### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **brýchō**, represented by `{{G1031}}`, is a primary verb that means to **gnash** or grate the teeth. According to usage statistics, it appears only **1 time** in **1 unique verse** in the Bible. The definition specifies this action as a response to pain or rage.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The single biblical occurrence of `{{G1031}}` is in [[Acts 7:54]]. This verse captures the intense and hostile reaction to Stephen's sermon. After the audience **heard** `{{G191}}` "these things" `{{G5023}}`, the scripture states they "were **cut** `{{G1282}}` to the **heart** `{{G2588}}`... **and** `{{G2532}}` they **gnashed** `{{G1031}}` on him with their **teeth** `{{G3599}}`." The action serves as a physical manifestation of their inner fury and conviction.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several words found within its immediate context help clarify the meaning of `{{G1031}}`:
* `{{G1282}}` **diapríō** (cut (to the heart)): Defined as to "saw asunder" or figuratively "to exasperate," this describes the internal state of severe emotional agitation that precedes the gnashing of teeth [[Acts 7:54]].
* `{{G2588}}` **kardía** (heart): The location of the emotional turmoil. It represents the "thoughts or feelings (mind)" which were "cut" by Stephen's message [[Acts 7:54]].
* `{{G3599}}` **odoús** (tooth): The physical instrument used to perform the action of gnashing. The verse explicitly connects the rage to the physical act involving their **teeth** [[Acts 7:54]].
* `{{G191}}` **akoúō** (to hear): This is the catalyst for the entire event. The intense reaction of being cut to the heart and gnashing teeth was triggered when they **heard** the message [[Acts 7:54]].
### Theological Significance
The thematic weight of `{{G1031}}` is concentrated in its single appearance, highlighting a powerful reaction against divine truth.
* **A Sign of Rage:** The act of gnashing teeth is a raw, physical expression of uncontrollable rage and hostility directed at a messenger of God.
* **Rejection of Conviction:** The response in [[Acts 7:54]] is critical. Upon hearing the truth, the people are "cut to the heart," a moment of deep conviction. Instead of leading to repentance, this conviction curdles into rage, expressed through `{{G1031}}`.
* **Precursor to Violence:** This display of rage is not the end of the action but the boiling point immediately preceding the violent act of stoning Stephen.
### Summary
In summary, `{{G1031}}` is a potent verb that, while rare, provides a stark image of defiant rage. It is not simply about being angry; it specifically illustrates a hostile response to a spiritual truth that convicts the heart. Its singular use in [[Acts 7:54]] powerfully connects an internal, emotional state of being "cut" with an external, violent expression of gnashing teeth.
TRV