### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **ánthrax**, represented by `{{G440}}`, refers to **a live coal**. It appears only **1 times** across **1 unique verses** in the Bible, making its sole usage highly significant. The term is defined as a "coal of fire" and is part of a powerful metaphor regarding the treatment of one's enemies.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The single biblical occurrence of `{{G440}}` is found in [[Romans 12:20]]. The verse instructs believers on how to respond to an adversary in need: "if thine enemy hunger, feed him; if he thirst, give him drink." The text states that this act of kindness will "heap **coals** of fire on his head" [[Romans 12:20]]. The word is used not as a literal object but as part of a figurative expression that describes the result of showing mercy instead of retaliation.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words provide context for the verse in which `{{G440}}` appears:
* `{{G4442}}` **pŷr** (fire): This word is used in direct conjunction with `{{G440}}` to form the phrase "coals of fire" [[Romans 12:20]]. It is also used figuratively throughout scripture to denote trial [[1 Peter 1:7]], judgment [[Revelation 21:8]], and the Holy Spirit [[Matthew 3:11]].
* `{{G3983}}` **peináō** (to famish; figuratively, to crave): This term describes the hunger of the enemy that prompts the believer's act of mercy [[Romans 12:20]]. It is also used to describe a spiritual craving for righteousness [[Matthew 5:6]].
* `{{G1372}}` **dipsáō** (to thirst for): Paired with hunger, this word establishes the enemy's need. The command is to provide drink if an enemy is thirsty [[Romans 12:20]]. The term is also used to describe a spiritual thirst that only Christ can quench [[John 7:37]].
* `{{G5595}}` **psōmízō** (to supply with bits, i.e. (generally) to nourish): This is the prescribed action for a hungry enemy, translated as "feed" [[Romans 12:20]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G440}}` is entirely contained within its single, impactful use in scripture. It highlights a core tenet of Christian ethics.
* **Mercy Towards Enemies:** The context for heaping "coals of fire" is an act of proactive kindness. It is a direct command to meet the basic needs of an enemy by providing food for hunger `{{G3983}}` and drink for thirst `{{G1372}}`.
* **Figurative Consequence:** The act of heaping coals `{{G440}}` of fire `{{G4442}}` is presented as the direct consequence of showing this unexpected mercy [[Romans 12:20]]. The image is powerful, linking a compassionate action to a fiery outcome.
* **Overcoming Evil with Good:** This specific instruction is part of a larger theme of non-retaliation. The act of kindness, which results in the heaping of coals, is a method for transforming a hostile situation through benevolent action.
### Summary
In summary, `{{G440}}` is a rare but potent word in the New Testament. Its sole appearance in [[Romans 12:20]] defines its meaning entirely within the context of radical enemy love. Rather than a tool of punishment, the **ánthrax**, or live coal, serves as a powerful metaphor for the profound and transformative effect that an unexpected act of mercy can have on an adversary.
TRV