### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **thórybos**, represented by `{{G2351}}`, is defined as a disturbance, tumult, or uproar. It appears **7 times** across **7 unique verses** in the Bible. This term consistently points to moments of public commotion, social unrest, or intense, chaotic displays of emotion.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{G2351}}` marks significant points of conflict and tension. During the trial of Jesus, Pilate proceeds with the crucifixion when he sees that a **tumult** is being made by the multitude [[Matthew 27:24]]. Earlier, the chief priests had decided against arresting Jesus on the feast day, fearing it would cause an **uproar** among the people ([[Matthew 26:5]], [[Mark 14:2]]). The term also describes the scene at the house of the ruler of the synagogue, where Jesus saw the **tumult** of people weeping and wailing greatly [[Mark 5:38]]. In the book of Acts, Paul waited for an **uproar** to cease before departing for Macedonia [[Acts 20:1]], and a commander could not determine the facts of a situation due to the **tumult** of the crowd [[Acts 21:34]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words clarify the nature of the disturbances described by `{{G2351}}`:
* `{{G1096}}` **gínomai** (to cause to be... to become...): This verb is often paired with **thórybos** to show a tumult being **made** or coming into being [[Matthew 27:24]].
* `{{G214}}` **alalázō** (to vociferate... to wail... to clang): This describes the sound within a tumult, such as those who **wailed** greatly during the **tumult** at the home of the ruler of the synagogue [[Mark 5:38]].
* `{{G3793}}` **óchlos** (a throng... the rabble... a riot): This identifies the source of the commotion, as a **tumult** often arises from a **multitude** or throng of people ([[Matthew 27:24]], [[Acts 21:34]]).
* `{{G994}}` **boáō** (to halloo, i.e. shout...): This captures the vocal chaos of a tumult, where people in the multitude **cried** out different things [[Acts 21:34]].
* `{{G4183}}` **polýs** (much... many...): This word quantifies the intensity of the scene, as seen when people wailed **greatly** as part of the **tumult** [[Mark 5:38]].
### Theological Significance
The use of `{{G2351}}` carries significant narrative weight, often highlighting moments where human passion and disorder intersect with divine events.
* **Disruption of Order:** The term signifies a breakdown of social control, forcing figures of authority like Pilate to act in response to a chaotic **tumult** rather than established procedure [[Matthew 27:24]]. A commander in Acts is similarly unable to get information due to a **tumult** [[Acts 21:34]].
* **A Tool of Opposition and Fear:** The religious leaders feared creating a **tumult** among the people, which influenced their timing for arresting Jesus [[Matthew 26:5]]. Conversely, Paul specifically refutes the charge that he was found with a crowd or with **tumult** in the temple [[Acts 24:18]].
* **Expression of Intense Emotion:** The word is not limited to angry mobs. It also conveys the powerful and chaotic sound of collective grief, as seen in the **tumult** of those weeping and wailing at the house of the ruler of the synagogue [[Mark 5:38]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G2351}}` is more than a simple word for noise. It is a specific descriptor for a disruptive and chaotic disturbance, whether from a volatile mob, a public outcry, or intense communal grief. It consistently marks points in the narrative where human disorder presents a challenge or a backdrop to the unfolding of God's purposes, from the trial of Christ to the ministry of the apostles.
TRV