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G400 · Greek · New Testament
ἀναφωνέω
anaphōneō
Verb
to cry out, exclaim, call out loudly

Definition

The verb anaphōneō means to call out with a loud voice — to exclaim, shout out, or cry aloud. It appears once in the New Testament (Luke 1:42), where Elizabeth "exclaimed with a loud voice" upon Mary's greeting, filled with the Holy Spirit.

Usage & Theological Significance

Elizabeth's Spirit-filled cry (anaphōneō) at the sound of Mary's greeting is one of the most beautiful moments in the infancy narratives. The unborn John the Baptist leaped in her womb, and Elizabeth broke forth in what can only be called a prophetic exclamation: "Blessed are you among women, and blessed is the child you will bear!" This spontaneous, Spirit-prompted outcry points to the nature of authentic worship — it cannot be contained or orchestrated. When the Spirit moves, the voice rises. Elizabeth's greeting echoes Deborah's song, Hannah's prayer, and anticipates the angelic chorus at Bethlehem: a woman, filled with the Spirit, shouting the glory of God's salvation.

Key Bible Verses

Luke 1:42 In a loud voice she exclaimed: 'Blessed are you among women, and blessed is the child you will bear!'
Luke 1:41 When Elizabeth heard Mary's greeting, the baby leaped in her womb, and Elizabeth was filled with the Holy Spirit.
Luke 1:44 As soon as the sound of your greeting reached my ears, the baby in my womb leaped for joy.
Psalm 98:4 Shout for joy to the LORD, all the earth, burst into jubilant song with music.
Luke 2:13 Suddenly a great company of the heavenly host appeared with the angel, praising God.

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External Resources

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