### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **analískō**, represented by `{{G355}}`, means to **use up** or **destroy**. Derived from ἀνά and a form of αἱρέομαι, its core meaning is to consume something completely. Though it appears only **3 times** in **3 unique verses**, its usage is potent, describing a final and total destruction in different contexts.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In its biblical appearances, `{{G355}}` is used to illustrate different forms of destruction. In Luke, the disciples James and John ask if they should call down fire from heaven to **consume** those who rejected them, mirroring an act by Elias [[Luke 9:54]]. Paul uses the term metaphorically in his letter to the Galatians, warning that if they "bite and devour one another," they risk being **consumed** by each other, highlighting the self-destructive nature of internal conflict [[Galatians 5:15]]. Finally, it describes the ultimate fate of "that Wicked," whom the Lord will **consume** with the spirit of His mouth at His coming [[2 Thessalonians 2:8]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the scope of destruction conveyed by `{{G355}}`:
* `{{G2719}}` **katesthíō**: Meaning "to eat down, i.e. devour (literally or figuratively)." It is used alongside `{{G355}}` in [[Galatians 5:15]], where believers are warned not to **devour** one another lest they be consumed. This word emphasizes the aggressive, consuming nature of the conflict.
* `{{G2673}}` **katargéō**: Defined as "to be (render) entirely idle (useless)... destroy, do away." In [[2 Thessalonians 2:8]], the Lord will **consume** `{{G355}}` the Wicked one and also **destroy** `{{G2673}}` him, indicating a complete and total end that renders him useless and without effect.
* `{{G4750}}` **stóma**: This word for **mouth** is the source of the consuming power in [[2 Thessalonians 2:8]], where the Lord destroys evil with the spirit of His **mouth**. This connects the act of ultimate destruction to the power of the divine word.
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G355}}` is focused on the finality of destruction, whether by divine judgment or human action.
* **Divine Judgment:** The word is used to describe God's ultimate eschatological victory over evil. The Lord's ability to **consume** the Wicked one with just the spirit of His mouth demonstrates the effortless and absolute nature of His sovereign power [[2 Thessalonians 2:8]].
* **Destructive Power of Conflict:** Paul's use of `{{G355}}` serves as a stark warning to the church. The image of being mutually **consumed** illustrates that internal strife, if unchecked, does not just cause harm but leads to the complete obliteration of fellowship and community from within [[Galatians 5:15]].
* **Misappropriation of Power:** The disciples' request to **consume** their enemies with fire shows a human desire to wield divine power for personal vengeance. This stands in contrast to the righteous and purposeful judgment of God [[Luke 9:54]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G355}}` is a powerful, though infrequent, term for complete destruction. It signifies being entirely "used up" or annihilated. From the eschatological demise of evil by the word of the Lord to the self-inflicted ruin of a community engaged in conflict, **analískō** conveys a sense of absolute finality. It serves as both a promise of God's ultimate justice and a sober warning against the destructive potential of human sin.
TRV