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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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