### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **perirrhḗgnymi**, represented by `{{G4048}}`, means to **rend off** or tear completely away. It appears **1 times** in **1 unique verses**, indicating its use for a specific and forceful action. The base definition, "to tear all around, i.e. completely away," shows it is derived from the combination of περί and ῥήγνυμι.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The single biblical occurrence of `{{G4048}}` is found in a moment of intense conflict and punishment. In this context, the **magistrates** ordered the forceful removal of garments from individuals before a beating. The verse states that the magistrates "rent off their clothes, and commanded to beat them," positioning the act as a violent prelude to further punishment [[Acts 16:22]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words from its sole context help illuminate the scene:
* `{{G4755}}` **stratēgós** (magistrate): This term for a governor or captain identifies the civil authorities who commanded the action. In the narrative, these **magistrates** are the ones who give the order to rend off the clothes [[Acts 16:22]].
* `{{G2440}}` **himátion** (clothes): This word refers to a garment or apparel. It is the object of the action, the **clothes** that are violently torn off the prisoners by the magistrates [[Acts 16:22]].
* `{{G4463}}` **rhabdízō** (to beat): This word, meaning to strike with a stick, describes the punishment that immediately follows the tearing of the clothes, showing a direct sequence of public shaming and physical discipline [[Acts 16:22]].
### Theological Significance
The significance of `{{G4048}}` is tied directly to its dramatic context of judgment and punishment.
* **Act of Public Shaming:** The act of tearing off clothes `{{G2440}}` serves as a public humiliation and prepares the individuals for physical punishment.
* **Execution of Civil Authority:** The action is performed by **magistrates** `{{G4755}}`, demonstrating an official and authoritative exercise of power against the accused. The use of `{{G4048}}` emphasizes the violence inherent in this judgment.
* **Prelude to Punishment:** Its placement in the narrative shows it is the first step in a sequence of punitive actions, immediately preceding the command **to beat** `{{G4463}}` the prisoners [[Acts 16:22]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G4048}}` is a rare but vivid term whose meaning is entirely defined by its singular use in scripture. It is not a broad theological concept but a specific descriptor of a violent act of stripping someone as part of a formal punishment. Its appearance in [[Acts 16:22]] captures a moment of severe judgment, illustrating how the tearing of clothes was used by authorities as an act of public degradation before inflicting a beating.
TRV