### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **ἐχθρός (echthrós)**, represented by `{{G2190}}`, is an adjective derived from a primary verb meaning "to hate." It defines someone or something as hateful, odious, or hostile. It appears **32 times** in **32 unique verses** and is typically used as a noun to refer to an adversary, foe, or, most notably, Satan.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In scripture, `{{G2190}}` is used to describe several types of opposition. It refers to personal adversaries, whom believers are commanded to love and pray for [[Matthew 5:44]], a sharp contrast to the prior understanding to "hate thine enemy" [[Matthew 5:43]]. The term also defines humanity's state of spiritual separation from God before salvation; Paul writes that "when we were enemies, we were reconciled to God by the death of his Son" [[Romans 5:10]]. Furthermore, `{{G2190}}` is used to identify the ultimate spiritual adversary, as in the parable where "the enemy that sowed them is the devil" [[Matthew 13:39]]. Finally, it describes all powers that oppose Christ, which will ultimately be made His footstool [[Matthew 22:44]], with death being the last enemy to be destroyed [[1 Corinthians 15:26]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the concept of being an enemy:
* `{{G2189}}` **échthra** (enmity, hatred): As the feminine form of `{{G2190}}`, this word denotes the state of hostility itself. It is used to explain that friendship with the world is **enmity** with God, which in turn makes a person an **enemy** of God [[James 4:4]].
* `{{G1228}}` **diábolos** (devil): This term identifies the primary spiritual enemy. In the parable of the tares, the one identified as the **enemy** `{{G2190}}` is explicitly named as the **devil** [[Matthew 13:39]].
* `{{G3404}}` **miséō** (to detest, hate): This verb describes the action or feeling that characterizes an enemy. Jesus's command to love your **enemies** `{{G2190}}` is set in direct opposition to the impulse to **hate** them [[Matthew 5:43-44]].
* `{{G604}}` **apokatallássō** (to reconcile fully): This word represents the divine solution to the state of being an enemy. Scripture explains that those who were once **enemies** `{{G2190}}` have now been **reconciled** by Christ [[Colossians 1:21]].
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of `{{G2190}}` is profound, framing the core conflict and resolution in the biblical narrative.
* **Humanity's Natural State:** The term establishes that, apart from Christ, humanity is in a state of hostility toward God. We were once "alienated and **enemies** in your mind by wicked works" [[Colossians 1:21]] and could only be saved through reconciliation [[Romans 5:10]].
* **Identification of Spiritual Foes:** `{{G2190}}` gives a name to the forces opposing God's kingdom. The **devil** is the primary enemy [[Matthew 13:39]], and those who oppose the gospel are called "the **enemies** of the cross of Christ" [[Philippians 3:18]].
* **Christ's Ultimate Triumph:** The concept of an enemy is central to the promise of Christ's final victory. Scripture repeatedly affirms that Christ must reign until all **enemies** are put under his feet [[1 Corinthians 15:25]], culminating in the destruction of the last **enemy**, which is death [[1 Corinthians 15:26]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G2190}}` is a crucial term that moves from personal conflict to cosmic spiritual warfare. It defines the alienated state of humanity, identifies the devil as the principal adversary, and frames the believer's radical call to love. Ultimately, the concept of the "enemy" serves to highlight the magnitude of Christ's victory, as he reconciles former foes to God and is destined to put all opposition, including death itself, under his feet.
TRV