### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **kylióō**, represented by `{{G2947}}`, means **to roll about** or **wallow**. Derived from a root word signifying circularity, it is an exceptionally rare term in the New Testament. It appears only **1 time** in **1 unique verse**, making its single usage highly specific and descriptive.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The sole appearance of `{{G2947}}` is in the account of Jesus healing a boy possessed by a spirit [[Mark 9:20]]. In this dramatic scene, as soon as the spirit `saw{G1492}` Jesus, it violently `tare{G4682}` the boy. The boy then `fell{G4098}` to the `ground{G1093}` and **wallowed** while `foaming{G875}` at the mouth. The word **wallowed** here captures the intense, uncontrolled, and desperate physical convulsion caused by the malevolent spirit in the presence of divine authority.
### Related Words & Concepts
The action of `{{G2947}}` is part of a sequence of violent physical manifestations described by several related words:
* `{{G4682}}` **sparássō** (to mangle, i.e. convulse with epilepsy): This term describes the initial violent convulsion that seizes the boy. In another instance, an unclean spirit had **torn** a man before crying out and leaving him [[Mark 1:26]].
* `{{G4098}}` **píptō** (to fall): This word denotes the loss of posture and control that results from the spiritual attack. It is used to describe how the boy **fell** to the ground [[Mark 9:20]], but it is also used in contexts of worship, such as when John **fell** at the angel's feet [[Revelation 19:10]].
* `{{G875}}` **aphrízō** (to froth at the mouth): This specifies a key physical symptom occurring during the convulsion. The boy **wallowed** while **foaming** [[Mark 9:20]], a condition noted as a recurring part of his affliction [[Mark 9:18]].
* `{{G1093}}` **gē** (soil; by extension a region, or the solid part or the whole of the terrene globe): This word establishes the setting for the event, as the boy fell on the **ground**. The term is used broadly in scripture to refer to the physical **earth** [[Matthew 24:35]] as well as the realm of human affairs in contrast to things above [[Colossians 3:2]].
### Theological Significance
The thematic weight of `{{G2947}}` is concentrated in its single, powerful context. It serves to illustrate several key ideas:
* **Physical Manifestation of Spiritual Evil:** The act of wallowing provides a vivid and distressing picture of the physical torment that a demonic entity can inflict upon a person, demonstrating its oppressive control [[Mark 9:20]].
* **Reaction to Divine Presence:** The wallowing and other convulsions are triggered specifically when the spirit `saw{G1492}` Jesus. This violent reaction is not a random fit but a direct response to the authority and holiness of Christ.
* **The Severity of Bondage:** The use of `kylióō` alongside words like `tare{G4682}` and `foaming{G875}` emphasizes the utter helplessness of the individual and the extreme nature of the spiritual bondage from which Jesus provides deliverance.
### Summary
In summary, `{{G2947}}` **kylióō** is a highly specific verb that, while appearing only once, offers a profound insight. Its meaning, **to wallow**, is graphically deployed in [[Mark 9:20]] to depict the chaotic and painful physical consequences of demonic possession. The word functions to magnify the desperate struggle between the unclean spirit and the supreme authority of Jesus, thereby highlighting the power and compassion inherent in Christ's subsequent act of healing.
TRV