### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **anthrōpoktónos**, represented by `{{G443}}`, is defined as a **manslayer** or **murderer**. This term is formed from the words for man (ἄνθρωπος) and to kill. It is a potent and specific term that appears **3 times** across **2 unique verses**, highlighting its significant but focused use in scripture.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In its biblical usage, `{{G443}}` is applied in two distinct but related contexts. In [[John 8:44]], the devil is explicitly called a **murderer** "from the beginning," linking the origin of murder to his very nature. This verse also associates this murderous character with being a **liar** `{{G5583}}` who does not abide in the truth. The concept is then expanded in [[1 John 3:15]], where anyone who **hateth** `{{G3404}}` his **brother** `{{G80}}` is identified as a **murderer**. This passage clarifies that the state of being a **murderer** is incompatible with having eternal life.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words provide crucial context for the meaning of `{{G443}}`:
* `{{G1228}}` **diábolos** (devil): This term identifies the original **murderer**. Scripture states, "He was a **murderer** from the beginning" [[John 8:44]], directly linking this entity to the act.
* `{{G3404}}` **miséō** (to detest, hate): This word defines the internal state that is equated with being a **murderer**. The act of hating a brother is what constitutes one as a **murderer** in God's eyes [[1 John 3:15]].
* `{{G80}}` **adelphós** (brother): This term identifies the relational context in which the sin of being a **murderer** is defined. It is the one who "hateth his **brother**" who is guilty of this charge [[1 John 3:15]].
* `{{G746}}` **archḗ** (beginning): This word establishes the timeline for the devil's character as a **murderer**, indicating this has been his nature from the very **beginning** [[John 8:44]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G443}}` is profound, connecting the act of murder to its spiritual roots.
* **The Character of the Devil:** The term is first used to define the nature of the **devil** `{{G1228}}`, establishing him as the originator of murder and lies, which are his inherent characteristics [[John 8:44]].
* **Murder as a Matter of the Heart:** The application of `{{G443}}` is extended from a physical act to an internal disposition. To **hate** `{{G3404}}` is to be a **murderer**, showing that the sin begins in the heart [[1 John 3:15]].
* **Exclusion from Eternal Life:** Scripture explicitly states that no **murderer** has eternal life abiding in him, underscoring the severe spiritual consequence of both the act and the hateful condition it represents [[1 John 3:15]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G443}}` transcends its literal definition of a **manslayer**. It is a term that reveals a deep theological truth: murder is not merely a physical crime but a spiritual condition rooted in hatred and deception, epitomized by the character of the devil. The Bible uses this word to warn that such a heart-state is fundamentally opposed to the nature of God and incompatible with the promise of eternal life.
TRV