Acts 25:26
New International Version
But I have nothing definite to write to His Majesty about him. Therefore I have brought him before all of you, and especially before you, King Agrippa, so that as a result of this investigation I may have something to write.

New Living Translation
“But what shall I write the emperor? For there is no clear charge against him. So I have brought him before all of you, and especially you, King Agrippa, so that after we examine him, I might have something to write.

English Standard Version
But I have nothing definite to write to my lord about him. Therefore I have brought him before you all, and especially before you, King Agrippa, so that, after we have examined him, I may have something to write.

Berean Standard Bible
I have nothing definite to write to our sovereign one about him. Therefore I have brought him before all of you, and especially before you, King Agrippa, so that after this inquiry I may have something to write.

Berean Literal Bible
concerning whom I have nothing definite to write to my lord. Therefore I have brought him before you all, and especially before you, King Agrippa, so that of the examination having taken place, I might have something to write.

King James Bible
Of whom I have no certain thing to write unto my lord. Wherefore I have brought him forth before you, and specially before thee, O king Agrippa, that, after examination had, I might have somewhat to write.

New King James Version
I have nothing certain to write to my lord concerning him. Therefore I have brought him out before you, and especially before you, King Agrippa, so that after the examination has taken place I may have something to write.

New American Standard Bible
Yet, I have nothing definite about him to write to my lord. Therefore, I have brought him before you all and especially before you, King Agrippa, so that after the investigation has taken place, I may have something to write.

NASB 1995
“Yet I have nothing definite about him to write to my lord. Therefore I have brought him before you all and especially before you, King Agrippa, so that after the investigation has taken place, I may have something to write.

NASB 1977
“Yet I have nothing definite about him to write to my lord. Therefore I have brought him before you all and especially before you, King Agrippa, so that after the investigation has taken place, I may have something to write.

Legacy Standard Bible
Yet I have nothing definite about him to write to my lord. Therefore I have brought him before you all and especially before you, King Agrippa, so that after the investigation has taken place, I may have something to write.

Amplified Bible
But I have nothing specific about him to write to my lord. So I have brought him before all of you, and especially before you, King Agrippa, so that after the investigation has taken place, I will have something to put in writing.

Christian Standard Bible
I have nothing definite to write to my lord about him. Therefore, I have brought him before all of you, and especially before you, King Agrippa, so that after this examination is over, I may have something to write.

Holman Christian Standard Bible
I have nothing definite to write to my lord about him. Therefore, I have brought him before all of you, and especially before you, King Agrippa, so that after this examination is over, I may have something to write.

American Standard Version
Of whom I have no certain thing to write unto my lord. Wherefore I have brought him forth before you, and specially before thee, king Agrippa, that, after examination had, I may have somewhat to write.

Contemporary English Version
I have to write some facts about this man to the Emperor. So I have brought him before all of you, but especially before you, King Agrippa. After we have talked about his case, I will then have something to write.

English Revised Version
Of whom I have no certain thing to write unto my lord. Wherefore I have brought him forth before you, and specially before thee, king Agrippa, that, after examination had, I may have somewhat to write.

GOD'S WORD® Translation
But I don't have anything reliable to write our emperor about him. So I have brought him to all of you, and especially to you, King Agrippa. Then I'll have something to write after he is cross-examined.

Good News Translation
But I have nothing definite about him to write to the Emperor. So I have brought him here before you--and especially before you, King Agrippa!--so that, after investigating his case, I may have something to write.

International Standard Version
I have nothing reliable to write our Sovereign about him, so I have brought him to all of you, and especially to you, King Agrippa, so that I will have something to write after he is cross-examined.

Majority Standard Bible
I have nothing definite to write to our sovereign one about him. Therefore I have brought him before all of you, and especially before you, King Agrippa, so that after this inquiry I may have something to write.

NET Bible
But I have nothing definite to write to my lord about him. Therefore I have brought him before you all, and especially before you, King Agrippa, so that after this preliminary hearing I may have something to write.

New Heart English Bible
Of whom I have no certain thing to write to my lord. Therefore I have brought him forth before you, and especially before you, King Agrippa, that, after examination, I may have something to write.

Webster's Bible Translation
Of whom I have no certain thing to write to my lord. Wherefore I have brought him forth before you, and specially before thee, O king Agrippa, that after examination had, I may have somewhat to write.

Weymouth New Testament
I have nothing very definite, however, to tell our Sovereign about him. So I have brought the man before you all--and especially before you, King Agrippa--that after he has been examined I may find something which I can put into writing.

World English Bible
of whom I have no certain thing to write to my lord. Therefore I have brought him out before you, and especially before you, King Agrippa, that, after examination I may have something to write.
Literal Translations
Literal Standard Version
concerning whom I have no certain thing to write to [my] lord, for what reason I brought him forth before you, and especially before you, King Agrippa, that the examination having been made, I may have something to write;

Berean Literal Bible
concerning whom I have nothing definite to write to my lord. Therefore I have brought him before you all, and especially before you, King Agrippa, so that of the examination having taken place, I might have something to write.

Young's Literal Translation
concerning whom I have no certain thing to write to my lord, wherefore I brought him forth before you, and specially before thee, king Agrippa, that the examination having been made, I may have something to write;

Smith's Literal Translation
Of whom I have not anything certain to write to the lord. Wherefore I brought him to you, and especially to thee, king Agrippa, so that, examination having been, I should have some thing to write.
Catholic Translations
Douay-Rheims Bible
Of whom I have nothing certain to write to my lord. For which cause I have brought him forth before you, and especially before thee, O king Agrippa, that examination being made, I may have what to write.

Catholic Public Domain Version
But I have not determined what to write to the emperor about him. Because of this, I have brought him before you all, and especially before you, O king Agrippa, so that, once an inquiry has occurred, I may have something to write.

New American Bible
But I have nothing definite to write about him to our sovereign; therefore I have brought him before all of you, and particularly before you, King Agrippa, so that I may have something to write as a result of this investigation.

New Revised Standard Version
But I have nothing definite to write to our sovereign about him. Therefore I have brought him before all of you, and especially before you, King Agrippa, so that, after we have examined him, I may have something to write—
Translations from Aramaic
Lamsa Bible
But I do not know what to write Caesar concerning him, therefore I was pleased to bring him before you, and especially before you, O King A-grip’pa, so that when he is questioned, I may find somewhat to write.

Aramaic Bible in Plain English
“And I do not know what to write to Caesar about him, therefore I decided to bring him before you, and especially before you, King Agrippa, that when his case is examined, I may find what to write.”
NT Translations
Anderson New Testament
Concerning him I have nothing certain to write to my Lord. For this reason, I have brought him before you all, and especially before you, King Agrippa, that, after the examination has been held, I may have something to write.

Godbey New Testament
Concerning whom I have nothing definite to write to my lord; therefore I have led him to you, and especially to thee, O king Agrippa, in order that, there being an investigation, I may have something which I shall write;

Haweis New Testament
Respecting whom I have nothing determinate to write to my sovereign. Wherefore I have brought him forth before you, and especially before thee, king Agrippa, that on a fresh examination taken, I might have something to write.

Mace New Testament
as I have no certain account to communicate to the emperor my master, I caus'd him to appear before this assembly, and before you, king Agrippa, in particular, that after he is examin'd, I may know how to represent the affair;

Weymouth New Testament
I have nothing very definite, however, to tell our Sovereign about him. So I have brought the man before you all--and especially before you, King Agrippa--that after he has been examined I may find something which I can put into writing.

Worrell New Testament
concerning whom I have nothing certain to write to my lord. Wherefore, I brought him forth before you, and especially before you, King Agrippa, in order that, when the examination has taken place, I may have something to write;

Worsley New Testament
Concerning whom I have nothing certain to write to our sovereign: wherefore I have brought him out before you, and especially before thee, O king Agrippa, that after examination is made I may have somewhat to write.

Additional Translations ...
Audio Bible



Context
Paul Before Agrippa and Bernice
25But I found he had done nothing worthy of death, and since he has now appealed to the Emperor, I decided to send him. 26I have nothing definite to write to our sovereign one about him. Therefore I have brought him before all of you, and especially before you, King Agrippa, so that after this inquiry I may have something to write. 27For it seems unreasonable to me to send on a prisoner without specifying the charges against him.”…

Cross References
Acts 26:2-3
“King Agrippa, I consider myself fortunate to stand before you today to defend myself against all the accusations of the Jews, / especially since you are acquainted with all the Jewish customs and controversies. I beg you, therefore, to listen to me patiently.

Acts 23:26-30
Claudius Lysias, To His Excellency, Governor Felix: Greetings. / This man was seized by the Jews, and they were about to kill him when I came with my troops to rescue him. For I had learned that he is a Roman citizen, / and since I wanted to understand their charges against him, I brought him down to their Sanhedrin. ...

Acts 24:10
When the governor motioned for Paul to speak, he began his response: “Knowing that you have been a judge over this nation for many years, I gladly make my defense.

Acts 26:25-27
But Paul answered, “I am not insane, most excellent Festus; I am speaking words of truth and sobriety. / For the king knows about these matters, and I can speak freely to him. I am confident that none of this has escaped his notice, because it was not done in a corner. / King Agrippa, do you believe the prophets? I know you do.”

Acts 9:15
“Go!” said the Lord. “This man is My chosen instrument to carry My name before the Gentiles and their kings, and before the people of Israel.

Acts 22:15
You will be His witness to everyone of what you have seen and heard.

Acts 26:32
And Agrippa said to Festus, “This man could have been released if he had not appealed to Caesar.”

Acts 28:17-19
After three days, he called together the leaders of the Jews. When they had gathered, he said to them, “Brothers, although I have done nothing against our people or the customs of our fathers, I was taken prisoner in Jerusalem and handed over to the Romans. / They examined me and wanted to release me, because there was no basis for a death sentence against me. / But when the Jews objected, I was compelled to appeal to Caesar, even though I have no charge to bring against my nation.

Luke 23:4
Then Pilate said to the chief priests and the crowds, “I find no basis for a charge against this man.”

John 18:38
“What is truth?” Pilate asked. And having said this, he went out again to the Jews and told them, “I find no basis for a charge against Him.

John 19:4
Once again Pilate came out and said to the Jews, “Look, I am bringing Him out to you to let you know that I find no basis for a charge against Him.”

1 Peter 3:15
But in your hearts sanctify Christ as Lord. Always be prepared to give a defense to everyone who asks you the reason for the hope that is in you. But respond with gentleness and respect,

Proverbs 18:13
He who answers a matter before he hears it—this is folly and disgrace to him.

Proverbs 18:17
The first to state his case seems right until another comes and cross-examines him.

Proverbs 25:8-9
do not bring hastily to court. Otherwise, what will you do in the end when your neighbor puts you to shame? / Argue your case with your neighbor without betraying another’s confidence,


Treasury of Scripture

Of whom I have no certain thing to write to my lord. Why I have brought him forth before you, and specially before you, O king Agrippa, that, after examination had, I might have somewhat to write.

specially.

Acts 26:2,3
I think myself happy, king Agrippa, because I shall answer for myself this day before thee touching all the things whereof I am accused of the Jews: …

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Account Agrippa Caesar Definite Especially Examination Examined Find Forth However Investigation Majesty Result Something Somewhat Sovereign Specially Wherefore Write Writing
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Account Agrippa Caesar Definite Especially Examination Examined Find Forth However Investigation Majesty Result Something Somewhat Sovereign Specially Wherefore Write Writing
Acts 25
1. The Jews accuse Paul before Festus.
8. He answers for himself,
11. and appeals unto Caesar.
14. Afterwards Festus opens his matter to king Agrippa;
23. and he is brought forth.
25. Festus clears him of having done anything worthy of death.














I have nothing definite to write
This phrase reflects the uncertainty and lack of concrete evidence against Paul. The Greek word for "definite" is "asphales," meaning secure or certain. This highlights the Roman legal system's emphasis on evidence and the rule of law. Festus, the Roman governor, is in a predicament because he cannot send Paul to Caesar without a clear charge, underscoring the fairness expected in Roman judicial proceedings.

to our sovereign
The term "sovereign" refers to the Roman Emperor, who at this time was Nero. The Greek word "kyrios" is often used for "lord" or "master," indicating the emperor's supreme authority. This reflects the political structure of the Roman Empire, where the emperor was the ultimate authority in legal matters. Festus's need to report to Nero underscores the hierarchical nature of Roman governance.

about him
The pronoun "him" refers to Paul, who is central to this narrative. Paul's situation is unique because he is a Roman citizen and a Christian apostle, which places him at the intersection of Roman law and early Christian history. His trials are pivotal in the spread of Christianity, as they provide him opportunities to witness to influential leaders.

Therefore I have brought him before you all
Festus's decision to present Paul to the assembly, including King Agrippa, is strategic. The phrase "before you all" indicates a public hearing, which was a common practice in Roman legal proceedings to ensure transparency and fairness. This setting also provides Paul a platform to testify about his faith, fulfilling his mission to spread the Gospel.

and especially before you, King Agrippa
King Agrippa II, a Jewish monarch with Roman ties, is a significant figure. The phrase "especially before you" highlights Agrippa's expertise in Jewish customs and laws, which Festus lacks. Agrippa's presence is crucial because he can provide insight into the religious aspects of the accusations against Paul, bridging the cultural gap between Roman and Jewish perspectives.

so that after this examination
The term "examination" refers to the formal inquiry into Paul's case. The Greek word "anakrisis" implies a thorough investigation. This process is essential for Festus to gather sufficient information to report to the emperor. It also serves as a divine opportunity for Paul to articulate his defense and share the Gospel message.

I may have something to write
Festus's need to have "something to write" underscores the importance of a well-documented legal process. The Roman administration required detailed reports, especially in cases involving Roman citizens. This necessity for documentation ensures that Paul's case is handled with due diligence, reflecting the procedural integrity of Roman law.

(26) To write unto my lord.--The Greek corresponds to the title of "Dominus," which, though declined by Augustus and Tiberius (Sueton. Octav. c. 53; Tiber. c. 27), had been assumed by Caligula and Nero. The first of the emperors had rejected it as an "accursed and ill-omened title," and had not allowed it to be used even by his children or grand-children, either seriously or in play. The name "Augustus," with its religious associations, was enough for him.

Verse 26. - King for O king, A.V.; may for might, A.V. My lord (τῷ κυτίῳ). Suetonius tells us ('Life of Augustus,' 53) that Augustus abhorred the title of "lord," and looked upon it as a curse and an insult when applied to himself. Tiberius also ('Life of Tiberius,' 27), being once called "lord" (dominus) by some one, indignantly repudiated the title. But it was frequently applied to Trajan by Pithy, and the later emperors seem to have accepted it. It was likely to grow up first in the East. Examination; ἀνακρίσεως, here only in the New Testament; but it is found in 3Macc. 7:4 in the same sense as here, viz. of a judicial examination (the complaint being that Jews were put to death ἄνευ πάσης ἀνακρίσεως καὶ ἐξετάσεως); specially the precious examination of the prisoner made for the information of the judge who was to try the case. At Athens the ἀνάκρισις was a preliminary examination held to decide whether an action at law should be allowed. The verb ἀνακρίνω, to examine, occurs six times in the Gospel of St. Luke and the Acts (Luke 23:14; Acts 4:9; Acts 12:19, etc.), and ten times in St. Paul's Epistles (see also Hist. of Susanna 48).

Parallel Commentaries ...


Greek
I have
ἔχω (echō)
Verb - Present Indicative Active - 1st Person Singular
Strong's 2192: To have, hold, possess. Including an alternate form scheo skheh'-o; a primary verb; to hold.

nothing
οὐκ (ouk)
Adverb
Strong's 3756: No, not. Also ouk, and ouch a primary word; the absolute negative adverb; no or not.

definite
ἀσφαλές (asphales)
Adjective - Accusative Neuter Singular
Strong's 804: (lit: unfailing), safe, reliable, trustworthy, certain, sure. Secure.

to write
γράψαι (grapsai)
Verb - Aorist Infinitive Active
Strong's 1125: A primary verb; to 'grave', especially to write; figuratively, to describe.

to
τῷ (tō)
Article - Dative Masculine Singular
Strong's 3588: The, the definite article. Including the feminine he, and the neuter to in all their inflections; the definite article; the.

[our] sovereign one
κυρίῳ (kyriō)
Noun - Dative Masculine Singular
Strong's 2962: Lord, master, sir; the Lord. From kuros; supreme in authority, i.e. controller; by implication, Master.

about
περὶ (peri)
Preposition
Strong's 4012: From the base of peran; properly, through, i.e. Around; figuratively with respect to; used in various applications, of place, cause or time.

[him].
οὗ (hou)
Personal / Relative Pronoun - Genitive Masculine Singular
Strong's 3739: Who, which, what, that.

Therefore
διὸ (dio)
Conjunction
Strong's 1352: Wherefore, on which account, therefore. From dia and hos; through which thing, i.e. Consequently.

I have brought
προήγαγον (proēgagon)
Verb - Aorist Indicative Active - 1st Person Singular
Strong's 4254: From pro and ago; to lead forward; intransitively, to precede (participle, previous).

him
αὐτὸν (auton)
Personal / Possessive Pronoun - Accusative Masculine 3rd Person Singular
Strong's 846: He, she, it, they, them, same. From the particle au; the reflexive pronoun self, used of the third person, and of the other persons.

before
ἐφ’ (eph’)
Preposition
Strong's 1909: On, to, against, on the basis of, at.

all of you,
ὑμῶν (hymōn)
Personal / Possessive Pronoun - Genitive 2nd Person Plural
Strong's 4771: You. The person pronoun of the second person singular; thou.

and
καὶ (kai)
Conjunction
Strong's 2532: And, even, also, namely.

especially
μάλιστα (malista)
Adverb
Strong's 3122: Most of all, especially. Neuter plural of the superlative of an apparently primary adverb mala; most or particularly.

before
ἐπὶ (epi)
Preposition
Strong's 1909: On, to, against, on the basis of, at.

you,
σοῦ (sou)
Personal / Possessive Pronoun - Genitive 2nd Person Singular
Strong's 4771: You. The person pronoun of the second person singular; thou.

King
βασιλεῦ (basileu)
Noun - Vocative Masculine Singular
Strong's 935: A king, ruler, but in some passages clearly to be translated: emperor. Probably from basis; a sovereign.

Agrippa,
Ἀγρίππα (Agrippa)
Noun - Vocative Masculine Singular
Strong's 67: Agrippa, i.e. Herod Agrippa II. Apparently from agrios and hippos; wild-horse tamer; Agrippas, one of the Herods.

so that
ὅπως (hopōs)
Conjunction
Strong's 3704: From hos and pos; what(-ever) how, i.e. In the manner that (as adverb or conjunction of coincidence, intentional or actual).

after this inquiry
ἀνακρίσεως (anakriseōs)
Noun - Genitive Feminine Singular
Strong's 351: Judicial examination, preliminary inquiry. From anakrino; a investigation.

I may have
σχῶ (schō)
Verb - Aorist Subjunctive Active - 1st Person Singular
Strong's 2192: To have, hold, possess. Including an alternate form scheo skheh'-o; a primary verb; to hold.

something
τί (ti)
Interrogative / Indefinite Pronoun - Accusative Neuter Singular
Strong's 5101: Who, which, what, why. Probably emphatic of tis; an interrogative pronoun, who, which or what.

to write.
γράψω (grapsō)
Verb - Aorist Subjunctive Active - 1st Person Singular
Strong's 1125: A primary verb; to 'grave', especially to write; figuratively, to describe.


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NT Apostles: Acts 25:26 Of whom I have no certain thing (Acts of the Apostles Ac)
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