### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **poleméō**, represented by `{{G4170}}`, means to be engaged in warfare or to battle. Derived from the word πόλεμος (pólemos), it describes the act of fighting or making war, both literally and figuratively. It appears **7 times** across **6 unique verses**, primarily in the book of Revelation, where it depicts conflicts of cosmic and eschatological significance.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In its scriptural usage, `{{G4170}}` is central to describing spiritual conflict. In Revelation, it portrays the great battle in heaven where **Michael** `{{G3413}}` and his angels **fought** against the **dragon** `{{G1404}}` [[Revelation 12:7]]. The term is also used to describe the final opposition to God's authority, as earthly powers "shall **make war** with the **Lamb** `{{G721}}`" [[Revelation 17:14]]. Conversely, it depicts divine judgment, as Christ, the Faithful and True rider, "doth judge and **make war**" in righteousness [[Revelation 19:11]]. In a figurative sense, James uses the term to describe the source of human conflict, stating that people **war** because of their internal lusts [[James 4:2]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the concept of warfare and conflict:
* `{{G4171}}` **pólemos**: This is the noun form from which `{{G4170}}` is derived, meaning **warfare** or **battle**. It often sets the stage for the action of fighting, as seen when "there was **war** in heaven" [[Revelation 12:7]].
* `{{G3164}}` **máchomai**: This verb means to **war**, quarrel, or dispute. It is used alongside `{{G4170}}` in James to emphasize the contentious nature of human strife driven by sinful desires [[James 4:2]].
* `{{G3528}}` **nikáō**: Meaning to **conquer** or **overcome**, this word frequently appears as the outcome of the conflicts where `{{G4170}}` is used. For example, after the kings **make war** with the Lamb, the Lamb will **overcome** them [[Revelation 17:14]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G4170}}` is significant, highlighting the reality of spiritual and moral battle.
* **Cosmic and Spiritual Warfare:** The word establishes a clear delineation between opposing spiritual forces. The conflict between Michael and the dragon is a pivotal event where both sides **fought** [[Revelation 12:7]]. This theme continues when the followers of the beast are asked, "who is able to **make war** with him?" [[Revelation 13:4]].
* **Eschatological Battle:** `{{G4170}}` is used to describe the final, decisive confrontation between good and evil. Christ returns to **make war** in righteousness [[Revelation 19:11]], and the kings of the earth **make war** against the Lamb in a final act of rebellion [[Revelation 17:14]].
* **Divine Judgment:** The act of warring is not limited to evil forces. Christ warns the church in Pergamos that he will **fight** against them with the **sword** `{{G4501}}` of his mouth, signifying judgment against unrepentance [[Revelation 2:16]].
* **The Origin of Conflict:** The use of `{{G4170}}` in James connects external warfare to the internal state of the human heart. Lusts (**epithyméō**, `{{G1937}}`) and desires (**zēlóō**, `{{G2206}}`) are identified as the source of the fighting and **warring** among people [[James 4:2]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G4170}}` provides the language for understanding conflict in the Bible on multiple levels. While its most prominent use in Revelation points to a literal, spiritual, and eschatological battle, its appearance in James grounds the concept in the moral struggles that originate within the human heart. The word powerfully illustrates the ongoing warfare between divine righteousness and rebellious forces, both in the heavenly realm and in human experience.
TRV