### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **sklērotráchēlos**, represented by `{{G4644}}`, is a figurative term for being **obstinate** or **stiffnecked**. It is derived from terms meaning "hard" and "nape" of the neck. This specific word appears only **1 time** in **1 unique verse** in the Bible, highlighting its specific and potent use.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The sole use of `{{G4644}}` is found in [[Acts 7:51]]. In this powerful address, Stephen rebukes his audience, calling them **stiffnecked** and **uncircumcised** in **heart** and **ears**. He accuses them of a continual pattern of resistance, stating they **always** `{{G104}}` **resist** `{{G496}}` the **Holy** `{{G40}}` **Ghost** `{{G4151}}`, just as their **fathers** `{{G3962}}` did. The term is used to describe a deep-seated and willful opposition to God.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words from its single context clarify the meaning of being stiffnecked:
* `{{G564}}` **aperítmētos** (uncircumcised): This word is used alongside `{{G4644}}` to describe a figurative state of being "uncircumcised in **heart** and **ears**," pointing to a spiritual condition rather than a physical one [[Acts 7:51]].
* `{{G496}}` **antipíptō** (to oppose): This term defines the action of the **stiffnecked**. They actively **resist** or **oppose** the **Holy Ghost**, demonstrating that their obstinacy is not passive [[Acts 7:51]].
* `{{G2588}}` **kardía** (heart): The rebellion is located in the **heart**, which figuratively represents "the thoughts or feelings." This highlights the internal nature of the obstinacy [[Acts 7:51]].
* `{{G3775}}` **oûs** (ear): Paired with the heart, the "uncircumcised" **ears** signify an unwillingness to hear or receive God's message [[Acts 7:51]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G4644}}` is significant, describing a profound spiritual failure.
* **A Condition of the Heart and Ears:** Being **stiffnecked** is equated with being **uncircumcised** `{{G564}}` in **heart** `{{G2588}}` and **ears** `{{G3775}}`, indicating a willful refusal to understand and receive God's truth [[Acts 7:51]].
* **Active Resistance to the Spirit:** The term is not one of simple stubbornness, but of actively and **always** `{{G104}}` resisting `{{G496}}` the work of the **Holy** `{{G40}}` **Ghost** `{{G4151}}`.
* **A Generational Pattern of Rebellion:** The charge of being **stiffnecked** connects the present generation's unbelief directly to the failures of their **fathers** `{{G3962}}`, showing it as a historical and repeated sin [[Acts 7:51]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G4644}}` provides a sharp and specific condemnation. It describes more than mere stubbornness; it defines a state of willful, spiritual obstinacy rooted in an uncircumcised **heart**. This condition leads to actively resisting the **Holy Ghost** and perpetuating a generational pattern of rebellion against God, as seen in its sole biblical use in [[Acts 7:51]].
TRV