### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **antídikos**, represented by `{{G476}}`, defines an **adversary** or an opponent in a lawsuit. It appears **5 times** across **4 unique verses** in the Bible. This term is used to describe a human opponent in a legal setting and is also used specially to identify Satan as the arch-enemy.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In scripture, `{{G476}}` is primarily found in contexts of legal or personal conflict. In [[Matthew 5:25]] and [[Luke 12:58]], it refers to a literal opponent in a lawsuit, warning believers to **agree** `{{G2132}}` or show **diligence** `{{G2039}}` to be reconciled, lest the **adversary** deliver them to the **judge** `{{G2923}}` and then to an **officer** (`{{G5257}}`, `{{G4233}}`) for imprisonment `{{G5438}}`. The term is also used when a widow petitions a judge, saying, "**Avenge** `{{G1556}}` me of mine **adversary**" [[Luke 18:3]]. In a spiritual sense, [[1 Peter 5:8]] identifies "your **adversary** the **devil** `{{G1228}}`" as a **roaring** `{{G5612}}` **lion** `{{G3023}}` who seeks to **devour** `{{G2666}}` believers.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words clarify the role and context of an **adversary**:
* `{{G1228}}` **diábolos** (devil): This word is explicitly equated with the **adversary** in [[1 Peter 5:8]]. Its definition as a "traducer" or "slanderer" expands on the nature of this spiritual opponent.
* `{{G2923}}` **kritḗs** (judge): This is the authority figure before whom a legal **adversary** brings a case. The goal of reconciliation is to avoid facing the **judge** ([[Matthew 5:25]], [[Luke 12:58]]).
* `{{G1556}}` **ekdikéō** (avenge): This term describes the action sought against an **adversary**. The widow in [[Luke 18:3]] asks the judge to vindicate her from her opponent.
* `{{G1127}}` **grēgoreúō** (be vigilant, watch): This is the prescribed response to the spiritual **adversary**. Believers are commanded to be watchful because of the threat posed by the devil [[1 Peter 5:8]].
### Theological Significance
The word `{{G476}}` carries significant weight in both civil and spiritual contexts.
* **Reconciliation in Conflict:** The use of **adversary** in [[Matthew 5:25]] and [[Luke 12:58]] underscores the importance of resolving disputes quickly. It frames personal conflict in legal terms, where failure to reconcile can lead to severe consequences like imprisonment.
* **The Nature of Spiritual Opposition:** By identifying the **devil** `{{G1228}}` as the **adversary**, [[1 Peter 5:8]] defines the Christian life as one involving active spiritual opposition. This enemy is not passive but is portrayed as a predatory **lion** `{{G3023}}` actively seeking to **devour** `{{G2666}}` the faithful.
* **The Need for Vigilance:** The presence of a spiritual **adversary** necessitates a state of constant readiness. The command to be **sober** `{{G3525}}` and **vigilant** `{{G1127}}` is a direct consequence of the danger this opponent represents [[1 Peter 5:8]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G476}}` serves as a crucial term for understanding opposition. It spans the spectrum from a human opponent in a lawsuit, where reconciliation is paramount [[Matthew 5:25]], to the spiritual **adversary** of all believers, the **devil** [[1 Peter 5:8]]. The word illustrates that believers face conflicts that are both earthly and spiritual, demanding responses of reconciliation in one case and sober vigilance in the other.
TRV