### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **katephístēmi**, represented by `{{G2721}}`, means **to stand over against, i.e. rush upon (assault)**. It appears only **1 time** in **1 unique verse** in the Bible. The word's base definition, a combination of κατά and ἐφίστημι, conveys a direct and hostile action of making an insurrection against someone.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The single use of `{{G2721}}` occurs in the book of Acts. It describes a volatile event where "the Jews **made insurrection** with one accord against Paul" [[Acts 18:12]]. This action took place while **Gallio** `{{G1058}}` was serving as the deputy of **Achaia** `{{G882}}`. The word captures the sudden and unified nature of the assault, which culminated in Paul being brought by force to the **judgment seat** `{{G968}}` for a legal confrontation.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words from its sole context in [[Acts 18:12]] help to frame the meaning of this hostile action:
* `{{G3661}}` **homothymadón** (with one accord): This adverb means **unanimously** and describes how the Jews acted in unison when they rose up against Paul.
* `{{G3972}}` **Paûlos** (Paul): The target of the insurrection, he is identified as **Paul, the name of a Roman and of an apostle**.
* `{{G1058}}` **Gallíōn** (Gallio): The Roman officer, **Gallio**, before whom Paul was brought, setting the legal and political scene of the confrontation.
* `{{G968}}` **bēma** (judgment-seat): The destination of this action, defined as a **rostrum, i.e. a tribunal**, where the case against Paul would be heard.
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of `{{G2721}}` is tied to the event it describes—a hostile uprising against a messenger of the gospel.
* **Conflict and Opposition:** The word highlights the intense conflict that arose from Paul's ministry. The "insurrection" by **the Jews** `{{G2453}}` against **Paul** `{{G3972}}` represents a direct and physical opposition to the spread of the gospel [[Acts 18:12]].
* **Perversion of Unity:** The term **homothymadón** `{{G3661}}`, meaning "with one accord," is used to describe the unified nature of this assault. This stands in stark contrast to its frequent use to describe the positive, prayerful unity of the early believers ([[Acts 1:14]], [[Acts 4:24]]).
* **Human vs. Divine Judgment:** The act of bringing Paul to the **judgment seat** `{{G968}}` of a human ruler [[Acts 18:12]] contrasts with the ultimate accountability all believers have before the **judgment seat** of Christ ([[Romans 14:10]], [[2 Corinthians 5:10]]).
### Summary
In summary, **katephístēmi** `{{G2721}}` is a specific and potent term used only once in Scripture to denote a violent uprising. Its appearance in [[Acts 18:12]] vividly captures a moment of organized opposition against the apostle Paul. While the word itself is rare, the event it describes—conflict in the face of the gospel—is a significant theme, illustrating the challenges and persecution encountered by the early church.
TRV