### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **periḯstēmi**, represented by `{{G4026}}`, is derived from περί and ἵστημι and means **to stand all around**. It appears **4 times** in **4 unique verses** and carries a dual meaning: it can refer to being a bystander standing near, or it can mean to keep away from something, to **avoid** or **shun** it.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In its biblical usage, `{{G4026}}` is applied in two distinct ways. In an instructional context, it is a command to keep away from harmful discourse. Paul urges Timothy to **shun** profane and vain babblings, as they lead to more ungodliness [[2 Timothy 2:16]]. Similarly, he instructs Titus to **avoid** foolish questions and contentions about the law, calling them unprofitable and vain [[Titus 3:9]]. In a literal sense, the word describes physical presence. In Acts, the Jews who accused Paul **stood round about** him [[Acts 25:7]], and in the Gospel of John, Jesus speaks for the benefit of the people who **stand by** [[John 11:42]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related Greek words clarify the nature of what is to be avoided or shunned:
* `{{G3474}}` **mōrós** (foolish): This describes the kind of questions to be avoided. The term means "dull or stupid... heedless... absurd" [[Titus 3:9]].
* `{{G952}}` **bébēlos** (profane): This is used to characterize the babblings that must be shunned, defined as "heathenish, wicked" [[2 Timothy 2:16]].
* `{{G2214}}` **zḗtēsis** (question): This refers to a "dispute or its theme," identifying the source of unprofitable arguments to be avoided [[Titus 3:9]].
* `{{G2054}}` **éris** (contentions): This word for "a quarrel... strife" is listed among the things to avoid, highlighting the divisive nature of such debates [[Titus 3:9]].
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of `{{G4026}}` is primarily practical, guiding believers in their conduct and focus.
* **Guarding Against Ungodliness:** The command to **shun** profane and vain babblings [[2 Timothy 2:16]] and **avoid** foolish questions [[Titus 3:9]] serves as a directive to protect one's faith from corruption. These activities are described as unprofitable and leading to "more ungodliness."
* **The Role of the Witness:** In its literal sense, the word underscores the importance of testimony. Jesus intentionally speaks for "the people which **stand by**" so that they might believe he was sent by God, highlighting the role of the bystander as a potential witness to divine truth [[John 11:42]].
* **The Nature of Opposition:** The term is also used to frame scenes of conflict. The accusers of Paul who **stood round about** him in court illustrate how physical presence can represent legal and spiritual opposition [[Acts 25:7]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G4026}}` is a versatile word that conveys both physical position and ethical action. On one hand, it literally depicts a person or group standing near, either as an observer or an accuser. On the other hand, it serves as a strong pastoral command to deliberately keep one's distance from fruitless and ungodly arguments. This word therefore defines not only one's place in a crowd but also one's spiritual posture toward a foolish world.
TRV