### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **peîra**, represented by `{{G3984}}`, conveys the idea of a test or experience. Derived from a root meaning "to pierce," it is defined as a test, attempt, or experience. It appears only **2 times** across **2 unique verses** in the Bible, making each usage significant.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In its biblical usage, `{{G3984}}` is employed in two distinct contexts within the same chapter. In Hebrews, it describes the severe experiences of the faithful, who endured a **trial** of mockings and scourgings [[Hebrews 11:36]]. This highlights a test of endurance and faith through suffering. The word is also used to describe the Egyptians' attempt to cross the Red Sea, an action referred to as an **assaying** which, lacking the faith of the Israelites, resulted in their destruction [[Hebrews 11:29]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words appear alongside `{{G3984}}` in [[Hebrews 11:36]], detailing the nature of the trial faced by believers:
* `{{G1701}}` **empaigmós** (mocking): This word for derision specifies one form of the trial.
* `{{G3148}}` **mástix** (scourgings): This term refers to a whip or plague, indicating the physical suffering involved in the trial.
* `{{G1199}}` **desmón** (bonds): This describes the physical restraint and shackles endured as part of their experience.
* `{{G5438}}` **phylakḗ** (imprisonment): This word for guarding or a prison denotes the loss of freedom faced by those undergoing the trial.
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G3984}}` is centered on the nature of testing and faith.
* **Experience as a Test of Faith:** The word is used to frame suffering not as a random event, but as a **trial** that serves as a test of one's convictions. The faithful in Hebrews endured mockings, scourgings, bonds, and imprisonment as part of this experience [[Hebrews 11:36]].
* **The Futility of Faithless Attempts:** `{{G3984}}` also distinguishes between a test of faith and a faithless attempt. The Egyptians' **assaying** to cross the Red Sea was a test they failed, demonstrating that a human attempt without divine backing leads to ruin [[Hebrews 11:29]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G3984}}` is a concise yet powerful term that encapsulates the concept of testing. Though used sparingly, its appearance in Hebrews draws a sharp contrast between the difficult **trial** of faith, which believers endure, and the disastrous failure of a human **assaying** undertaken without faith. It illustrates that the same action—a test or attempt—yields profoundly different outcomes based on the presence or absence of faith.
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