### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **paraphronía**, represented by `{{G3913}}`, is a term for **madness**. It appears only **1 time** across **1 unique verse** in the Bible. The word's base definition describes a state of insanity or foolhardiness, highlighting a severe deviation from right thinking and behavior.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The single biblical use of `{{G3913}}` occurs in a stark warning against false teachers. It is used to describe the condition of a prophet who was rebuked for his transgression. In this context, a "dumb ass speaking with man's voice forbad the **madness** of the prophet" [[2 Peter 2:16]]. The word is employed here to characterize the prophet's actions as a form of irrational and reckless insanity, so profound that it required a supernatural intervention to be stopped.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words found in its only context help clarify its meaning:
* `{{G3892}}` **paranomía** (iniquity): This word, meaning transgression, is presented as the direct cause of the madness. The verse states the prophet was rebuked for his **iniquity**, which then led to the description of his subsequent actions as **madness** [[2 Peter 2:16]].
* `{{G4396}}` **prophḗtēs** (prophet): This term identifies the person exhibiting the madness. It is significant because a **prophet** is meant to be an inspired speaker for God, making the charge of **madness** `{{G3913}}` exceptionally severe and ironic.
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G3913}}` is concentrated in its sole appearance, where it delivers a powerful message.
* **Spiritual Insanity:** The term frames severe spiritual and moral rebellion not just as a mistake, but as a form of madness. It is a state of being so disconnected from divine reason that one's actions become utterly foolish.
* **Accountability for Leaders:** By applying this word to a "prophet" `{{G4396}}`, the scripture emphasizes that those in positions of spiritual authority are not immune to profound moral failure. Their sin is characterized as a dangerous foolhardiness.
* **Divine Rebuke:** The context shows that this "madness" was so extreme that God used an unnatural event—a talking animal—to forbid it, illustrating the gravity of the prophet's iniquity [[2 Peter 2:16]].
### Summary
In summary, **paraphronía** `{{G3913}}` is a specific and potent word for **madness**. Though used only once, its placement in scripture is highly impactful. It serves as a sharp condemnation of a prophet's sinful foolhardiness, linking his **madness** directly to his **iniquity**. The term powerfully illustrates that rebellion against God is the ultimate form of insanity, one that may provoke extraordinary divine intervention.
TRV