### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **hierósylos**, represented by `{{G2417}}`, refers to a **temple-despoiler**. It appears only **1 time** across **1 unique verse** in the entire Bible. The term, defined as a "robber of churches," is formed from the words `ἱερόν` (temple) and `συλάω` (to despoil), specifically denoting one who plunders sacred places.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In its single biblical appearance, `{{G2417}}` is used during a public defense in Ephesus. The townclerk addresses an angry crowd, stating that the accused men are "neither **robbers of churches**, nor yet blasphemers of your goddess" [[Acts 19:37]]. The word serves to absolve the men from the specific charge of plundering a sacred site, distinguishing the act of physical desecration from the charge of speaking against a female deity, or **goddess** `{{G2299}}`.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words in the passage illuminate the context of `{{G2417}}`:
* `{{G987}}` **blasphēméō** (to vilify; specially, to speak impiously): This action is presented as the alternative charge. The men were accused of being neither temple-robbers nor **blasphemers**, creating a distinction between a physical crime against a holy place and a verbal one against a deity [[Acts 19:37]].
* `{{G2299}}` **theá** (a female deity): This identifies the entity at the center of the dispute. The defense specifies that it was "your **goddess**" who was not blasphemed, pointing to the worship of Diana in Ephesus [[Acts 19:37]].
* `{{G435}}` **anḗr** (a man): This term specifies the individuals being defended. The townclerk refers to "these **men**" [[Acts 19:37]], grounding the abstract charges of sacrilege and blasphemy in the real-life situation of specific individuals.
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G2417}}` is subtle, derived from its unique context.
* **Principle of Lawful Conduct:** The defense in [[Acts 19:37]] hinges on the fact that the believers had not committed a recognizable crime like temple robbing. This demonstrates a principle that Christian witness should be distinct from unlawful behavior, ensuring that any opposition is to the message itself, not to criminal acts.
* **Distinction in Offenses:** By placing "robbers of churches" next to "blasphemers," the passage makes a clear distinction between physical action (despoiling) and verbal speech (vilifying). The innocence of the accused on both counts highlights a comprehensive standard of conduct.
* **The Concept of the Sacred:** The very existence of a word for "temple-despoiler" underscores the ancient world's recognition of sacred spaces. While the context is a pagan temple, the principle resonates with the biblical concept of holiness, such as when believers are themselves called "the temple of the living God" [[2 Corinthians 6:16]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G2417}}` is a highly specific term, "temple-despoiler," that appears only once in scripture. Its significance comes from its unique use in [[Acts 19:37]], where it serves to clear early believers of criminal wrongdoing against a pagan temple. The word helps distinguish between the physical act of sacrilege and the verbal offense of blasphemy, and in doing so, models a standard of civic conduct that separates Christian witness from unlawful behavior.
TRV