probably feminine of a presumed derivative of the alternate of ἔχω; properly, loitering (as a withholding of oneself from work) or leisure, i.e. (by implication) a "school" (as vacation from physical employment):--school.
### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **scholḗ**, represented by `{{G4981}}`, is defined as leisure or loitering, and by implication, a "school." Its root suggests a vacation from physical work. It appears only **1 time** in **1 unique verse** in the Bible, making its single appearance highly specific in its meaning and context.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The sole use of `{{G4981}}` is found in [[Acts 19:9]]. The context describes a turning point in Paul's ministry in Ephesus. After encountering a group of people who were **hardened** `{{G4645}}` and **believed not** `{{G544}}`, and who "spake evil of that way before the multitude," Paul made a strategic change. He departed from them, separated the disciples, and began "disputing daily in the **school** of one Tyrannus" [[Acts 19:9]]. This establishes the **school** as a dedicated venue for focused teaching and reasoning, away from a hostile and unreceptive audience.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words from its context illuminate the function of the **school** of Tyrannus:
* `{{G1256}}` **dialégomai** (to say thoroughly, i.e. discuss): This was the primary activity within the **school**. Paul was not just lecturing, but engaging in daily reasoning and discussion with the disciples [[Acts 19:9]]. This same word is used to describe Paul reasoning with the Jews in the synagogue [[Acts 18:19]].
* `{{G873}}` **aphorízō** (to set off by boundary, i.e. limit, exclude, appoint): This action immediately preceded the use of the school. Paul **separated** the disciples, creating a distinct group for instruction. This same term is used when Paul describes being **separated** unto the gospel of God [[Romans 1:1]].
* `{{G3101}}` **mathētḗs** (a learner, i.e. pupil): These were the people Paul took with him to the **school**. The purpose of this new location was the continued instruction of these **disciples** [[Acts 19:9]], who are defined by their commitment to learning, as Jesus states, "If ye continue in my word, then are ye my **disciples** indeed" [[John 8:31]].
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of `{{G4981}}` is found in its strategic role within ministry. It illustrates a divine pattern for dealing with opposition and ensuring the continuity of teaching.
* **A Sanctuary for Truth:** When the message is publicly reviled, the **school** represents a protected space where disciples can be taught without the distraction of a hardened and evil-speaking multitude [[Acts 19:9]].
* **The Principle of Separation:** The move to the **school** was a direct result of Paul separating the disciples. This highlights a biblical principle of separating believers for focused instruction when a broader audience becomes hostile, as seen in the command to "be ye **separate**" [[2 Corinthians 6:17]].
* **Dedicated Discipleship:** The **school** of Tyrannus became a center for daily, intensive discipleship. The purpose was to move beyond initial proclamation to the deeper work of reasoning and establishing learners in the faith.
### Summary
In summary, **scholḗ** `{{G4981}}` is more than just a place of learning. In its single biblical use, it represents a strategic response to spiritual opposition. It marks a shift from broad, public evangelism to focused, daily discipleship within a dedicated environment. The term encapsulates the necessity of creating a space for reasoned discussion and instruction for learners, especially after separating from those who harden their hearts to the truth.
TRV