### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **échthra**, represented by `{{G2189}}`, defines a state of **hostility** or **enmity**. It appears **6 times** across **6 unique verses** in the Bible. This term signifies not just personal dislike but a fundamental opposition or a reason for it, particularly describing the division between humanity and God, as well as between people.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In scripture, `{{G2189}}` is used to illustrate several critical states of opposition. It defines the natural disposition of the unregenerate mind, with the "carnal mind" being **enmity** against God [[Romans 8:7]]. The term is also used to frame spiritual allegiance, stating that friendship with the world is **enmity** with God [[James 4:4]]. It is listed as "hatred" among the works of the flesh in [[Galatians 5:20]]. Before their reconciliation, Pilate and Herod were at **enmity** with each other [[Luke 23:12]]. The ultimate resolution to this state is found in Christ, who abolished the **enmity** in His flesh [[Ephesians 2:15]] and slew it by the cross to reconcile humanity to God [[Ephesians 2:16]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words clarify the concept of hostility and its resolution:
* `{{G2190}}` **echthrós** (enemy, foe): As the masculine form of `{{G2189}}`, this word denotes the person or party in a state of hostility. For instance, being a friend of the world makes one an **enemy** of God [[James 4:4]].
* `{{G4561}}` **sárx** (flesh): This term for human nature with its frailties is the source of the enmity. The carnal, or fleshly, mind is **enmity** against God [[Romans 8:7]], and it was in His **flesh** that Christ abolished this state of opposition [[Ephesians 2:15]].
* `{{G604}}` **apokatallássō** (to reconcile fully): This word presents the divine solution to enmity. Through the cross, Christ's purpose was to **reconcile** humanity to God, having slain the **enmity** [[Ephesians 2:16]].
* `{{G5373}}` **philía** (friendship): This term for fondness stands in direct contrast to `{{G2189}}`. The choice presented in scripture is stark: the **friendship** of the world is **enmity** with God [[James 4:4]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G2189}}` is significant in understanding sin and salvation.
* **A State of Natural Opposition:** The term establishes that the "carnal mind" is not merely neutral but is in an active state of **enmity** toward God, unable to submit to His law [[Romans 8:7]].
* **The Conflict of Allegiance:** Scripture uses `{{G2189}}` to describe the absolute incompatibility between loving the world and loving God. Choosing friendship with the world system automatically places a person in **enmity** with God [[James 4:4]].
* **Abolished by the Cross:** The enmity that separated humanity from God and divided people from each other was decisively dealt with by Christ. It was "slain" and "abolished" through His sacrifice, making **peace** `{{G1515}}` and reconciliation possible [[Ephesians 2:15-16]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G2189}}` is more than simple hatred; it is a foundational biblical concept for a state of deep-seated hostility and opposition. It characterizes the inherent conflict between the fleshly human nature and God, the division created by worldly allegiances, and the interpersonal strife between people. Ultimately, the concept of **enmity** serves to magnify the power of the cross, which is presented as the only means by which this profound hostility is slain and full reconciliation with God is achieved.
TRV