### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **tarachḗ**, represented by `{{G5016}}`, refers to a **disturbance**. It appears **2 times** in **2 unique verses** in the Bible. The term's definition encompasses both the literal roiling of water and the figurative sedition or turmoil of a mob, conveying a sense of agitation and unrest.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In its biblical applications, `{{G5016}}` is used in two distinct contexts. In [[John 5:4]], it describes a physical event, the **"troubling"** of the water in a pool by an angel, which was the catalyst for healing. In contrast, [[Mark 13:8]] uses the word in a prophetic sense, where Jesus lists **"troubles"** alongside famines and earthquakes as signs marking the "beginnings of sorrows." Here, it signifies a broader state of societal distress and upheaval.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the scope of `{{G5016}}`:
* `{{G5015}}` **tarássō** (to stir or agitate): As the root word for `tarachḗ`, it signifies the action of causing a disturbance. It is used to describe a troubled heart [[John 14:1]] and is the verb used for the angel who "troubled" the water in [[John 5:4]].
* `{{G4578}}` **seismós** (a commotion, earthquake, tempest): This word appears alongside `{{G5016}}` in [[Mark 13:8]], where "earthquakes" are listed as one of the coming signs of distress.
* `{{G5604}}` **ōdín** (a pang or throe, sorrow): This term provides context for the "troubles" mentioned in [[Mark 13:8]], defining them as part of the "beginnings of sorrows," akin to the travail of childbirth.
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of `{{G5016}}` is seen in its dual application as both a physical and eschatological sign.
* **Catalyst for Divine Intervention:** In the account of the pool, the **"troubling"** `{{G5016}}` of the water is a specific, observable event that signals the moment of God's healing power being made available [[John 5:4]].
* **Sign of End Times:** In prophecy, **"troubles"** `{{G5016}}` represent widespread societal and political instability. They are presented not as the end itself, but as part of the initial "sorrows" `{{G5604}}` that precede significant future events [[Mark 13:8]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G5016}}` is a specific term for disturbance that carries both literal and figurative weight. Though used only twice, it effectively illustrates how a physical agitation can mirror a much larger state of societal or prophetic turmoil. It represents a disturbance that can be as localized as the stirring of a pool or as widespread as the global unrest signaling the "beginnings of sorrows."
TRV