### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **oligópsychos**, represented by `{{G3642}}`, describes one who is **little-spirited** or **faint-hearted**. The term is translated in scripture as **feebleminded**. It appears only **1 time** in **1 unique verse**, making its single biblical usage particularly instructive. The word is a compound of ὀλίγος (little) and ψυχή (spirit), directly pointing to a state of diminished courage or emotional fortitude.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The sole appearance of `{{G3642}}` is in [[1 Thessalonians 5:14]], where it is part of a series of instructions for the church. The verse commands believers to "comfort the **feebleminded**" [[1 Thessalonians 5:14]]. This places those who are faint-hearted in a category of individuals requiring specific, gentle care, distinct from the "unruly" who are to be warned and the "weak" who are to be supported. The context is an exhortation to the "brethren" on how to minister to one another within the community.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several words within its only context help clarify the role of the church toward the faint-hearted:
* `{{G3888}}` **paramythéomai** (to relate near, i.e. (by implication) encourage, console:--comfort): This is the specific action prescribed for those who are `{{G3642}}`. It calls for consolation and encouragement rather than rebuke [[1 Thessalonians 5:14]].
* `{{G772}}` **asthenḗs** (strengthless (in various applications, literal, figurative and moral):--more feeble, impotent, sick, without strength, weak(-er, -ness, thing)): This term describes the "weak," a group mentioned immediately after the "feebleminded." Both groups require supportive action from the community [[1 Thessalonians 5:14]].
* `{{G472}}` **antéchomai** (to hold oneself opposite to, i.e. (by implication) adhere to; by extension to care for:--hold fast, hold to, support): This is the command associated with the "weak." It implies a need to provide stability and care, a concept closely related to comforting the faint-hearted [[1 Thessalonians 5:14]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G3642}}` is found in its practical application for the Christian community.
* **Discernment in Ministry:** The instruction to "comfort the **feebleminded**" [[1 Thessalonians 5:14]] stands in contrast to the command to "warn them that are unruly" [[1 Thessalonians 5:14]]. This demonstrates the need for discernment in addressing different spiritual and emotional conditions within the church.
* **Corporate Responsibility:** The exhortation is given to the "brethren" [[1 Thessalonians 5:14]], indicating a collective duty to care for those who are faint-hearted. It is not just a leadership function but a responsibility shared by all believers.
* **A Mandate for Gentleness:** The command is framed within a larger call to "be patient toward all men" [[1 Thessalonians 5:14]]. This reinforces that the approach to the faint-hearted must be characterized by compassion, patience, and gentle encouragement.
### Summary
In summary, `{{G3642}}` is a highly specific term whose significance is derived entirely from its single context. While rare, its use in [[1 Thessalonians 5:14]] provides a clear and powerful mandate for how believers should treat those who are faint-hearted or "little-spirited." It establishes a model of compassionate, discerning care, instructing the church to comfort and encourage, as part of its collective responsibility to support all its members.
TRV