### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **paúō**, represented by `{{G3973}}`, is a primary verb that means to **stop**, **restrain**, **quit**, or **come to an end**. It appears **17 times** across **15 unique verses** in the Bible, signifying its use in contexts of both literal and figurative cessation.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In its literal sense, `{{G3973}}` is used to describe the end of an action, such as when Jesus had **left** speaking to Simon [[Luke 5:4]] or when the wind and the raging of the water **ceased** at His command [[Luke 8:24]]. The word also carries significant spiritual weight. The apostle Peter uses it to describe a definitive break from a sinful life, stating that he who has suffered in the flesh has **ceased** from sin [[1 Peter 4:1]]. Conversely, Paul uses the negative form to express persistent dedication, as he did **not cease** to pray for the Colossians [[Colossians 1:9]] and did **not cease** to warn the Ephesian elders [[Acts 20:31]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words expand upon the concept of stopping or the actions being stopped:
* `{{G2673}}` **katargéō**: This verb means to be rendered useless or to abolish. It is used alongside `{{G3973}}` when describing how prophecies shall **fail** and knowledge shall **vanish away**, just as tongues will **cease** [[1 Corinthians 13:8]].
* `{{G1127}}` **grēgoreúō**: Meaning to keep awake or watch, this word stands in contrast to ceasing. Paul links his refusal to **cease** warning the church with the command for them to **watch** [[Acts 20:31]].
* `{{G2980}}` **laléō**: Meaning to talk or utter words, this is an action that is often stopped. For example, Jesus had **left speaking** before instructing Simon to launch out into the deep [[Luke 5:4]], and false witnesses accused Stephen of not **ceasing to speak** blasphemous words [[Acts 6:13]].
* `{{G266}}` **hamartía**: This word for sin is directly connected to `{{G3973}}` in a key theological statement that one who has **suffered** `{{G3958}}` in the flesh has **ceased** from **sin** [[1 Peter 4:1]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G3973}}` is demonstrated in several important concepts:
* **Spiritual Transformation:** The word marks a decisive break from a past life. The instruction to **arm** `{{G3695}}` oneself with the mind of Christ is tied to the reality that a believer has **ceased** from **sin** `{{G266}}` through suffering [[1 Peter 4:1]].
* **Persistent Ministry:** The negative construction "cease not" highlights unwavering devotion. Paul's commitment is shown when he tells believers he does not **cease** to pray for them [[Colossians 1:9]] and that for three years he did not **cease** to **warn** `{{G3560}}` them [[Acts 20:31]].
* **Divine Authority:** The power of Jesus is revealed when he rebukes the wind and water and they **ceased** [[Luke 8:24]]. It is also used in direct confrontation with evil, as when Paul asks an **enemy** `{{G2190}}` of righteousness, "wilt thou not **cease** to **pervert** `{{G1294}}` the right ways of the Lord?" [[Acts 13:10]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G3973}}` is a dynamic verb that communicates a stop or conclusion. It is applied literally to physical actions and natural forces, but its greater significance lies in its theological applications. It defines the believer's call to cease from sin, the unyielding nature of apostolic prayer and ministry, and the absolute authority of God to command an end to chaos and opposition.
TRV