### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **hormḗ**, represented by `{{G3730}}`, describes a **violent impulse** or **onset**. It appears only **2 times** in **2 unique verses** in the Bible. Though rare, it conveys the idea of a powerful, driving force or a sudden rush to action, whether from a group of people or the will of an individual.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The uses of `{{G3730}}` highlight its dual nature as both a hostile force and a focused intention. In Acts, it is used to describe a planned, violent movement when Gentiles and Jews formed an **assault** with their rulers to harm the apostles and **stone** `{{G3036}}` them [[Acts 14:5]]. In contrast, James uses it to illustrate a point of control. He notes that even **so great** `{{G5082}}` a ship, **driven** `{{G1643}}` by **fierce** `{{G4642}}` winds, can be directed by a tiny **helm** `{{G4079}}` according to the impulse, or what the governor **listeth** `{{G3730}}`, of the one steering [[James 3:4]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the concept of impulse and control:
* `{{G1014}}` **boúlomai** (to "will," i.e. (reflexively) be willing): This word is used alongside `{{G3730}}` in [[James 3:4]] to emphasize that the impulse comes from a deliberate will. It is the internal intention that directs action, such as when God acts "of his own **will**" [[James 1:18]].
* `{{G1643}}` **elaúnō** (to push (as wind, oars or dæmonical power)): This describes the external force of the fierce winds that **drive** the ship [[James 3:4]]. It stands in contrast to the internal, guiding impulse of the governor.
* `{{G5195}}` **hybrízō** (to exercise violence, i.e. abuse): This specifies the nature of the "assault" in Acts. The impulse was not merely a movement but one intended to **use them despitefully** [[Acts 14:5]], showing the malevolent character of the onset.
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of `{{G3730}}` lies in its illustration of intent and its consequences.
* **The Power of Intent:** The word demonstrates how a strong impulse, whether from a mob or an individual, leads to significant outcomes. In Acts, a collective impulse moves toward violent persecution [[Acts 14:5]], while in James, a pilot's focused intent overcomes massive external forces [[James 3:4]].
* **Internal Will vs. External Force:** The contrast in [[James 3:4]] is a powerful metaphor. The great ships and fierce winds represent the powerful, seemingly uncontrollable circumstances of life, while the `hormḗ` of the governor represents the internal will or spiritual guidance that can direct one's path despite those pressures.
* **The Onset of Action:** `{{G3730}}` points to the critical starting point of an action. The assault in Acts began with this impulse, a unified decision to commit violence. This underscores the importance of the initial will or drive that sets a course of action in motion.
### Summary
In summary, **hormḗ** `{{G3730}}` is a focused term for a driving impulse. Though it appears only twice, it effectively portrays two sides of human will: a coordinated, hostile **assault** born from malice, and the precise, controlling intention of a pilot guiding a ship. It serves as a stark reminder that a powerful impulse, whether for good or for evil, is a decisive force that directs outcomes.
TRV