### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **thlíbō**, represented by `{{G2346}}`, is used to describe crowding or pressure, both literally and figuratively. Its meanings include to **afflict**, **narrow**, **throng**, **suffer tribulation**, and **trouble**. It appears **10 times** across **10 unique verses**, indicating a specific and focused application in scripture.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In its biblical usage, `{{G2346}}` is applied in both literal and figurative ways. Literally, it describes physical crowding, as when Jesus's disciples were instructed to keep a small ship ready for him "lest they should **throng** him" [[Mark 3:9]]. Figuratively, it conveys a sense of being under pressure or **troubled** on every side ([[2 Corinthians 4:8]], [[2 Corinthians 7:5]]). The word is also used metaphorically to describe the path to life as **narrow** [[Matthew 7:14]]. It is often associated with the experience of believers, who are described as **afflicted** [[Hebrews 11:37]] and expecting to **suffer tribulation** [[1 Thessalonians 3:4]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words clarify the meaning and context of being afflicted or troubled:
* `{{G2347}}` **thlîpsis** (pressure): As the noun form derived from `{{G2346}}`, it specifically refers to the state of **tribulation** or **affliction** itself. It is the pressure that believers are called to be patient in [[Romans 12:12]], and it is what God recompenses to those who **trouble** his people [[2 Thessalonians 1:6]].
* `{{G425}}` **ánesis** (relaxation or relief): This word is often used as a direct contrast to `{{G2346}}`. Paul speaks of having "no **rest**" while being **troubled** on every side [[2 Corinthians 7:5]], and promises **rest** to those who are currently **troubled** [[2 Thessalonians 1:7]].
* `{{G5281}}` **hypomonḗ** (cheerful endurance, constancy): This is the virtuous response to the pressure described by `{{G2346}}` and its related noun `{{G2347}}`. Being **afflicted** is for the purpose of salvation, which is effectual in the **enduring** of sufferings [[2 Corinthians 1:6]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G2346}}` is significant, framing affliction as a key aspect of the believer's journey.
* **The Inevitability of Hardship:** Scripture presents tribulation not as a possibility, but as a certainty for the faithful. Believers are told in advance that they should **suffer tribulation** [[1 Thessalonians 3:4]], and being **afflicted** is listed among the trials endured by heroes of the faith [[Hebrews 11:37]].
* **Purposeful Suffering:** The pressure described by `{{G2346}}` is not without purpose. It is linked to the **consolation** and **salvation** of others, and is effectual through the **enduring** of sufferings [[2 Corinthians 1:6]]. This frames hardship within God's redemptive plan.
* **External Pressure vs. Internal State:** A crucial distinction is made between being **troubled** externally and being crushed internally. Believers may be **troubled** on every side, yet not distressed, and perplexed, but not in despair [[2 Corinthians 4:8]].
* **Future Rest and Justice:** There is a clear promise that God will provide **rest** for those who are **troubled** and recompense tribulation to those who cause it, tying present suffering to future divine justice [[2 Thessalonians 1:6-7]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G2346}}` **thlíbō** is a potent word that moves from a literal meaning of being physically thronged or crowded to a profound figurative description of affliction and tribulation. It defines a central element of the Christian experience, framing hardship not as a meaningless event, but as a purposeful state that is met with divine promises of consolation, salvation, and eventual rest. The use of `{{G2346}}` shows that while believers are expected to be **troubled** and walk a **narrow** path, this pressure is distinct from ultimate despair and is tied to God's final justice.
TRV