### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **kólasis**, represented by `{{G2851}}`, defines a **penal infliction**. Its base definition includes **punishment** and **torment**. It appears **2 times** across **2 unique verses**, highlighting its specific theological applications rather than general suffering.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In its biblical usage, `{{G2851}}` is presented as a state of consequence. In Matthew, it describes the "everlasting **punishment**" that awaits the unrighteous, standing in direct contrast to the eternal life given to the righteous [[Matthew 25:46]]. The Apostle John uses the word to describe a spiritual state, explaining that "fear hath **torment**" [[1 John 4:18]]. In this context, the **torment** of `{{G2851}}` is what is cast out by perfect love, linking the term to an internal condition as well as a final judgment.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the context of `{{G2851}}`, particularly in its connection to fear:
* `{{G5401}}` **phóbos**: from a primary (to be put in fear); alarm or fright:--be afraid, + exceedingly, fear, terror. This is the state that is said to contain **torment** [[1 John 4:18]]. It is a condition from which believers are delivered [[Romans 8:15]].
* `{{G5399}}` **phobéō**: from φόβος; to frighten, i.e. (passively) to be alarmed; by analogy, to be in awe of, i.e. revere:--be (+ sore) afraid, fear (exceedingly), reverence. This verb describes the act of fearing. John notes that the one who "feareth" is not made perfect in love, connecting the action of fearing directly to the experience of **torment** [[1 John 4:18]].
* `{{G906}}` **bállō**: a primary verb; to throw (in various applications, more or less violent or intense):--arise, cast (out), X dung, lay, lie, pour, put (up), send, strike, throw (down), thrust. Compare ῥίπτω. This verb describes the action taken against the fear that contains **torment**. Perfect love "casteth out" fear, thereby eliminating the associated **torment** [[1 John 4:18]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G2851}}` is significant and focused on two areas:
* **Eschatological Judgment:** The word is used to define the final, "everlasting **punishment**" for the unrighteous, marking a definitive and eternal separation from God as a penal consequence [[Matthew 25:46]].
* **The Nature of Fear:** `{{G2851}}` is not merely a consequence of fear, but an intrinsic part of it. The statement "fear hath **torment**" suggests that fear, when separated from perfect love, is an experience of penal infliction in itself [[1 John 4:18]].
* **The Power of Perfect Love:** The concept of **torment** is presented as something that can be overcome. Perfect love actively "casteth out" the fear that holds this **torment**, indicating that for the believer, this state of penal infliction is not their present reality.
### Summary
In summary, `{{G2851}}` **kólasis** is a highly specific term for penal infliction. It is not used as a general word for suffering, but is applied in two key contexts: the eternal **punishment** resulting from divine judgment and the inherent **torment** that resides within fear. In both instances, scripture presents a contrast, positioning this **punishment** or **torment** opposite to the eternal life and perfect love that define the state of the righteous. The word's rare usage underscores its significant theological weight.
TRV