### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **amýnomai**, represented by `{{G292}}`, means to **defend** or protect oneself. It is defined as the middle voice of a primary verb, meaning to ward off for oneself. This specific term is quite rare, appearing only **1 time** in **1 verse** in the entire Bible, highlighting its very specific application.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The sole use of `{{G292}}` is found in the account of Moses's early life. In [[Acts 7:24]], it describes the moment Moses, **seeing** `{{G1492}}` one of his kinsmen **suffer wrong** `{{G91}}`, **defended** him. This act of defense was not passive; it was an intervention that included avenging the one who was **oppressed** `{{G2669}}` and smiting the Egyptian responsible. The word captures a direct, personal act of protection in response to injustice.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words in the context of [[Acts 7:24]] illuminate the meaning of `{{G292}}`:
* `{{G91}}` **adikéō** (to be unjust, i.e. (actively) do wrong): This word establishes the context for the defense, as Moses acts upon seeing someone **suffer wrong** [[Acts 7:24]]. It signifies the injustice that provokes the protective action.
* `{{G2669}}` **kataponéō** (to labor down, i.e. wear with toil (figuratively, harass)): This describes the state of the person being defended. Moses defended him that was **oppressed** [[Acts 7:24]], highlighting the hardship and harassment being endured.
* `{{G1557}}` **ekdíkēsis** (vindication, retribution): This word is directly linked to the act of defense, showing its outcome. The defense of the wronged individual resulted in **vengeance** [[Acts 7:24]].
### Theological Significance
While `{{G292}}` appears only once, its context carries theological weight.
* **Active Response to Injustice:** The word is used exclusively to describe an immediate and forceful response to seeing someone **suffer wrong** `{{G91}}`. This highlights a theme of active intervention on behalf of the **oppressed** `{{G2669}}`, as seen in Moses's actions in [[Acts 7:24]].
* **Human Action and Divine Vengeance:** The act of defending is immediately paired with taking **vengeance** `{{G1557}}`. This specific instance portrays a human carrying out retribution, which stands in contrast to other passages where vengeance is presented as belonging to the Lord [[Romans 12:19]].
* **Forceful Protection:** The defense described involves a physical act of striking, or to **smite** `{{G3960}}`. In its only biblical use, it demonstrates that protecting the vulnerable can be a decisive and forceful intervention against an aggressor.
### Summary
In summary, `{{G292}}` **amýnomai** provides a very specific term for **defending** someone from harm. Its singular appearance in scripture fixes its meaning to the story of Moses intervening on behalf of an oppressed kinsman [[Acts 7:24]]. While the word itself is rare, it encapsulates a powerful concept of actively and physically protecting the wronged. It demonstrates that defense is not merely a passive state but can be a direct, forceful action against injustice.
TRV