### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **antidiatíthemai**, represented by `{{G475}}`, means to **set oneself opposite** or be disputatious. It is a very rare term, appearing only **1 time** in **1 unique verse** in the entire Bible. This specific usage describes those who are in opposition, captured in the phrase "those that **oppose themselves**."
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The single appearance of `{{G475}}` is found in [[2 Timothy 2:25]]. The verse outlines a specific approach for dealing with individuals in opposition: "In meekness instructing **those that oppose themselves**". This context links the act of opposing oneself with the need for gentle instruction, with the ultimate hope that God may grant them repentance leading to an acknowledgment of the truth. The word highlights a state of being set against truth, yet not beyond the reach of correction and divine grace.
### Related Words & Concepts
The context of `{{G475}}` in scripture is illuminated by several surrounding words:
* `{{G3811}}` **paideúō** (instructing): This word means to train, educate, or discipline. It is the action taken toward those in opposition, as seen in the command to be "instructing **those that oppose themselves**" [[2 Timothy 2:25]]. It also appears in contexts of teaching about godly living [[Titus 2:12]].
* `{{G4236}}` **praiótēs** (meekness): The instruction must be done with this quality, defined as gentleness or humility. This spirit of **meekness** is presented as the proper attitude for restoring someone [[Galatians 6:1]] and is a core Christian virtue [[Ephesians 4:2]].
* `{{G3341}}` **metánoia** (repentance): This is the potential result of gentle instruction. It signifies a reversal or compunction for guilt. God's desire is for all to come to **repentance** [[2 Peter 3:9]], and it is a central call of the gospel [[Matthew 9:13]].
* `{{G1922}}` **epígnōsis** (acknowledging): This term refers to recognition or full discernment. Repentance leads to the **acknowledging** of the truth [[2 Timothy 2:25]], a state which is God's will for all people [[1 Timothy 2:4]].
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of `{{G475}}` is entirely derived from its sole use in [[2 Timothy 2:25]], which establishes key principles for ministry and restoration.
* **Self-Defeating Opposition:** The phrase "those that **oppose themselves**" suggests that resisting the truth is a self-destructive act. The opposition is not merely external but internal, working against one's own potential for salvation and understanding.
* **Gentleness in Correction:** The prescribed response to this opposition is instruction delivered in **meekness** `{{G4236}}`. This underscores a theological mandate for gentle, patient teaching rather than combative argument when dealing with those in error.
* **Divine Initiative in Repentance:** The passage clarifies that human effort alone is insufficient. The hope for change rests on the possibility that **God** `{{G2316}}` will **give** `{{G1325}}` them **repentance** `{{G3341}}`. This frames repentance not as a human achievement but as a divine gift necessary for acknowledging the truth.
### Summary
In summary, `{{G475}}` **antidiatíthemai** is a highly specific term for being disputatious or setting oneself in opposition. Its single biblical appearance in [[2 Timothy 2:25]] provides a crucial instruction: that those who **oppose themselves** must be corrected with meekness. The term and its context teach a profound lesson about the nature of opposition to truth as a self-harming state, and that the path to restoration is paved with gentle instruction and a reliance on God's power to grant repentance.
TRV