### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **ololýzō**, represented by `{{G3649}}`, is a primary verb that means to **howl** or shriek. It is a very rare term in scripture, appearing only **1 time** in **1 unique verse**. Its singular use conveys a powerful and intense expression of outcry or lamentation.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The sole biblical appearance of `{{G3649}}` is in [[James 5:1]], where it is issued as a stark command: "Go to now, ye **rich men**, weep and **howl** for your miseries that shall come upon you." In this context, the act of howling is not a spontaneous cry but a directive given to the wealthy. It is presented as the appropriate response to the certain and impending calamities they are destined to face.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words in the verse help clarify the meaning and context of `{{G3649}}`:
* `{{G2799}}` **klaíō** (to sob, i.e. wail aloud): This word is paired directly with `{{G3649}}` in the command to "**weep** and howl," indicating a deep and audible expression of grief. It is elsewhere used to describe the sorrow the disciples will feel [[John 16:20]].
* `{{G5004}}` **talaipōría** (wretchedness, i.e. calamity): This term defines the cause of the howling. The rich are to lament because of their coming **miseries**. This word is also associated with ruin in the phrase "Destruction and **misery** are in their ways" [[Romans 3:16]].
* `{{G4145}}` **ploúsios** (wealthy; figuratively, abounding with): This identifies the specific group addressed in the warning. The command to howl is for the **rich**, who are elsewhere warned not to trust in "uncertain riches" [[1 Timothy 6:17]].
* `{{G1904}}` **epérchomai** (to supervene, i.e. arrive, occur, impend, attack): This verb describes the action of the miseries that "shall **come upon**" the rich, conveying a sense of unavoidable arrival, similar to how the Holy Ghost is said to **come upon** believers [[Acts 1:8]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G3649}}` is concentrated in its single, powerful usage.
* **An Expression of Impending Judgment:** The command to **howl** is not a suggestion but a prophetic imperative. It signals that the judgment facing the rich is so certain and severe that the time for repentance has passed, and only lamentation remains.
* **A Warning Against Materialism:** By directing this cry of despair at **rich men** `{{G4145}}` because of their coming **miseries** `{{G5004}}`, the passage connects worldly wealth with spiritual catastrophe. The howl is the ultimate result of a life built on a foundation other than God.
* **Visceral Reaction to Calamity:** The word itself, meaning to shriek or howl, implies an uncontrolled, visceral cry of anguish. It portrays a future completely devoid of hope, where the only possible reaction is one of utter desolation.
### Summary
In summary, `{{G3649}}` is far more than a simple descriptor of a sound. In its single biblical context, it serves as a solemn command to **howl** in the face of inescapable judgment. Directed at the rich in [[James 5:1]], it functions as a powerful warning, transforming a word for shrieking into a profound statement on the final outcome of misplaced faith in worldly security.
TRV