### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **thḗkē**, represented by `{{G2336}}`, is defined as a **receptacle** or **scabbard**, and is translated as **sheath**. Based on its root, it denotes a place to put something. It appears only **1 time** across **1 unique verse** in the Bible, making its sole usage highly specific and contextually significant.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The single occurrence of `{{G2336}}` is found in a direct command from `{{G2424}}` **Jesus** to `{{G4074}}` **Peter**. After Peter used his sword, Jesus `{{G2036}}` said, "Put up thy sword into the **sheath**" [[John 18:11]]. This instruction is not given in isolation; it is immediately justified by Jesus's rhetorical question regarding his own fate: "the cup which my Father hath given me, shall I not drink it?". The use of the word **sheath** marks a pivotal moment where physical action is halted in favor of fulfilling a divine purpose.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words from its only context help illuminate its meaning:
* `{{G3162}}` **máchaira**: This word for **sword** is the object that must be placed into the `{{G2336}}` **sheath**. It can refer to a knife or, figuratively, to war and judicial punishment ([[John 18:11]], [[Hebrews 4:12]]).
* `{{G906}}` **bállō**: This is the verb for the action commanded by Jesus, meaning to **throw** or **put**. In the verse, it is translated as "Put up," signifying the act of placing the sword into the sheath [[John 18:11]].
* `{{G4221}}` **potḗrion**: Meaning **cup**, this word is used figuratively to represent a person's lot or fate. Jesus references the **cup** the Father has given him as the reason why the sword must be put away [[John 18:11]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G2336}}` is derived entirely from its singular, powerful context.
* **Submission to Divine Will:** The command to use the **sheath** is a direct order to cease a human, violent response. It is immediately contrasted with the necessity of drinking the `{{G4221}}` **cup** given `{{G1325}}` by the `{{G3962}}` **Father**, emphasizing submission to God's plan over human intervention [[John 18:11]].
* **Contrast of Kingdoms:** The act of sheathing the `{{G3162}}` **sword** represents a core teaching of Jesus. It demonstrates that His kingdom is not advanced by physical weapons or force, a concept echoed in His statement that He did not come to send peace, but a **sword** of division [[Matthew 10:34]].
* **Acceptance of Suffering:** By telling Peter to put the sword away, Jesus confirms His own resolution to accept the suffering appointed to Him by the Father, framing it as a **cup** that He must `{{G4095}}` **drink**.
### Summary
In summary, **thḗkē** is a simple word for a **receptacle**, but its lone appearance in Scripture is profound. It signifies the container for a physical weapon, and in the context of [[John 18:11]], it marks the boundary between human reaction and divine submission. The command to put the sword into its **sheath** is a command to set aside worldly power and trust in the Father's sovereign plan, even when it leads to the cross.
TRV