### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **thymomachéō**, represented by `{{G2371}}`, describes a state of intense anger or conflict. It is defined as being in a furious fight or, figuratively, to be exasperated. The term is translated in scripture as "be **highly displeased**." Appearing only **1 time** in **1 unique verse**, its meaning is understood entirely through its specific narrative context.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The single use of `{{G2371}}` is found in [[Acts 12:20]], which describes a severe political dispute. The verse states that King Herod `{{G2264}}` **was highly displeased** with the people of Tyre `{{G5183}}` and Sidon `{{G4606}}`. In response to his anger, a delegation from these cities came to him "with one accord" `{{G3661}}` to seek a peaceful resolution. Their motivation was practical and urgent: their country `{{G5561}}` was "nourished" `{{G5142}}`, or supplied with food, by the king's `{{G937}}` own lands. To achieve this, they first secured the friendship of Blastus `{{G986}}`, the king's chamberlain `{{G2846}}`, and through him desired `{{G154}}` peace `{{G1515}}`.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help illuminate the context of this intense displeasure:
* `{{G2264}}` **Hērṓdēs** (Herod): The name for four Jewish kings, this term denotes the royal authority at the center of the conflict. Herod's power is the reason his being **highly displeased** was a critical threat to Tyre and Sidon [[Acts 12:20]].
* `{{G1515}}` **eirḗnē** (peace): Defined as peace, quietness, or rest, this is what the people of Tyre and Sidon sought from Herod. Their desire for **peace** was a direct response to the conflict and essential for their prosperity [[Acts 12:20]].
* `{{G3661}}` **homothymadón** (with one accord): Meaning "unanimously," this adverb describes the unified front presented by the delegation from Tyre and Sidon. Their coming **with one accord** shows the seriousness and unity of their purpose in the face of Herod's anger [[Acts 12:20]].
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of `{{G2371}}` is tied directly to the narrative in which it appears, highlighting themes of human authority, dependence, and the need for reconciliation.
* **The Volatility of Earthly Power:** Herod's state of being **highly displeased** demonstrates the immense and often volatile power held by human rulers. His anger had the potential to cause widespread suffering, showing the precariousness of life under such authority [[Acts 12:20]].
* **Dependence and Humility:** The crisis forced the people of Tyre and Sidon to acknowledge their economic dependence, as their country was nourished `{{G5142}}` by the king's country. This dependence led them to approach a hostile power with a plea for peace `{{G1515}}`.
* **The Path to Reconciliation:** The passage illustrates a practical model for resolving conflict. Faced with a furious authority, the people did not retaliate but sought reconciliation through diplomacy, making an ally of the king's chamberlain `{{G2846}}` to plead their case [[Acts 12:20]].
### Summary
In summary, while **thymomachéō** `{{G2371}}` is an exceptionally rare word in the Bible, its single appearance provides a powerful illustration of conflict and resolution. It captures a moment of extreme exasperation from a king, forcing a dependent people to act with unity and strategy to restore peace. The term serves as a potent descriptor for a furious fight that threatens survival and drives the necessity of reconciliation.
TRV