### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **agélē**, represented by `{{G34}}`, is a term for a **drove** or **herd**. It appears **8 times** across **7 unique verses** in the Bible. Its use is highly specific, exclusively referring to the herd of swine involved in the account of Jesus casting out demons.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{G34}}` is used to set the scene for a dramatic display of Christ's authority. In the synoptic Gospels, a great **herd** of swine is described as feeding on a mountain or a good way off ([[Matthew 8:30]], [[Mark 5:11]]). The demons, or "devils," besought Jesus to permit them to enter the **herd** of swine [[Matthew 8:31]]. After Jesus gave them leave, the unclean spirits entered the swine, and the "whole **herd**" ran violently down a steep place into the sea or lake and perished in the waters ([[Matthew 8:32]], [[Mark 5:13]], [[Luke 8:33]]).
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words provide a fuller context for the events surrounding the **herd**:
* `{{G5519}}` **choîros** (swine): This word is inseparable from `{{G34}}` in scripture, as every occurrence of **agélē** refers to a herd of **swine**. In the narrative, the demons specifically request to be sent into the swine [[Matthew 8:31]].
* `{{G1142}}` **daímōn** (devil): This word identifies the supernatural beings cast out by Jesus. These **devils** are the agents who beseech Jesus and then enter the herd, causing its destruction [[Matthew 8:31]].
* `{{G3729}}` **hormáō** (to run violently): This verb vividly describes the herd's final moments. It emphasizes the sudden, uncontrollable, and self-destructive rush of the animals after the demons entered them ([[Mark 5:13]], [[Luke 8:33]]).
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of `{{G34}}` is found in its role within this specific miracle account.
* **Christ's Authority:** The presence of the **herd** provides the setting for Jesus to demonstrate his absolute authority. He grants the demons' request, allowing them to enter the animals, which shows his command over the spiritual realm [[Luke 8:32]].
* **Destination of the Unclean:** The unclean spirits `{{G4151}}` enter a **herd** of unclean animals `{{G5519}}`, and their collective end is destruction. This event physically illustrates the destructive nature of demonic influence and its ultimate fate [[Mark 5:13]].
* **Visible Evidence of Spiritual Power:** The dramatic and total destruction of a large **herd** of swine provided undeniable, public evidence of the exorcism that had just occurred. The keepers of the herd fled and reported what had happened in the city [[Luke 8:34]], making the spiritual event a matter of public record.
### Summary
In summary, `{{G34}}` is more than just a word for a group of animals. It is a key element in the Gospel accounts of Jesus' power over demonic forces. Its exclusive use in this context locks its meaning to the visible, physical destruction that resulted from a spiritual confrontation, underscoring Christ's authority and the self-destructive nature of evil.
TRV