### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **θραύω (thraúō)**, represented by `{{G2352}}`, is a primary verb meaning **to crush** or **bruise**. It is a rare term, appearing only **1 time** in **1 unique verse** in the Bible.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The sole appearance of `{{G2352}}` is found in Luke's Gospel, where Jesus announces his mission by reading from a prophecy. He declares that he has been sent "to set at liberty them that are **bruised**" [[Luke 4:18]]. In this context, the word is used to describe those who have been crushed or oppressed, connecting a state of injury to a need for divine liberation.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words in the same passage clarify the meaning of being bruised:
* `{{G4937}}` **syntríbō** (to crush completely): This word appears in the same verse to describe the "brokenhearted" [[Luke 4:18]]. It signifies being shattered and reinforces the theme of profound affliction that Christ came to heal.
* `{{G859}}` **áphesis** (freedom; pardon): Translated as "deliverance" for the captives and "liberty" for the bruised, this term describes the release and freedom that Christ's mission provides to the oppressed [[Luke 4:18]].
* `{{G164}}` **aichmálōtos** (a prisoner of war; captive): This term for **captives** is used in parallel with those who are bruised, highlighting a state of bondage from which liberation is promised [[Luke 4:18]].
* `{{G2390}}` **iáomai** (to cure): This word, translated as **heal**, is part of the same declaration of purpose, underscoring that the mission to the brokenhearted and bruised is one of restorative healing [[Luke 4:18]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G2352}}` is centered on its role in defining Christ's purpose.
* **Christ's Mission to the Oppressed:** Its use in Jesus' inaugural sermon establishes that His ministry is specifically directed toward those who are crushed, downtrodden, and afflicted [[Luke 4:18]].
* **A State Requiring Liberation:** The condition of being "bruised" is presented as a form of bondage requiring one to be "set at liberty" `{{G859}}`, framing salvation as an act of release from crushing spiritual and emotional burdens.
* **Comprehensive Restoration:** Paired with healing the brokenhearted `{{G4937}}`, freeing captives `{{G164}}`, and restoring sight to the blind `{{G5185}}`, the term illustrates the holistic nature of the restoration Jesus brings to humanity.
### Summary
In summary, while **thraúō** `{{G2352}}` is used only once, its placement in scripture is highly significant. It defines a specific aspect of the human condition—being crushed or **bruised**—that Jesus explicitly came to address. Its singular use in [[Luke 4:18]] encapsulates the heart of Christ's mission: to bring liberty to the oppressed and healing to those who have been broken by the weight of their circumstances.
TRV