Acts 25:5
Let them therefore, said he, which among you are able, go down with me, and accuse this man, if there be any wickedness in him.
Original Language Analysis
Οἱ
G3588
Οἱ
Strong's:
G3588
Word #:
1 of 17
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
οὖν
Let them therefore
G3767
οὖν
Let them therefore
Strong's:
G3767
Word #:
2 of 17
(adverbially) certainly, or (conjunctionally) accordingly
δυνατοὶ
are able
G1415
δυνατοὶ
are able
Strong's:
G1415
Word #:
3 of 17
powerful or capable (literally or figuratively); neuter possible
ἐστιν
there be
G2076
ἐστιν
there be
Strong's:
G2076
Word #:
10 of 17
he (she or it) is; also (with neuter plural) they are
ἄτοπον
G824
ἄτοπον
Strong's:
G824
Word #:
11 of 17
out of place, i.e., (figuratively) improper, injurious, wicked
τῷ
G3588
τῷ
Strong's:
G3588
Word #:
13 of 17
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
Historical Context
Roman legal procedure required formal accusation, evidence, and defense. The 'able' (powerful) accusers would have been Sanhedrin members or chief priests, as common Jews lacked standing to bring capital charges. Festus's invitation acknowledges their religious authority while asserting Roman legal supremacy.
Questions for Reflection
- How does the principle of 'innocent until proven guilty' reflect God's justice and protect the vulnerable?
- What does Festus's careful language teach about maintaining neutrality when faced with politically charged accusations?
Analysis & Commentary
Let them therefore... which among you are able (οἱ δυνατοί, hoi dynatoi)—Festus invites 'the powerful ones' (Jewish leaders) to accompany him, revealing his awareness of the case's political complexity. His phrase if there be any wickedness in him (ἄτοπόν, atopon—'anything out of place, improper') shows presumption of innocence, a cornerstone of Roman jurisprudence.
The conditional 'if' is legally significant. Festus refuses to assume guilt, requiring accusers to prove charges through proper legal procedure. This contrasts sharply with the mob violence and assassination plots that characterized earlier Jewish attempts to eliminate Paul.