on (Colossians 4:16), establishing the pattern of circulating Scripture among congregations. Public reading of God's word is an irreplaceable means of grace.