### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **lithoboléō**, represented by `{{G3036}}`, is defined as **to throw stones, i.e. lapidate**. The word comes from a compound of λίθος and βάλλω. It appears **9 times** across **9 unique verses** in the Bible, consistently describing the act of stoning as a form of execution or violent assault.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{G3036}}` is used in several key contexts. It is presented as a form of capital punishment under the law, as when accusers state, "Moses in the law commanded us, that such should be stoned" [[John 8:5]]. The word is frequently associated with the persecution of God's messengers; Jesus laments over Jerusalem, a city that "stonest them which are sent unto thee" ([[Matthew 23:37]], [[Luke 13:34]]). The book of Acts provides a direct account of its use in the martyrdom of Stephen, who was cast out of the city and stoned [[Acts 7:58-59]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words expand upon the contexts in which stoning occurs:
* `{{G615}}` **apokteínō** (to kill outright): Often used in parallel with stoning, this word emphasizes its lethal intent. Jerusalem is described as the city that "killest the prophets, and stonest them which are sent" [[Luke 13:34]].
* `{{G1781}}` **entéllomai** (to enjoin): This word establishes the legal pretext for stoning. In John's account, accusers refer to the law of Moses which "commanded us, that such should be stoned" [[John 8:5]].
* `{{G1544}}` **ekbállō** (to eject): This highlights the process of an execution by stoning. Before his death, Stephen was first **cast** out of the city and then stoned [[Acts 7:58]].
### Theological Significance
The narrative weight of `{{G3036}}` is significant. It represents a recurring theme of lethal rejection.
* **Judicial Execution:** Stoning is presented as a penalty prescribed by Law. This is referenced both as a direct command [[John 8:5]] and in an Old Testament context where even a beast touching the holy mountain "shall be stoned" [[Hebrews 12:20]].
* **Rejection of Divine Messengers:** The act of stoning becomes a powerful symbol for the rejection of those sent by God. Jesus laments that Jerusalem **stones** the prophets sent to it [[Matthew 23:37]], a pattern that is seen in the death of Stephen [[Acts 7:59]].
* **Hostility Towards the Gospel:** The threat of stoning is directed at those spreading the gospel, as seen when an "assault" was planned by Gentiles and Jews to **stone** them [[Acts 14:5]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G3036}}` is more than a simple descriptor for a method of execution. It functions as a significant marker of conflict and rejection within the biblical narrative. From its basis as a legal punishment in the Mosaic Law to its repeated use against God's prophets and apostles, **lithoboléō** illustrates the ultimate hostility shown towards divine authority and its messengers, culminating in foundational stories of persecution and martyrdom.
TRV