### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **diamáchomai**, represented by `{{G1264}}`, is defined as to **fight fiercely** in an altercation or to **strive**. It appears only **1 time** in **1 unique verse** in the Bible. This term captures a specific, intense form of conflict, highlighting a passionate and contentious dispute.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The single biblical occurrence of `{{G1264}}` is in the book of Acts. After a great **cry** `{{G2906}}` erupted, a group of **scribes** `{{G1122}}` from the **Pharisees**' `{{G5330}}` party **arose** `{{G450}}` and **strove** `{{G1264}}` fiercely. Their contention was a defense of the apostle Paul, as they declared they found no evil in him and considered the possibility that a spirit or angel had spoken to him [[Acts 23:9]]. The use of the word here illustrates a sharp, public division among religious authorities.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words found in its immediate context help clarify the nature of this fierce altercation:
* `{{G2906}}` **kraugḗ** (cry): This word describes an **outcry** of tumult or grief. It is used in [[Acts 23:9]] to describe the "great **cry**" that erupted just before the scribes began to **strive**.
* `{{G1122}}` **grammateús** (scribe): This refers to a writer or secretary. The **scribes** are identified as the ones engaging in the fierce argument, often appearing in contexts of religious debate and opposition [[Matthew 23:13]].
* `{{G2313}}` **theomachéō** (fight against God): This term means to **resist deity**. In the same breath that they **strive** `{{G1264}}` with their opponents, the scribes warn not to **fight against God** `{{G2313}}`, creating a stark contrast between human conflict and divine will [[Acts 23:9]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G1264}}`, though based on a single verse, is significant in its context.
* **Doctrinal Contention:** The word illustrates the intensity of disputes over spiritual matters. The fierce strife was not over a trivial issue but over the possibility of a divine revelation to Paul [[Acts 23:9]].
* **Human Strife vs. Divine Sovereignty:** The scene presents a powerful juxtaposition. While men **strive** `{{G1264}}` fiercely among themselves, the ultimate concern voiced is to avoid fighting against God `{{G2313}}`, highlighting a recognition of a higher authority even in the midst of internal conflict.
* **Division Within Religious Leadership:** The use of `{{G1264}}` underscores the deep fractures within the Jewish leadership of the time, where a debate could quickly escalate into a fierce altercation.
### Summary
In summary, `{{G1264}}` is a highly specific term for a fierce and contentious struggle. Its lone appearance in scripture powerfully captures a moment of intense division, where scribes **strove** passionately in a high-stakes theological debate [[Acts 23:9]]. The word serves as a vivid depiction of how doctrinal disputes can lead to fervent conflict, while simultaneously pointing to the greater concern of aligning with God's will rather than resisting it.
TRV