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an´sẽr: In our English Bible the word “answer†does not always mean a simple reply to a question.
1. In the Old Testament
Six different words are translated by answer. (1) It is frequently used where no question has been asked and in such cases it means a word, a statement. (2) It also means a response (; ). (3) It often means a declaration or proclamation from God where no question has been asked. See the many passages that read: “The Lord answered and said.†(4) The other words translated “answer†or “answered†in the Old Testament are unimportant shadings and variations.
2. In the New Testament
The words translated “answer†are not so varied. (1) It sometimes means an apology, a defense (; , ). (2) It may mean simply “to say†(). (3) It may mean a revelation from God (). (4) It is also used to apply to unspoken thoughts of the heart, especially in the sayings of Jesus; also by Peter to Sapphira ().