### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **theatrízō**, represented by `{{G2301}}`, means **to expose as a spectacle** or to **make a gazing stock**. It appears only **1 time** across **1 unique verse** in the Bible, indicating a highly specific application of the term to describe public humiliation and suffering.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In its single biblical usage, `{{G2301}}` is found in the context of intense persecution faced by believers. The author of Hebrews describes a situation where Christians were made a **gazingstock** `{{G2301}}` through both "reproaches" and "afflictions" [[Hebrews 10:33]]. This verse portrays a scenario of public shaming, where believers' suffering was put on display for all to see, turning their trials into a public event.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words in its sole context illuminate the meaning of being made a **gazingstock**:
* `{{G3680}}` **oneidismós** (reproach): This term, meaning "contumely," is used alongside `{{G2301}}` to define the verbal and shameful nature of the public exposure. It is the same kind of reproach believers are called to bear for Christ [[Hebrews 13:13]].
* `{{G2347}}` **thlîpsis** (affliction): Defined as "pressure" or "tribulation," this word describes the hardships and troubles that accompanied the public reproach. Believers are encouraged to be patient in such tribulation [[Romans 12:12]].
* `{{G2844}}` **koinōnós** (companion): Meaning a "sharer" or "partner," this word shows that the experience was communal. Believers were not only made a spectacle but also willingly became **companions** with others suffering in the same way [[Hebrews 10:33]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G2301}}` is found in its vivid portrayal of the cost of faith.
* **Public Persecution:** The word's core meaning of being a spectacle highlights that persecution was often a public affair, meant to shame and deter believers [[Hebrews 10:33]].
* **Fellowship in Suffering:** Being made a **gazingstock** was directly linked to becoming "companions" `{{G2844}}` with other sufferers. This transforms shame into an act of solidarity and shared identity within the church [[Hebrews 10:33]].
* **Identification with Christ:** The "reproaches" `{{G3680}}` faced by those made a **gazingstock** are elsewhere described as the "reproach of Christ," connecting the believers' public humiliation to the path of suffering established by Christ himself [[Hebrews 11:26]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G2301}}` **theatrízō** is a rare but potent term. It encapsulates the experience of being publicly shamed and exposed for one's faith. Rather than being an isolated event, it is framed within a context of communal suffering through affliction `{{G2347}}`, reproach `{{G3680}}`, and fellowship `{{G2844}}`, ultimately tying the believer's trial to the suffering of Christ.
TRV