### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **anéchomai**, represented by `{{G430}}`, means to hold oneself up against, or figuratively to put up with. It is often translated as **bear with**, **endure**, **forbear**, or **suffer**. Appearing 17 times across 14 unique verses, this word describes an active and often difficult patience in the face of provocation, weakness, or hardship.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In scripture, `{{G430}}` is used in several distinct contexts. Jesus uses it to express his frustration with a "faithless and perverse generation," asking, "how long shall I **suffer** you?" [[Matthew 17:17]]. Conversely, it is presented as a key Christian virtue, with believers commanded to be "forbearing{G430} one another{G240} in{G1722} love{G26}" [[Ephesians 4:2]] and to connect this forbearance with forgiveness [[Colossians 3:13]]. The word can also describe a negative tolerance, such as when the time comes when people will not **endure** sound doctrine [[2 Timothy 4:3]] or when the Corinthian church is chided for how easily they **bear with** those who preach a false gospel [[2 Corinthians 11:4]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the concept of enduring and suffering:
* `{{G5281}}` **hypomonḗ** (cheerful (or hopeful) endurance, constancy): This noun often describes the character quality that `{{G430}}` puts into action. Believers are praised for their `patience` `{{G5281}}` and `faith` `{{G4102}}` in the tribulations they `endure` `{{G430}}` [[2 Thessalonians 1:4]].
* `{{G3115}}` **makrothymía** (longanimity, i.e. (objectively) forbearance or (subjectively) fortitude): Frequently translated as longsuffering, this word is explicitly paired with `forbearing` `{{G430}}` as a foundational element of a life lived in humility and meekness [[Ephesians 4:2]].
* `{{G1375}}` **diōgmós** (persecution): This term often defines the specific hardship that requires endurance. The church in Thessalonica is commended for their faith and `patience` `{{G5281}}` in all their `persecutions` `{{G1375}}` that they `endure` `{{G430}}` [[2 Thessalonians 1:4]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G430}}` is significant for understanding Christian life and character.
* **Mutual Forbearance:** The word establishes a core principle for community life. Believers are called to actively **forbear** one another as a practical expression of love and as a necessary precursor to forgiveness [[Colossians 3:13]].
* **Perseverance in Hardship:** The act of enduring is directly tied to a believer's response to suffering for their faith. Paul states that when "being persecuted{G1377}, we **suffer it**{G430}" [[1 Corinthians 4:12]], framing endurance as a conscious response to opposition.
* **Discerning Patience:** The use of `{{G430}}` demonstrates that not all endurance is virtuous. While believers are to **bear with** each other's faults, Paul warns against using that same patience to **suffer** those who bring them into bondage, devour them, or preach another Jesus [[2 Corinthians 11:20]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G430}}` is a dynamic term that goes beyond passive tolerance. It signifies an active choice to "hold up against" a difficult person or situation. From Christ's suffering of human faithlessness to a vital command for believers to practice mutual forbearance, **anéchomai** is crucial for understanding Christian perseverance, the nature of love within the church, and the wisdom required to know what to endure.
TRV