### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **lymaínomai**, represented by `{{G3075}}`, is used to describe destructive action, translated as to **make havock of**. Appearing only **1 time** in **1 unique verse**, its meaning is to soil or, figuratively, to insult and maltreat. This rare term vividly portrays a scene of intense persecution.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The single use of `{{G3075}}` is found in the account of Saul's assault on the early Christian community. In [[Acts 8:3]], it states that **Saul** `{{G4569}}` **made havock** of the **church** `{{G1577}}`. This was not a passive act; he was **entering into** `{{G1531}}` every **house** `{{G3624}}` and **haling** `{{G4951}}` both **men** `{{G435}}` and **women** `{{G1135}}`, **committing** `{{G3860}}` them to **prison** `{{G5438}}`. The word captures the violence and thoroughness of this campaign against the believers.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words from its sole context illuminate the meaning of `{{G3075}}`:
* `{{G4569}}` **Saûlos** (Saul): The one who makes havock of the church [[Acts 8:3]]. This same Saul was consenting to the death of Stephen and is central to the great persecution against the church at Jerusalem [[Acts 8:1]].
* `{{G1577}}` **ekklēsía** (church): The target of Saul's destructive actions. This refers to the religious congregation of Christians, the same body that Christ promised to build [[Matthew 16:18]] and for which He gave Himself [[Ephesians 5:25]].
* `{{G4951}}` **sýrō** (haling/drag): This word describes the physical violence involved in making havock. It denotes the act of dragging people away, as seen when believers were dragged before rulers [[Acts 17:6]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G3075}}` is significant despite its single appearance, as it defines a key moment in redemptive history.
* **Persecution of God's People:** The term is used exclusively to describe Saul's violent opposition to the **church** `{{G1577}}`. This act of making **havock** is presented as a direct attack on the assembly of believers in Jerusalem [[Acts 8:1]].
* **The Cost of Discipleship:** The havock involved believers being forcibly taken from their homes and committed to **prison** `{{G5438}}`. This underscores the reality of affliction and persecution that believers were told they would face [[Matthew 24:9]].
* **The Severity of Opposition:** The use of such a strong word illustrates the intense hostility the early church faced. Saul's actions were not mere disagreement but an attempt to systematically dismantle and destroy the Christian community.
### Summary
In summary, `{{G3075}}` is a powerful and specific term that, in its one scriptural use, provides a stark image of persecution. It encapsulates the violent and destructive efforts of **Saul** `{{G4569}}` against the early **church** `{{G1577}}`. The word "havock" serves as a potent reminder of the severe opposition faced by the first followers of Christ and the dramatic backdrop for Saul's own subsequent conversion and apostleship.
TRV