STRONGS NT 351a: ἀνακυλίωἀνακυλίω:

1. to roll up.

2. to roll back: ἀνακεκυλισται ὁ λίθος, Mark 16:4 T Tr WH. (Alexis in Athen. vi., p. 237 c.; Lucian, de luctu 8; Dionysius Halicarnassus, Plutarch, others.)

Strong’s Greek 351 designates a formal inquiry or judicial investigation. It pictures a structured process in which evidence is sifted and testimony weighed, aiming at a well-grounded conclusion rather than a hasty verdict. In the Greco-Roman world the term was common in courtroom language, reflecting Rome’s reputation for codified procedure.

Usage in Scripture

Acts 25:26 is the sole New Testament occurrence. Governor Festus explains to King Agrippa why he has arranged an audience with Paul:

“Yet I have nothing definite to write to our lord about him. Therefore I have brought him before all of you, and especially before you, King Agrippa, so that, after this examination, I may have something to write.” (Acts 25:26)

Here the word underscores Festus’ concern to conduct a legitimate review of Paul’s case before forwarding it to Caesar. Luke’s inclusion of the term assures the reader that Paul’s appeal to Rome proceeds under proper legal scrutiny, fulfilling Jesus’ earlier promise that His witnesses would testify “before governors and kings” (Matthew 10:18).

Historical and Cultural Context

Roman jurisprudence valued due process. A provincial governor like Festus was expected to gather precise accusations before drafting a relatio—an official briefing—to the emperor. Failure to do so could invite imperial displeasure. By noting the anakrisis, Luke shows that Christianity, though often maligned, could withstand the empire’s best investigative standards. This detail also reveals how God used Roman orderliness to protect the gospel messenger and carry the message to the heart of the empire.

Theological Significance

1. Vindication of the Gospel: The word highlights the transparency of apostolic conduct. Paul’s life and doctrine survive rigorous examination, illustrating Peter’s exhortation to keep a clear conscience so that “those who slander you will be put to shame” (1 Peter 3:16).
2. Divine Providence: The legal machinery of Rome becomes an unwitting servant of God’s plan. What appears to be Paul’s captivity is in fact the vehicle that transports the gospel to Rome (Acts 23:11; Philippians 1:12-13).
3. Foreshadowing Ultimate Judgment: Human courts conduct temporary examinations; God’s tribunal will render the final verdict (2 Corinthians 5:10). Luke’s narrative points the reader from earthly inquiry to eschatological accounting.

Application for Ministry Today

• Apologetics and Evangelism: Faithful proclamation welcomes honest investigation. Peter urges believers to “give an answer to everyone who asks you the reason for the hope” (1 Peter 3:15). Transparency and reasoned defense are part of Christian witness.
• Church Discipline: Paul counsels Timothy to handle accusations against elders only “on the testimony of two or three witnesses” (1 Timothy 5:19). Proper inquiry protects both the innocent and the integrity of the church.
• Personal Examination: While anakrisis is external scrutiny, believers engage in self-examination before the Lord’s Supper (1 Corinthians 11:28). Genuine faith is never afraid of the light.
• Social Engagement: Christians who serve in legal, academic, or investigative fields can emulate the fairness implied by the term—upholding justice while reflecting God’s character.

Related Biblical Concepts

• Dokimazō (“test, prove”) stresses discerning approval (Romans 12:2).
• Krinō (“judge”) emphasizes rendering a decision (John 7:24).
• Peirazō (“tempt, test”) can denote trial with potential for failure (James 1:13-14).

Together with anakrisis, these words present a biblical theology of testing: God examines hearts, authorities examine actions, and believers examine themselves, all under the sovereign eye of the righteous Judge.