### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **Iambrēs**, represented by `{{G2387}}`, is the name of an Egyptian. It appears just **1 time** in **1 unique verse** in the Bible, identifying a specific individual in a historical context of opposition. The name itself is noted as being of Egyptian origin.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In its sole biblical appearance, `{{G2387}}` is mentioned alongside **Jannes** `{{G2389}}` as someone who **withstood** `{{G436}}` **Moses** `{{G3475}}`. This act of opposition is used as a parallel to describe those who also **resist** `{{G436}}` the **truth** `{{G225}}`. These individuals are characterized as men with **corrupt** `{{G2704}}` **minds** `{{G3563}}` and as **reprobate** `{{G96}}` concerning the **faith** `{{G4102}}` [[2 Timothy 3:8]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words provide a fuller context for the actions and character of Iambrēs:
* `{{G2389}}` **Iannēs** (Jannes): Paired directly with Iambrēs, Jannes is also identified as an Egyptian who participated in withstanding Moses [[2 Timothy 3:8]].
* `{{G436}}` **anthístēmi** (to stand against, i.e. oppose): This verb describes the specific action taken by Iambrēs and Jannes against Moses, establishing the theme of active resistance to God's messenger [[2 Timothy 3:8]].
* `{{G3475}}` **Mōseús** (Moses): As the Hebrew lawgiver, Moses represents the divine authority and truth that Iambrēs opposed [[2 Timothy 3:8]].
* `{{G96}}` **adókimos** (reprobate): This term describes the spiritual state of those who, like Iambrēs, resist the truth. It means to be unapproved, rejected, or worthless, particularly concerning faith [[2 Timothy 3:8]].
### Theological Significance
The single mention of `{{G2387}}` carries significant theological weight as an example of spiritual opposition.
* **Archetype of Resistance:** Iambrēs serves as a biblical archetype for those who actively stand against God's truth and His appointed servants. His actions are presented as a historical precedent for ongoing spiritual conflict [[2 Timothy 3:8]].
* **Corruption and Opposition:** The narrative links the act of resisting the **truth** `{{G225}}` with having a **corrupt** `{{G2704}}` **mind** `{{G3563}}`. This suggests that opposition to divine truth leads to intellectual and moral decay.
* **Reprobation in Faith:** The ultimate consequence for Iambrēs and those like him is to be found **reprobate** `{{G96}}` concerning the **faith** `{{G4102}}`. This highlights a state of being rejected or disqualified from the standpoint of genuine faith.
### Summary
In summary, `{{G2387}}` **Iambrēs**, while appearing only once, functions as a powerful illustration of opposition to God. His story, inseparable from that of **Jannes** `{{G2389}}`, serves as a scriptural warning. It demonstrates that withstanding God’s truth and messengers leads to a corrupt mind and a state of being reprobate, or rejected, in matters of faith.
TRV