### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **mártys**, represented by `{{G3144}}`, functions as a term for a **witness**. It appears 34 times across 34 unique verses. The word's meaning ranges from a literal, judicial witness to a figurative one who testifies to what they have seen or know. By analogy, it also comes to mean a "martyr," someone who bears the ultimate witness through their death.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In scripture, `{{G3144}}` is used in several key ways. It has a legal and judicial sense, as seen in the principle that a matter should be established by two or three **witnesses** ([[Matthew 18:16]]; [[2 Corinthians 13:1]]). The term is central to the apostolic commission, as the disciples were called to be **witnesses** of Christ's resurrection to the ends of the earth ([[Acts 1:8]]; [[Acts 3:15]]). The word also applies to God, whom Paul calls as his **witness** or record ([[Romans 1:9]]; [[Philippians 1:8]]). Ultimately, `{{G3144}}` is used for those who are killed for their testimony, such as Antipas, called God's faithful **martyr** [[Revelation 2:13]], and Stephen [[Acts 22:20]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help define the scope of bearing witness:
* `{{G4103}}` **pistós** (trustworthy; trustful): This word describes the essential quality of a true witness. Jesus Christ is called the **faithful** witness [[Revelation 1:5]], and Antipas is described as a **faithful** martyr [[Revelation 2:13]].
* `{{G3670}}` **homologéō** (to assent, acknowledge): This verb represents the act of bearing witness. Timothy is reminded that he **professed** a good profession before many witnesses [[1 Timothy 6:12]].
* `{{G615}}` **apokteínō** (to kill outright): This word is directly linked to the concept of martyrdom. Antipas, the faithful martyr, was **slain** among the believers in Pergamum [[Revelation 2:13]].
* `{{G987}}` **blasphēméō** (to speak impiously): In contrast to giving true testimony, false witnesses were set up to speak **blasphemous** words against Stephen [[Acts 6:13]], and the high priest accused Jesus of **blasphemy**, thereby dismissing the need for further witnesses [[Matthew 26:65]].
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of `{{G3144}}` is profound, grounding Christian faith in verifiable testimony.
* **Apostolic Testimony:** The authority of the early church is founded on the apostles being eyewitnesses, particularly to the resurrection of Christ. They repeatedly state, "we are **witnesses**" of these events ([[Acts 2:32]]; [[Acts 5:32]]; [[Luke 24:48]]).
* **Divine Witness:** The concept is elevated by its application to the divine. Jesus is the ultimate "faithful and true **witness**" [[Revelation 3:14]], establishing the standard for all testimony. God Himself is invoked as a **witness** to the truth of Paul's ministry [[1 Thessalonians 2:5]].
* **The Ultimate Sacrifice:** The progression from verbal witness to dying for that testimony—becoming a **martyr**—demonstrates the supreme value of the truth being proclaimed. This is seen in the "blood of the **martyrs** of Jesus" [[Revelation 17:6]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G3144}}` **mártys** is a foundational word in biblical thought that evolves from a legal term to a core tenet of faith. It begins with the judicial requirement for establishing truth, becomes the primary mission of the apostles who witnessed Christ's life and resurrection, and culminates in the figure of the martyr, whose death is the ultimate testimony. The term powerfully connects the act of speaking truth to the life and death of the one who bears witness.
TRV