### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek adverb **pollákis**, represented by `{{G4178}}`, means **many times** or **frequently**. It is derived from `{{G4183}}` **polýs** (many) and appears **18 times** across **16 unique verses** in the Bible. This word is used to emphasize the recurring nature of an action or experience, whether it be hardship, ministry, or religious ritual.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the New Testament, `{{G4178}}` is used in several key contexts. It quantifies the immense suffering endured by the apostles, with Paul recounting that he was in deaths **oft** [[2 Corinthians 11:23]], in journeyings **often** [[2 Corinthians 11:26]], and in watchings and fastings **often** [[2 Corinthians 11:27]]. It also describes the persistent nature of affliction, such as the boy who **ofttimes** falls into the fire [[Matthew 17:15]] or the demoniac who had been **often** bound with chains [[Mark 5:4]]. Beyond hardship, it highlights the regularity of ministry and fellowship, as Paul **oftentimes** purposed to visit the believers in Rome [[Romans 1:13]] and Jesus **ofttimes** met with his disciples in a particular place [[John 18:2]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words provide context for the frequency described by **pollákis**:
* `{{G4183}}` **polýs** (many): As the root word, it establishes the concept of multiplicity. Paul uses it to warn of the **many** who walk as enemies of the cross, whom he has told them about **often** [[Philippians 3:18]].
* `{{G530}}` **hápax** (once): This adverb serves as a direct theological counterpoint to **pollákis**. It emphasizes the finality of Christ’s sacrifice, which was performed **once**, unlike the Old Covenant sacrifices that were offered **often** [[Hebrews 9:26]].
* `{{G2794}}` **kíndynos** (peril): This noun is used repeatedly with **pollákis** to specify the frequent dangers Paul faced, such as "in **perils** of waters" and "in **perils** by the heathen" during his journeys [[2 Corinthians 11:26]].
* `{{G3958}}` **páschō** (to suffer): This verb is often the action being quantified. Christ did not have to **suffer** often to put away sin [[Hebrews 9:26]], while a boy afflicted by a spirit was described as being sore **vexed** [[Matthew 17:15]].
### Theological Significance
The conceptual weight of `{{G4178}}` is significant, highlighting key theological truths.
* **The Endurance of Ministry:** The word quantifies the relentless nature of apostolic hardship. Paul's list of being in deaths **oft** [[2 Corinthians 11:23]] or in weariness and painfulness **often** [[2 Corinthians 11:27]] serves as a testament to the cost of his ministry.
* **The Sufficiency of Christ's Sacrifice:** The word is critical in Hebrews to argue for the superiority of the New Covenant. The Old Testament priests had to offer sacrifices **oftentimes** [[Hebrews 10:11]], an action implying incompleteness. In contrast, Christ’s singular act means He did not need to suffer **often** [[Hebrews 9:26]], demonstrating His final and complete atonement.
* **The Persistence of Opposition:** The term describes the recurring nature of both spiritual and human opposition. It characterizes the torment of the boy who **ofttimes** falls into fire [[Matthew 17:15]] and Paul's need to **often** punish and compel blasphemers in the synagogues [[Acts 26:11]].
* **The Pattern of Fellowship:** On a positive note, **pollákis** also defines the rhythm of faithful community. It describes the consistent encouragement Paul received from Onesiphorus, who **oft** refreshed him [[2 Timothy 1:16]], and the regular meeting place Jesus shared with His disciples [[John 18:2]].
### Summary
In summary, **pollákis** functions as more than a simple measure of time. It is a tool used to convey the weight of apostolic suffering, the persistence of spiritual conflict, and the steadfastness of fellowship. Most significantly, it stands in contrast to the finality of Christ's work, highlighting the difference between the repeated rituals of the Old Covenant and the singular, sufficient sacrifice that defines the New. The word illustrates how the concept of frequency can reveal profound truths about endurance, atonement, and faithfulness.
TRV