### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **hēsychía**, represented by `{{G2271}}`, denotes **stillness** or **quietness**. It appears 4 times across 4 unique verses. The term's base definition describes a desistance from bustle or language, encompassing both silence and a tranquil state.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In its biblical usage, `{{G2271}}` is applied in contexts of both personal conduct and public order. Paul instructs that a woman is to learn in **silence** with all subjection [[1 Timothy 2:11]] and contrasts this state with usurping authority [[1 Timothy 2:12]]. In his letter to the Thessalonians, he commands and exhorts that certain individuals should **work** with **quietness** [[2 Thessalonians 3:12]], connecting a peaceful demeanor to productive labor. The term is also used to describe a crowd's reaction; when they heard Paul speak in the Hebrew tongue, they "kept the more **silence**" [[Acts 22:2]], showing a quiet respect that allowed him to speak.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help define the contexts in which `{{G2271}}` is found:
* `{{G3129}}` **manthánō** (to learn): This verb is directly paired with `{{G2271}}` to describe the posture of a student, who is to **learn** in silence [[1 Timothy 2:11]].
* `{{G5292}}` **hypotagḗ** (subordination): This noun further qualifies the "silence" in 1 Timothy, linking it to an attitude of **subjection** [[1 Timothy 2:11]].
* `{{G2038}}` **ergázomai** (to toil, work): This action is to be performed with **quietness**, indicating a lifestyle of peaceful productivity rather than idleness [[2 Thessalonians 3:12]].
* `{{G3853}}` **parangéllō** (to transmit a message, i.e. (by implication) to enjoin): This word for "command" is used to issue the instruction to work in quietness, giving the concept authoritative weight [[2 Thessalonians 3:12]].
* `{{G831}}` **authentéō** (to act of oneself, i.e. (figuratively) dominate): This term is explicitly contrasted with being in **silence**, establishing it as an action that is not permitted [[1 Timothy 2:12]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G2271}}` centers on principles of order, receptivity, and proper conduct.
* **A Posture for Learning:** **Silence** is presented as a necessary condition for learning, coupled with an attitude of **subjection** [[1 Timothy 2:11]]. This suggests a humility required to receive teaching.
* **Peaceful and Productive Life:** The command to **work** with **quietness** [[2 Thessalonians 3:12]] frames tranquility not as passivity, but as a component of a diligent and orderly Christian life.
* **Deference to Authority:** Being in **silence** is set in opposition to usurping authority [[1 Timothy 2:12]]. This shows that `{{G2271}}` is part of a broader scriptural theme of respecting established roles and order.
### Summary
In summary, `{{G2271}}` conveys a meaning beyond the mere absence of noise. It is a word that signifies an intentional state of **stillness** and order. It is used to describe a respectful audience [[Acts 22:2]], a submissive posture for learning [[1 Timothy 2:11]], and the peaceful demeanor of a productive life [[2 Thessalonians 3:12]]. As a concept, **hēsychía** represents a tranquil spirit that enables both learning and labor in a manner that aligns with scriptural commands.
TRV