The Greek word empnéō, represented by G1709, is defined as to inhale or, figuratively, to be animated by or bent upon something. It appears only 1 time in 1 unique verse, making its single usage in scripture particularly significant. The term conveys being so consumed by an impulse that it is likened to the very act of breathing.
The sole biblical appearance of G1709 is in the narrative of Saul's persecution of the early church. The text states, "And Saul, yet breathing out threatenings and slaughter against the disciples of the Lord, went unto the high priest" Acts 9:1. Here, the word is not used literally but figuratively to illustrate the depth of Saul's animosity. He is so utterly driven by his mission of persecution that his very breath is described as being composed of threats G547 and murder G5408.
Several related words in this context illuminate the intensity of Saul's state:
- G547 apeilḗ (threatening): This word means a menace. It is one of the things Saul is described as "breathing out," signifying the verbal intimidation he directed at the church Acts 9:1.
- G5408 phónos (slaughter): This term for murder is paired with "threatenings," showing that Saul's animosity was not limited to words but extended to lethal violence Acts 9:1.
- G4569 Saûlos (Saul): This is the Jewish name of the man who would become the apostle Paul. His identity in this passage is defined by this single-minded persecution of the disciples of the Lord Acts 9:1.
The theological weight of G1709 is concentrated in its single, powerful use.
- Figurative Animation: The word demonstrates how a person's inner state can completely animate their actions. For Saul G4569, his life force was figuratively powered by a desire for "slaughter" G5408 against believers Acts 9:1.
- The Intensity of Persecution: The use of G1709 highlights the extreme nature of the opposition faced by the first "disciples G3101 of the Lord G2962." Their persecution was not passive but an active, breathing force of violence.
- The State Before Grace: This word captures Saul's character at the very moment before his encounter with Christ. "Breathing out" G1709 threats G547 stands as a stark depiction of a life in opposition to God, making his subsequent conversion all the more dramatic Acts 9:1.
In summary, G1709 is a rare but potent term. Its single appearance in scripture is used to paint a vivid picture of a person entirely consumed by a destructive mission. It memorably describes Saul's internal state of murderous rage against the church Acts 9:1, establishing a dramatic baseline of opposition from which his conversion would spring. The word illustrates how a spiritual or emotional state can be so overwhelming as to be compared to the fundamental act of breathing.
TRV