### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **loimós**, represented by `{{G3061}}`, defines a **plague** or **pestilence**. It appears **3 times** in **3 unique verses** in the Bible. The term can be understood literally as a disease, or figuratively as a person who is a pest or a source of trouble.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In scripture, `{{G3061}}` is used to describe calamitous events and to characterize a disruptive individual. In both [[Matthew 24:7]] and [[Luke 21:11]], it is listed among signs of widespread distress, where there will be "famines `{{G3042}}`, and **pestilences** `{{G3061}}`, and earthquakes `{{G4578}}`." In contrast, [[Acts 24:5]] uses the word figuratively, where Paul is accused of being a "**pestilent** `{{G3061}}` fellow" and a mover of sedition among the Jews.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words provide context for the types of affliction associated with `{{G3061}}`:
* `{{G3042}}` **limós** (a scarcity of food:--dearth, famine, hunger.): Often appearing alongside `loimós`, this word points to the calamity of widespread food shortage ([[Matthew 24:7]], [[Luke 21:11]]).
* `{{G4578}}` **seismós** (a commotion, i.e. (of the air) a gale, (of the ground) an earthquake:--earthquake, tempest.): This term describes great natural upheavals and is mentioned in conjunction with **pestilences** as a sign of turbulent times ([[Matthew 24:7]], [[Luke 21:11]]).
* `{{G4714}}` **stásis** (from the base of ἵστημι; a standing (properly, the act), i.e. (by analogy) position (existence); by implication, a popular uprising; figuratively, controversy:--dissension, insurrection, X standing, uproar.): This word is linked to the figurative meaning of `loimós` in [[Acts 24:5]], where the "pestilent fellow" is also described as a mover of **sedition**.
### Theological Significance
The significance of `{{G3061}}` is tied to its depiction of severe, destructive forces.
* **A Sign of Calamity:** In the Gospels, **pestilences** are presented as part of a series of catastrophic events, including famines and earthquakes, that mark a period of great turmoil ([[Matthew 24:7]], [[Luke 21:11]]).
* **A Metaphor for Social Disruption:** The figurative application of `{{G3061}}` to a person shows how an individual could be perceived as a plague on society. In [[Acts 24:5]], Paul is labeled a **pestilent** person because he is seen as a source of **sedition** `{{G4714}}` and a threat to social and religious order.
* **Literal and Figurative Affliction:** The word's usage bridges the gap between physical disease and social unrest, portraying both as dangerous and corrupting influences.
### Summary
In summary, `{{G3061}}` `loimós` is a potent term for a **plague**, whether it manifests as a literal **pestilence** or as a figurative **pest**. Though used only three times, it effectively communicates the concept of a destructive affliction. Its appearance alongside terms for famine `{{G3042}}` and earthquakes `{{G4578}}` frames it as a sign of great upheaval, while its use in [[Acts 24:5]] demonstrates its power as a label for an individual deemed a source of social contagion.
TRV