### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **pyretós**, represented by `{{G4446}}`, is the term for **fever**. It appears **6 times** across **6 unique verses** in the Bible. Derived from a word meaning "inflamed," it is used exclusively as a noun to describe a physical state of being feverish due to illness.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{G4446}}` consistently appears in the context of sickness and subsequent healing. In the Gospels, it describes the condition of Simon's mother-in-law, who was taken with a "great **fever**" [[Luke 4:38]]. Jesus's power over the ailment is shown when He "rebuked the **fever**" [[Luke 4:39]] or simply "touched her hand, and the **fever** left her" [[Matthew 8:15]]. A similar account notes that after His touch, "immediately the **fever** left her" [[Mark 1:31]]. The term is also used to describe the condition of an official's son [[John 4:52]] and the father of Publius, who was sick with a **fever** and a bloody flux [[Acts 28:8]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words provide context for the sickness and healing associated with **fever**:
* `{{G1420}}` **dysentería** (a "dysentery":--bloody flux): This term is used alongside **fever** to describe the compound illness afflicting the father of Publius, highlighting the severity of his condition [[Acts 28:8]].
* `{{G2390}}` **iáomai** (to cure (literally or figuratively):--heal, make whole): This verb describes the action taken against the **fever**. After Paul prayed, he **healed** Publius's father of his sickness [[Acts 28:8]].
* `{{G2866}}` **kompsóteron** (figuratively, convalescent:--+ began to amend): This word signifies the beginning of recovery from illness. An official asked at what hour his son, who had a **fever**, "began to **amend**" [[John 4:52]].
### Theological Significance
The use of `{{G4446}}` carries significance by demonstrating divine authority over physical infirmity.
* **Power over Sickness:** The healing of a **fever** is shown to be subject to supernatural power. Jesus is depicted as having direct command over the illness, "rebuking" it as one would a person or spirit [[Luke 4:39]].
* **Immediate Restoration:** The healings are characteristically immediate. Upon Jesus's intervention, the **fever** leaves "immediately" [[Mark 1:31]], and the healed person is restored to the point of being able to serve others [[Luke 4:39]].
* **Confirmation of Authority:** The departure of the **fever** serves as a sign. In the healing of the official's son, the fact that the **fever** left at the exact hour Jesus spoke confirms his authority even from a distance [[John 4:52]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G4446}}` is a specific medical term whose primary role in Scripture is to set the stage for a demonstration of divine power. While it literally means **fever**, its presence in the text serves to highlight the authority of Jesus and his apostles to **heal**, often instantly and completely. The word is not merely descriptive of an illness but is instrumental in narratives that validate spiritual power over the physical realm.
TRV