### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **pathētós**, represented by `{{G3805}}`, means to be **liable (i.e. doomed) to experience pain**, or to **suffer**. This term is exceptionally specific, appearing only **1 time** in **1 unique verse** in the entire Bible, highlighting its focused and critical theological role.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The single appearance of `{{G3805}}` is in [[Acts 26:23]], where Paul summarizes the prophetic message concerning the Messiah. He states that it was necessary "that Christ should **suffer**." In this pivotal statement, the suffering of Christ is not presented as a tragic accident, but as a foundational and prophesied truth. This suffering is immediately linked to His resurrection from the dead and His mission to bring light to both the people of Israel and to the Gentiles.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words from its sole context in [[Acts 26:23]] illuminate the meaning of `{{G3805}}`:
* `{{G5547}}` **Christós** (anointed, i.e. the Messiah, an epithet of Jesus:--Christ): This is the subject of the suffering. The use of `{{G3805}}` defines a core aspect of the Messiah's identity and mission.
* `{{G386}}` **anástasis** (a standing up again, i.e. (literally) a resurrection from death): This is the direct outcome of the suffering. The verse presents resurrection as the necessary event following the fulfillment of Christ being "doomed to experience pain."
* `{{G3498}}` **nekrós** (dead): This specifies the state from which Christ would rise, emphasizing the reality of the death he experienced as part of his suffering. His resurrection from the **dead** is a central theme [[1 Peter 1:3]].
* `{{G2605}}` **katangéllō** (to proclaim, promulgate:--declare, preach, shew, speak of, teach): This defines the purpose that flows from the suffering and resurrection. After these events, Christ would **shew**, or proclaim, light to the world.
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G3805}}` is immense, despite its single use. It establishes several key doctrines:
* **The Necessity of Atoning Suffering:** The term frames the suffering of **Christ** `{{G5547}}` as a required component of His work. It was not an option but an essential part of the divine plan that Paul would **preach** `{{G2605}}` to others [[Acts 13:38]].
* **Suffering Linked to Resurrection:** `{{G3805}}` is inextricably tied to the **resurrection** `{{G386}}` from the **dead** `{{G3498}}`. The grammar of [[Acts 26:23]] presents a sequence: suffering is the prerequisite for being the first to rise.
* **Foundation for the Gospel Message:** The declaration that Christ was liable to **suffer** forms the basis of the message proclaimed to all nations. It is the core truth that brings "light" to the people and the Gentiles.
### Summary
In summary, `{{G3805}}` is a concise and powerful word that encapsulates a central mystery of the Christian faith. Its solitary mention in [[Acts 26:23]] defines the Messiah's path as one that must pass through suffering. This divinely ordained suffering is not an end in itself, but the necessary precursor to the victory of the **resurrection** `{{G386}}` and the subsequent proclamation of salvation to the entire world.
TRV