### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **éa**, represented by `{{G1436}}`, is an interjection functioning as an imperative command, meaning "**let alone**." It is a rare term, appearing only **2 times** in **2 unique verses** in the Bible. In both instances, it is used as a cry of alarm or a desperate plea to be left undisturbed.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The two occurrences of `{{G1436}}` are found in nearly identical accounts in the Gospels. In both [[Mark 1:24]] and [[Luke 4:34]], an unclean spirit, speaking through a man, confronts Jesus in a synagogue. The spirit cries out "**Let us alone**," immediately questioning what business it has with "Jesus of Nazareth" and whether He has come to destroy them. This usage frames the word as a reaction of fear and recognition in the face of divine authority.
### Related Words & Concepts
The context of `{{G1436}}` is further illuminated by two key words used in the same passages:
* `{{G622}}` **apóllymi** (to destroy fully): This word is used in the spirit's fearful question, "art thou come to **destroy** us?" [[Mark 1:24]], [[Luke 4:34]]. It highlights the perceived threat that Jesus's presence poses to demonic powers.
* `{{G1492}}` **eídō** (to see; to know): Immediately after its plea, the spirit declares, "I **know** thee who thou art, the Holy One of God" [[Mark 1:24]], [[Luke 4:34]]. This demonstrates that the cry to be left alone stems from a clear recognition of Jesus's divine identity.
### Theological Significance
While a simple interjection, the theological weight of `{{G1436}}` comes from its dramatic context.
* **Confronting Divine Authority:** The cry "**Let us alone**" marks a direct confrontation between the demonic realm and the person of Jesus. It is a plea from an entity that recognizes it is in the presence of a superior and holy power [[Mark 1:24]].
* **Recognition of Identity:** The exclamation is immediately followed by a confession of Jesus's identity: "I **know** thee who thou art, the Holy One of God" [[Luke 4:34]]. This demonstrates that even unclean spirits understood Jesus's divine nature and authority, using the word for "know" `{{G1492}}`.
* **The Inevitability of Judgment:** The spirit's question about being destroyed `{{G622}}` reveals an awareness of its ultimate fate. The presence of Jesus signals the coming judgment on evil, a mission that includes saving that which was "lost" [[Luke 19:10]] and bringing life in contrast to the thief who comes to "destroy" [[John 10:10]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G1436}}` is more than just a command to "**let alone**." It is a rare but powerful word that captures a moment of intense spiritual conflict. Spoken only by a demonic entity, it serves as a fearful acknowledgment of Jesus Christ's absolute authority and divine identity. The use of this word, set between a recognition of identity `{{G1492}}` and a fear of destruction `{{G622}}`, encapsulates the reaction of darkness when confronted by the "Holy One of God" [[Mark 1:24]].
TRV