### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **antíkeimai**, represented by `{{G480}}`, is derived from ἀντί and κεῖμαι and means to lie opposite or be adverse to. It is used to describe an adversary or something that is contrary or in opposition. It appears **8 times** across **8 unique verses** in the Bible, highlighting its role in defining various forms of conflict and resistance.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In scripture, `{{G480}}` is used to illustrate several types of opposition. It defines the fundamental spiritual conflict within a believer, where the flesh and the Spirit are described as **contrary** to one another [[Galatians 5:17]]. The term also refers to human opponents of the faithful. Jesus promises his followers wisdom that all their **adversaries** will be unable to resist [[Luke 21:15]], and the apostle Paul notes that though a great door is opened to him, there are many **adversaries** [[1 Corinthians 16:9]]. The word can also describe opposition to divine truth, such as anything that is **contrary** to sound doctrine [[1 Timothy 1:10]] or the ultimate figure who **opposeth** and exalts himself above God [[2 Thessalonians 2:4]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the nature of the opposition described by `{{G480}}`:
* `{{G4561}}` **sárx** (flesh): This refers to human nature with its frailties and passions. It is the **flesh** that is described as being in opposition to the Spirit [[Galatians 5:17]].
* `{{G4151}}` **pneûma** (spirit): By contrast, this term refers to a spirit, including the divine Holy Spirit. The **Spirit** is set as contrary to the flesh in the believer's internal struggle [[Galatians 5:17]].
* `{{G436}}` **anthístēmi** (to stand against, i.e. oppose): This word is used alongside `{{G480}}` to describe the inability of adversaries to **resist** the wisdom given by God to his followers [[Luke 21:15]].
* `{{G2617}}` **kataischýnō** (to shame down, i.e. disgrace or... put to the blush): This describes the ultimate fate of those in opposition, as seen when all of Christ's adversaries were **ashamed** [[Luke 13:17]].
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of `{{G480}}` is centered on the reality of spiritual and physical opposition.
* **The Internal Conflict:** The word establishes the ongoing battle within the believer. The flesh and the Spirit are inherently **contrary** to each other, creating a foundational spiritual tension [[Galatians 5:17]].
* **Opposition to God's Work:** `{{G480}}` is used to identify those who stand as **adversaries** to the gospel and its messengers. This opposition can be numerous and significant, but it is a foreseen part of ministry ([[1 Corinthians 16:9]], [[Philippians 1:28]]).
* **Definitive Rebellion:** The term describes the nature of the one who **opposeth** God in the temple, representing a pinnacle of blasphemous opposition to divine authority [[2 Thessalonians 2:4]].
* **Vulnerability of the Adversary:** The word is used in contexts that also show the limits of opposition. Believers are given an occasion to silence the **adversary** from speaking reproachfully [[1 Timothy 5:14]], and adversaries are ultimately put to shame [[Luke 13:17]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G480}}` is a crucial term for understanding the biblical concept of opposition. It encapsulates more than simple disagreement, pointing to a fundamental state of being adverse or contrary. From the internal war between the flesh and Spirit to the external resistance from human **adversaries** and the ultimate rebellion against God himself, **antíkeimai** defines the various fronts of conflict that are central to the scriptural narrative.
TRV