### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **théatron**, represented by `{{G2302}}`, refers to a **place for public show ("theatre")** or, by implication, a **show itself (figuratively)**. It appears **3 times** across **3 unique verses** in the Bible. The term is used both literally to describe an actual amphitheater and metaphorically as a **spectacle**.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In its literal usage, `{{G2302}}` designates the physical **theatre** in Ephesus. During a riot, a mob filled the city with **confusion** `{{G4799}}` and rushed into the **theatre** with two of Paul's companions [[Acts 19:29]]. Paul was later warned by his friends not to "adventure himself into the **theatre**" [[Acts 19:31]]. Figuratively, Paul employs the term to describe the public nature of the apostles' suffering, stating that God has made them a **spectacle** to be watched by the world, angels, and men [[1 Corinthians 4:9]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the context in which `{{G2302}}` is used:
* `{{G1096}}` **gínomai** (to cause to be... to become): This verb emphasizes a transformation or appointment. Paul uses it to say "we are **made** a spectacle," indicating that their public display is not by chance but by divine action [[1 Corinthians 4:9]].
* `{{G2889}}` **kósmos** (orderly arrangement... the world): This term defines the audience for the apostles' suffering. They are a spectacle unto the **world**, establishing the grand scale of their testimony [[1 Corinthians 4:9]].
* `{{G4799}}` **sýnchysis** (commixture... riotous disturbance): This word describes the atmosphere surrounding the literal theater in Ephesus, which was filled with **confusion** during the uprising [[Acts 19:29]].
* `{{G584}}` **apodeíknymi** (to show off... exhibit): This verb describes God's action of putting the apostles on display, as He "hath **set forth** us the apostles last," as if presenting them in a public show [[1 Corinthians 4:9]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G2302}}` is evident in its specific applications.
* **Public Witness Through Suffering:** The term transforms the apostles' hardships into a form of public testimony. They are made a **spectacle** `{{G2302}}`, deliberately **set forth** `{{G584}}` by God for all to see [[1 Corinthians 4:9]].
* **A Display for All Realms:** The audience for this **spectacle** is universal, including not only the **world** `{{G2889}}` and **men** `{{G444}}` but also **angels** `{{G32}}`. This highlights that the trials of the faithful are observed by both the earthly and heavenly realms [[1 Corinthians 4:9]].
* **Contrast Between Worldly and Divine Stages:** The literal **theatre** is depicted as a place of secular chaos and mob violence [[Acts 19:29]], while the figurative **spectacle** is a stage for divine purpose and endurance.
### Summary
In summary, `{{G2302}}` is a potent term that carries a dual meaning. As a literal **theatre**, it represents a center of civil unrest and public gathering. As a figurative **spectacle**, it portrays the life of the apostles as a divinely-ordained display of suffering and faith for a universal audience. Its limited use in Scripture is nonetheless impactful, illustrating how Christian witness unfolds on a public stage before both man and God.
TRV