of uncertain affinity; a violent impulse, i.e. onset:--assault.
Transliteration:hormḗ
Pronunciation:hor-may'
Detailed Word Study
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek noun hormḗ (`{{G3730}}`) denotes a violent impulse, a sudden onset, or an impetuous rush. Its etymology is uncertain, but its semantic range consistently points to a powerful, often uncontrolled, and precipitous movement. It can describe a physical charge, a headlong rush, or an overwhelming surge. The term conveys a sense of urgency, force, and lack of restraint, often leading to an "assault" or a forceful advance. Unlike a deliberate, measured movement, hormḗ suggests an action driven by an immediate, potent urge, whether internal or external.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The term hormḗ (`{{G3730}}`) appears only once in the New Testament, specifically in the book of Acts.
In [[Acts 19:29]], the word describes the chaotic and violent reaction of the Ephesian crowd during the riot incited by Demetrius against Paul and his companions. The text states, "And the whole city was filled with confusion: and having caught Gaius and Aristarchus, men of Macedonia, Paul's companions in travel, they rushed with one accord into the theatre." Here, hormḗ encapsulates the sudden, collective, and uncontrolled surge of the mob into the theatre. It signifies an impulsive and forceful movement, driven by anger and confusion, rather than by reason or order. The scene vividly portrays the volatile nature of an unbridled crowd, whose actions are characterized by a headlong, almost animalistic, charge. This singular occurrence powerfully illustrates the destructive potential of human passion when left unchecked and directed against the truth of the Gospel.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several Greek terms share conceptual ground with hormḗ (`{{G3730}}`) by describing various forms of movement, force, or emotional intensity. Words like `{{G5342}}` (phero, to carry or bear, often implying movement), `{{G4169}}` (pneō, to blow, as wind, suggesting a powerful impetus), and `{{G979}}` (bia, force or violence) touch upon the element of forceful motion. In terms of impulsive or passionate action, hormḗ can be conceptually linked to `{{G2372}}` (thymos, passionate anger or wrath) and `{{G3709}}` (orgē, settled anger or indignation), as these emotions can often be the driving force behind a violent impulse or onset. The concept of a "mob mentality" or an "uncontrolled outburst" is central to understanding hormḗ in its biblical context, contrasting sharply with the Spirit-led order and peace that characterize the early Christian community.
### Theological Significance
While hormḗ (`{{G3730}}`) is not a term with inherent theological weight, its single New Testament occurrence carries significant theological implications. In [[Acts 19:29]], it serves as a powerful descriptor of the opposition faced by the nascent Christian movement. The "violent impulse" or "assault" of the crowd represents the irrational and often brutal resistance of the world to the message of Christ. This incident underscores the spiritual warfare in which the early church was engaged, where the forces of darkness could incite sudden, overwhelming, and destructive human passions. The hormḗ of the mob stands in stark contrast to the patient, reasoned, and Spirit-empowered proclamation of the apostles. It highlights the danger of unbridled human emotion and collective irrationality, which can lead to persecution and violence against God's people. The theological lesson here emphasizes the need for divine protection amidst worldly hostility and the stark difference between human passion and divine wisdom.
### Summary
The Greek term hormḗ (`{{G3730}}`) signifies a violent impulse, a sudden onset, or an impetuous rush. Its sole appearance in the New Testament at [[Acts 19:29]] vividly describes the uncontrolled and forceful movement of the Ephesian mob against Paul and his companions. This singular usage powerfully illustrates the destructive potential of unbridled human passion and collective irrationality when opposed to the truth of the Gospel. Hormḗ thus serves as a stark depiction of the worldly hostility and challenges faced by the early church, contrasting sharply with the Spirit-led order and peace that characterized the believers.
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