### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **sébasma**, represented by `{{G4574}}`, refers to **something adored or an object of worship**. Derived from a related word meaning to adore, it can describe a god, an altar, or any focus of religious devotion. It appears **2 times** across **2 unique verses** in the Bible.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In its biblical usage, `{{G4574}}` is applied in two distinct contexts. In Athens, the Apostle Paul uses the term to describe the "devotions" he observed throughout the city, which included an altar to an unknown god [[Acts 17:23]]. Here, it refers to the physical objects and altars the Athenians used in their worship. In contrast, it is also used to describe the scope of a future rebellion, where a figure will oppose and exalt himself above everything that is called God or that is "worshipped" [[2 Thessalonians 2:4]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words provide a fuller picture of the concept of worship and opposition to it:
* `{{G333}}` **anatheōréō**: This verb means to "behold, consider" and describes Paul's action of attentively looking at the Athenian "devotions" [[Acts 17:23]].
* `{{G2151}}` **eusebéō**: Meaning "to worship" or "show piety," this is the action associated with a `{{G4574}}`. In Athens, Paul states he will declare the God they ignorantly "worship" [[Acts 17:23]].
* `{{G480}}` **antíkeimai**: Translated as "to oppose," this word describes the one who sets himself against God and every object that is "worshipped" [[2 Thessalonians 2:4]].
* `{{G5229}}` **hyperaíromai**: This means to "exalt self" or "raise oneself over." It is used to describe the ultimate act of pride by the figure who places himself above all that is worshipped [[2 Thessalonians 2:4]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G4574}}` is centered on the nature of worship, both true and false.
* **Objects of Human Devotion:** The term is used to classify the items of idolatry and misguided piety. Paul's observation of the Athenian "devotions" `{{G4574}}` serves as a starting point to introduce them to the one true God they did not know [[Acts 17:23]].
* **Target of Ultimate Rebellion:** In 2 Thessalonians, the word helps define the scope of eschatological arrogance. The man of sin opposes not only God `{{G2316}}` but also any `{{G4574}}`, or object of worship, demonstrating a desire to replace all forms of worship with the worship of himself [[2 Thessalonians 2:4]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G4574}}` is a specific term for an object of religious adoration. While its use is infrequent, it is significant. It describes the tangible "devotions" of those who do not know God, as seen in Acts, and it also defines the comprehensive target for the one who will oppose all worship in his effort to exalt himself above God. The word encapsulates both the physical focus of misguided worship and the spiritual concept of that which is due worship.
TRV