### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **kolázō**, represented by `{{G2849}}`, is used to mean **chastise** or **punish**. Derived from a word meaning 'dwarf,' its proper sense is to curtail or cut short, which is applied figuratively as chastisement or being reserved for infliction. It appears **2 times** across **2 unique verses** in the Bible.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In its biblical usage, `{{G2849}}` appears in two distinct contexts. In a divine sense, it describes the Lord's `{{G2962}}` action of reserving the unjust `{{G94}}` to be **punished** on the day of judgment `{{G2920}}` [[2 Peter 2:9]]. In a human sense, it describes the desire of the authorities to **punish** the apostles, but they were unable to find a way to do so because the people `{{G2992}}` were glorifying God `{{G2316}}` [[Acts 4:21]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words provide context for the concept of punishment:
* `{{G94}}` **ádikos** (unjust): This word describes those who are set aside for punishment, contrasting them with the godly who are delivered [[2 Peter 2:9]].
* `{{G5083}}` **tēréō** (to reserve): Used alongside **kolázō**, this word means to guard or keep, indicating that the unjust are being held in custody for future punishment [[2 Peter 2:9]].
* `{{G2920}}` **krísis** (judgment): This specifies the timing and context for the punishment of the unjust, linking it to a final, divine assessment [[2 Peter 2:9]].
* `{{G4324}}` **prosapeiléō** (to menace additionally): In the human context of Acts, this word shows that while the authorities wanted to punish the apostles, they were limited to only threatening them further [[Acts 4:21]].
### Theological Significance
The theological implications of `{{G2849}}` center on divine justice and deliverance.
* **Divine Retribution:** The use in [[2 Peter 2:9]] establishes that God has a process for holding the unjust `{{G94}}` accountable. Punishment is not arbitrary but is reserved for a specific time: the day `{{G2250}}` of judgment.
* **God's Deliverance of the Godly:** The act of reserving the unjust for punishment is contrasted with the Lord's ability to deliver the godly `{{G2152}}` from temptations `{{G3986}}` [[2 Peter 2:9]]. This highlights God's protective nature towards the faithful.
* **Limits of Human Authority:** The instance in [[Acts 4:21]] shows that human desire to punish can be thwarted, especially when the people `{{G2992}}` glorify God `{{G2316}}`. This contrasts human limitations with the Lord's certain execution of judgment.
### Summary
In summary, `{{G2849}}` conveys the concept of punishment in both divine and human spheres. While it appears only twice, its usage starkly contrasts the limited ability of human authorities to inflict punishment with the absolute certainty of God's future judgment. It underscores the biblical theme that while the Lord `{{G2962}}` delivers the godly `{{G2152}}`, He reserves the unjust `{{G94}}` for a final, decisive chastisement.
TRV