### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **antipíptō**, represented by `{{G496}}`, is defined as **to oppose** or **resist**. Formed from ἀντί and πίπτω, it appears **2 times** across **1 unique verse** in the Bible. Its rarity emphasizes the gravity of its meaning, signifying a direct and active opposition to divine will.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The sole biblical occurrence of `{{G496}}` is found in a powerful accusation in [[Acts 7:51]]: "Ye stiffnecked and uncircumcised in heart and ears, ye do always **resist** the Holy Ghost: as your fathers did, so do ye." The resistance here is not an isolated event but a continuous action, described as happening **always** `{{G104}}`. This opposition is explicitly linked to an internal state of being obstinate, or **stiffnecked** `{{G4644}}`, as well as spiritually hardened, being **uncircumcised** `{{G564}}` in **heart** `{{G2588}}` and **ears** `{{G3775}}`. The verse also establishes this act of resisting as a generational pattern passed down from their **fathers** `{{G3962}}`.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words in this passage illuminate the context of this resistance:
* `{{G4644}}` **sklērotráchēlos** (hardnaped, i.e. (figuratively) obstinate:--stiffnecked): This term describes the stubborn character of those who resist. It is used directly alongside `{{G496}}` to define the nature of the opposition [[Acts 7:51]].
* `{{G564}}` **aperítmētos** (uncircumcised (figuratively):--uncircumcised): This word points to a spiritual condition of being closed off to God. It is used to describe a **heart** `{{G2588}}` and **ears** `{{G3775}}` that are unprepared to receive divine truth [[Acts 7:51]].
* `{{G104}}` **aeí** ("ever," by qualification regularly; by implication, earnestly:--always, ever.): This adverb highlights the persistent, ongoing nature of the resistance. It is also used to describe a generation that does **alway** err in their heart [[Hebrews 3:10]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G496}}` is concentrated in its single, potent usage.
* **Generational Opposition:** The act of resisting is presented as a pattern inherited from the **fathers** `{{G3962}}`, indicating a deep-rooted and historical rebellion against God [[Acts 7:51]].
* **The Nature of Hardness:** Resistance is not merely a choice but the fruit of an internal state. To be **stiffnecked** `{{G4644}}` and **uncircumcised** `{{G564}}` in heart and ears is to be fundamentally closed to spiritual hearing and understanding.
* **Confronting the Holy Spirit:** The object of the resistance is the **Holy Ghost** `{{G40}}` `{{G4151}}`. This frames the conflict as a direct opposition to the presence and work of God Himself, a vital concept in scripture [[Acts 7:51]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G496}}` **antipíptō** is a term that, while rare, carries immense weight. It describes more than simple disagreement; it defines a willful and continuous opposition to the Holy Spirit. This resistance is shown to be the characteristic of those who are obstinate and spiritually closed off, continuing a legacy of rebellion. Its singular appearance in scripture serves as a stark warning about the condition of a hardened heart that actively pushes against God.
TRV