### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **anaíresis**, represented by `{{G336}}`, denotes the act of **killing** or **death**. It is derived from the word ἀναιρέω `{{G337}}`. It appears only **2 times** in **2 unique verses**, making its usage highly specific and significant.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The term `{{G336}}` is used exclusively in the book of Acts to describe the **death** of Stephen. In both instances, Saul (who would become the apostle Paul) is described as "consenting" to this event. The first occurrence connects Stephen's **death** to the start of "a great persecution against the church" in Jerusalem [[Acts 8:1]]. The second occurrence is part of Paul's testimony, where he recounts his presence and consent at the moment Stephen, described as a "martyr," was killed [[Acts 22:20]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words provide deeper context for the act of killing described by `{{G336}}`:
* `{{G337}}` **anairéō** (to take away (violently), i.e. abolish, murder): This is the verb from which `{{G336}}` is derived. It means to **slay** or **put to death**. In his testimony, Paul states he consented to Stephen's death `{{G336}}` and stood by while others **slew** `{{G337}}` him [[Acts 22:20]].
* `{{G4909}}` **syneudokéō** (to think well of in common, i.e. assent to, feel gratified with): This word appears in both verses alongside `{{G336}}`, emphasizing that Saul was **consenting** to Stephen's death ([[Acts 8:1]], [[Acts 22:20]]).
* `{{G3144}}` **mártys** (a witness... a "martyr"): The specific death `{{G336}}` described is that of Stephen, who is explicitly called a **martyr** [[Acts 22:20]], linking the act of killing to the concept of martyrdom.
* `{{G1375}}` **diōgmós** (persecution): The immediate consequence of Stephen's death `{{G336}}` was a great **persecution** against the church in Jerusalem [[Acts 8:1]], showing the broader impact of this specific act.
### Theological Significance
The theological importance of `{{G336}}` is concentrated in its specific context surrounding Stephen's execution:
* **The First Martyrdom:** The use of `{{G336}}` in Acts documents the killing of the first Christian **martyr** `{{G3144}}`, Stephen [[Acts 22:20]]. It marks a pivotal moment where bearing witness to Christ results in death.
* **Catalyst for Persecution and Expansion:** Stephen's **death** `{{G336}}` is the direct trigger for a "great persecution" against the church, leading to the scattering of believers from Jerusalem [[Acts 8:1]]. This event, while tragic, became an impetus for the spread of the church's message.
* **Significance in Paul's Testimony:** Saul's consent to Stephen's **death** `{{G336}}` is a key element of his personal history. He later references this act as part of his testimony, underscoring the profound change from a persecutor to an apostle [[Acts 22:20]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G336}}` is a specific and rare term for **death** as an act of killing. Its two appearances are confined to the narrative of Stephen's execution in the book of Acts. The word serves as a crucial link between the concepts of martyrdom, persecution, and the personal testimony of Saul of Tarsus, marking a significant turning point in the early history of the church.
TRV