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G457 · Greek · New Testament
ἄνοιξις
Anoixis
Noun, feminine
Opening / The act of opening

Definition

The Greek noun anoixis (ἄνοιξις) means opening or the act of opening, derived from anoigo (to open, G455). It appears once in the New Testament in Ephesians 6:19, where Paul requests prayer that "words may be given him... in opening his mouth boldly to make known the mystery of the gospel."

Usage & Theological Significance

Paul's request for prayer for anoixis — the opening of his mouth — is profoundly humble. The man who wrote most of the New Testament epistles, who had visions and revelations, who stood before kings — this man asked for prayer to have the right words. The "opening of the mouth" language echoes the Psalms and prophets (Psalm 51:15; Ezekiel 3:27; 29:21). It acknowledges that true gospel proclamation is not the preacher's rhetorical skill but God's sovereign opening of the mouth. The same God who opened the mouths of prophets, who promised to give words to those brought before rulers (Matthew 10:19), is the one Paul trusted to open his for the sake of the mystery of Christ.

Key Bible Verses

Ephesians 6:19 Pray also for me, that whenever I speak, words may be given me so that I will fearlessly make known the mystery of the gospel.
Psalm 51:15 Open my lips, Lord, and my mouth will declare your praise.
Ezekiel 3:27 'But when I speak to you, I will open your mouth and you shall say to them, This is what the Sovereign LORD says.'
Matthew 10:19 But when they arrest you, do not worry about what to say or how to say it. At that time you will be given what to say.
Acts 8:32 He was led like a sheep to the slaughter, and as a lamb before its shearer is silent, so he did not open his mouth.

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