### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **antíthesis**, represented by `{{G477}}`, is defined as **opposition**, particularly in the sense of a conflict of theories. Its base is a compound of `ἀντί` (anti) and `τίθημι` (tithēmi), literally meaning to "set against." It appears only **1 time** across **1 unique verse** in the Bible, making its single usage highly specific and significant.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The sole appearance of `{{G477}}` is found in Paul's pastoral instruction to Timothy. In [[1 Timothy 6:20]], Timothy is urged to "keep that which is committed to thy trust, avoiding profane and vain babblings, and **oppositions** of science falsely so called." Here, **antíthesis** describes conflicting ideas or arguments that stand against the truth of the gospel. It is presented as a danger that must be actively avoided in order to guard the sacred trust of the faith.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words in its single context clarify the meaning of `{{G477}}`:
* `{{G1108}}` **gnōsis** (knowing (the act), i.e. (by implication) knowledge:--knowledge, science.): This is what the "oppositions" are tied to. The conflict is with a body of "knowledge" that is ultimately counterfeit, as it is described as "falsely so called."
* `{{G5581}}` **pseudṓnymos** (untruly named:--falsely so called.): This adjective directly modifies "knowledge," stressing that the intellectual systems being promoted in opposition to the faith are based on falsehood.
* `{{G1624}}` **ektrépō** (to deflect, i.e. turn away (literally or figuratively):--avoid, turn (aside, out of the way).): This is the prescribed action toward these oppositions. Timothy is not told to debate them, but to "avoid" or "turn away" from them entirely.
* `{{G2757}}` **kenophōnía** (empty sounding, i.e. fruitless discussion:--vain.): The term for "vain babblings" is paired with "oppositions," suggesting that these intellectual conflicts are empty, fruitless, and spiritually unprofitable [[1 Timothy 6:20]].
* `{{G3872}}` **parakatathḗkē** (something put down alongside, i.e. a deposit (sacred trust):--that (thing) which is committed (un-)to (trust).): This is what must be guarded from the threat of such oppositions. The conflict is an attack on the "sacred trust" given to Timothy.
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G477}}` is focused on the protection of sound doctrine.
* **Guarding the Deposit:** The primary theme is the defense of the "sacred trust" `{{G3872}}` committed to church leaders. The existence of "oppositions" necessitates a vigilant watchfulness `{{G5442}}` over the core truths of the faith.
* **Identifying Counterfeit Knowledge:** The term warns against intellectual pride and philosophies that position themselves against God's revealed truth. It distinguishes between true knowledge, such as the "knowledge of God" [[Romans 11:33]], and arguments that are "falsely so called" [[1 Timothy 6:20]].
* **The Danger of Fruitless Debate:** By linking oppositions with "profane and vain babblings" (`{{G952}}`, `{{G2757}}`), scripture characterizes such disputes as spiritually damaging and to be avoided, as they lead to "more ungodliness" [[2 Timothy 2:16]].
### Summary
In summary, while used only once, `{{G477}}` **antíthesis** serves as a potent term for doctrinal conflict. It is not a reference to healthy debate but to hostile and empty theories that are "set against" the foundational truths of the gospel. Its use in [[1 Timothy 6:20]] provides a clear command to guard the faith by turning away from baseless arguments that masquerade as knowledge, thereby preserving the integrity of the sacred trust given to believers.
TRV