### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
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.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
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}}`.
### Related Words & Concepts
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]].
### Theological Significance
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]].
### Summary
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