### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **ouá**, represented by `{{G3758}}`, is a primary exclamation of surprise, defined as **"ah"**. It is a rare term, appearing only **1 times** across **1 unique verses** in the Bible. Its entire meaning is derived from this single, powerful context.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The sole appearance of `{{G3758}}` is in [[Mark 15:29]], during the crucifixion of Jesus. In this passage, those who **passed by** (`paraporeúomai`, `{{G3899}}`) **railed** (`blasphēméō`, `{{G987}}`) on him. They did this while **wagging** (`kinéō`, `{{G2795}}`) their **heads** (`kephalḗ`, `{{G2776}}`) and **saying** (`légō`, `{{G3004}}`), "**Ah**, thou that destroyest the temple, and buildest it in three days." The exclamation serves as an expression of mocking disbelief and scorn.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words in the surrounding text give depth to the exclamation **ouá**:
* `{{G987}}` **blasphēméō** (to vilify; specially, to speak impiously): This describes the nature of the taunt. The passersby were not just speaking, but actively blaspheming or railing on Jesus [[Mark 15:29]].
* `{{G2647}}` **katalýō** (to loosen down (disintegrate), i.e. (by implication) to demolish): This verb for "destroy" is the core of the accusation. The mockers challenge Jesus, saying "thou that **destroyest** the temple" [[Mark 15:29]].
* `{{G3485}}` **naós** (a fane, shrine, temple): The object of the taunt is the **temple**. While the mockers refer to the physical building, the word is used elsewhere to refer to Jesus's own body [[John 2:19]] and to believers as the **temple** of God [[1 Corinthians 3:16]].
* `{{G3618}}` **oikodoméō** (to be a house-builder, i.e. construct or (figuratively) confirm): This is the counterpart to demolition. The challenge to **build** it in three days highlights their disbelief in his power [[Mark 15:29]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G3758}}` is tied directly to its singular use as an expression of contempt at the cross.
* **A Cry of Scorn:** **Ouá** is the utterance of those who **passed by** (`paraporeúomai`, `{{G3899}}`) and reviled Christ, **wagging** (`kinéō`, `{{G2795}}`) their **heads** (`kephalḗ`, `{{G2776}}`) in derision [[Mark 15:29]]. It represents humanity's rejection of a suffering Messiah.
* **Irony of the Accusation:** The mockers' taunt about destroying the **temple** (`naós`, `{{G3485}}`) and rebuilding it in **three** (`treîs`, `{{G5140}}`) **days** (`hēméra`, `{{G2250}}`) is deeply ironic. They are unknowingly referencing Jesus's prophecy about his own death and resurrection, as He spoke of the **temple** of His body [[John 2:19]].
* **The Power in Weakness:** The use of **ouá** in a moment of ultimate vulnerability underscores the contrast between what the crowd saw and the reality of God's plan. While they **railed** (`blasphēméō`, `{{G987}}`), the very act they mocked—the destruction of the temple of His body—would become the foundation of salvation.
### Summary
In summary, `{{G3758}}` **ouá** is an exclamation whose significance is entirely defined by its context in [[Mark 15:29]]. As a cry of "Ah," it conveys the scorn and disbelief of those witnessing the crucifixion. The word is part of a specific taunt regarding the destruction and rebuilding of the temple, a statement the mockers misunderstood but which pointed directly to Christ's own death and resurrection. Though appearing only once, **ouá** captures the profound rejection Jesus faced on the cross.
TRV