### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **anakóptō**, represented by `{{G348}}`, means to **hinder** or check. It is formed from the words ἀνά and κόπτω, conveying the idea of beating back. This specific term is quite rare, appearing only **1 time** in **1 unique verse** in the entire Bible.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In its sole biblical appearance, `{{G348}}` is used metaphorically. In a letter to the Galatians, the author poses a pointed question: "Ye did **run** well; who did **hinder** you that ye should not **obey** the truth?" [[Galatians 5:7]]. The word **hinder** here illustrates a deliberate obstruction or a "beating back" that has caused the believers to deviate from their positive spiritual progress, which was previously described as running **well**.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words from its context enrich the meaning of `{{G348}}`:
* `{{G1465}}` **enkóptō** (to cut into, i.e. (figuratively) impede, detain): Used alongside `{{G348}}` in [[Galatians 5:7]], this word also denotes obstruction. Paul uses it to describe how Satan **hindered** him [[1 Thessalonians 2:18]] and how he was **hindered** from visiting Rome [[Romans 15:22]].
* `{{G5143}}` **tréchō** (to run or walk hastily): This verb establishes the metaphor of the Christian life as a race. The Galatians were said to **run** well before being hindered [[Galatians 5:7]]. This theme of running a spiritual race is also found elsewhere, such as in the call to **run** with patience [[Hebrews 12:1]].
* `{{G2573}}` **kalōs** (well (usually morally)): This adverb describes the initial state of the Galatians' spiritual journey. They were running **well** [[Galatians 5:7]]. It signifies doing something in a good or honest way, such as when elders **rule** well [[1 Timothy 5:17]] or when believers do **good** to their enemies [[Luke 6:27]].
* `{{G3982}}` **peíthō** (to convince... to assent... to obey, persuade, trust, yield): This word describes the intended result of the hindrance—to stop the Galatians from **obeying** the truth [[Galatians 5:7]]. It carries a sense of persuasion or conviction, as when one is **persuaded** of God's power [[Romans 8:38]] or is called to **obey** spiritual leaders [[Hebrews 13:17]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G348}}` comes entirely from its singular, impactful context in [[Galatians 5:7]].
* **Spiritual Progress and Obstruction:** The use of `{{G348}}` emphasizes that the Christian life, portrayed as a race `{{G5143}}`, is subject to external opposition designed to "beat back" a believer's progress. The question "who did **hinder** you?" points to an external agent causing this check.
* **Deviation from Truth:** The hindrance is directly linked to a failure to **obey** `{{G3982}}` the truth. This shows that spiritual obstruction is not merely about slowing down, but about being actively turned away from adherence to core doctrine.
* **Accountability and Discernment:** The question in [[Galatians 5:7]] serves as a call to accountability. It forces the believers to identify the source of the hindrance, highlighting the theological importance of discerning and resisting influences that impede one's walk of faith.
### Summary
In summary, while `{{G348}}` is a rare word, its single use in scripture provides a powerful and concise illustration of spiritual opposition. It defines hindrance not as a passive slowing but as an active "beating back" from a path of obedience. Paired with the metaphor of running a race, it serves as a critical warning about external forces that seek to divert believers from the truth they once ran toward so **well** [[Galatians 5:7]].
TRV