### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **thermaínō**, represented by `{{G2328}}`, means **to heat (oneself)**. It appears **6 times** across **5 unique verses** in the Bible. Its primary use is literal, describing the act of getting warm, typically from a source of heat like a fire.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{G2328}}` is used in two main contexts. The most frequent use is literal, describing Peter **warming himself** by a fire in the high priest's palace on the night of Jesus's trial [[Mark 14:54]]. This action is mentioned multiple times, highlighting his presence among the servants and officers as events unfolded ([[John 18:18]], [[John 18:25]], [[Mark 14:67]]). In a different context, the word is used metaphorically in James to critique empty words. Wishing someone to "**be ye warmed** and filled" is meaningless without the action of providing for their physical needs [[James 2:16]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words provide context for the concept of being warmed.
* `{{G439}}` **anthrakiá** (a bed of burning coals): This is the specific source of heat by which Peter **warmed himself** [[John 18:18]].
* `{{G5457}}` **phōs** (luminousness... fire, light): This word is used for the **fire** Peter was near in Mark's account [[Mark 14:54]], but it also carries a broad theological meaning of divine light in contrast to darkness ([[John 8:12]], [[James 1:17]]).
* `{{G5526}}` **chortázō** (to fodder... feed, fill, satisfy): This word is paired directly with **thermaínō** in [[James 2:16]], where faith without works is like telling someone to "be ye warmed and **filled**" without providing for them.
* `{{G5592}}` **psýchos** (coolness... cold): This word provides the direct reason for seeking warmth, as the servants and Peter made a fire because it was **cold** [[John 18:18]].
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of `{{G2328}}` is derived from its contextual usage.
* **Physical Comfort vs. Spiritual Crisis:** Peter’s repeated action of **warming himself** by the fire ([[John 18:18]], [[Mark 14:54]]) occurs during a moment of intense spiritual trial. His focus on physical warmth stands in stark contrast to his impending denial of Jesus, highlighting a choice of temporary, worldly comfort over faithful allegiance.
* **Illustration of True Faith:** In James, the phrase "be ye **warmed** and filled" is presented as the epitome of hollow faith [[James 2:16]]. The word illustrates the theological principle that genuine belief must be accompanied by tangible actions that meet the real needs of others. Offering empty words of comfort is profitless.
### Summary
In summary, `{{G2328}}` **thermaínō** is a straightforward word for the physical act of warming oneself. While most of its occurrences are literal, describing Peter seeking warmth from a fire during Jesus's trial ([[John 18:18]], [[Mark 14:54]]), its narrative and theological importance is significant. It serves as the backdrop for Peter's denial and is used by James as a powerful metaphor for faith that is void of action [[James 2:16]]. This demonstrates how a simple description of a physical state can be used to illustrate profound spiritual conditions and moral responsibilities.
TRV