### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **litházō**, represented by `{{G3034}}`, is defined as **to lapidate** or **stone**. Derived from the word λίθος (stone), it appears **8 times** in **8 unique verses**. It specifically denotes the act of pelting someone with stones, a method of execution or mob punishment.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{G3034}}` is used to describe severe acts of violence and persecution. The Jews attempted to **stone** Jesus, accusing him of blasphemy because he, being a man, made himself God [[John 10:33]]. After showing them many good works, Jesus directly asked for which of them they intended to **stone** him [[John 10:32]]. The Apostle Paul was also a victim of this act; after being **stoned** by a crowd in Iconium, he was dragged from the city and presumed dead [[Acts 14:19]]. The threat was so significant that officials feared the people and brought the apostles without violence, lest they should have been **stoned** [[Acts 5:26]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words provide deeper context for the act of stoning:
* `{{G3037}}` **líthos**: This word for **a stone** is the root of `litházō`. It is the physical object wielded by the crowd that took up **stones** to attack Jesus [[John 10:31]].
* `{{G970}}` **bía**: Meaning **force**, this word is used in a context directly related to stoning. Officers chose to bring the apostles without **violence** specifically because they feared the people would stone them [[Acts 5:26]].
* `{{G5399}}` **phobéō**: This word, meaning **to frighten** or **to be alarmed**, describes the officers' state of mind; they **feared** the people, which motivated them to avoid a confrontation that could lead to being stoned [[Acts 5:26]].
### Theological Significance
The use of `{{G3034}}` carries significant weight, highlighting several key themes:
* **Persecution and Martyrdom:** Stoning is listed as one of the brutal fates suffered by the faithful. It is mentioned alongside being sawn asunder and slain with the sword as a testimony of their suffering [[Hebrews 11:37]]. Paul recounts being **stoned** once as part of the list of hardships he endured for his ministry [[2 Corinthians 11:25]].
* **Accusation of Blasphemy:** The desire to **stone** Jesus is explicitly linked to the charge of blasphemy [[John 10:33]]. This shows it as a prescribed or culturally accepted punishment for the most severe religious offenses.
* **Mob Violence:** The act of stoning often appears as a form of spontaneous and violent mob justice, as seen when Jews from Antioch and Iconium persuaded the people to **stone** Paul [[Acts 14:19]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G3034}}` is not a general term for killing but a highly specific word for lapidation. It consistently appears in contexts of extreme hostility, whether as a tool of mob violence, a response to perceived blasphemy, or a method of persecuting the righteous. Its usage underscores the physical dangers and violent opposition faced by Jesus and his followers.
TRV