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.
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.
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.
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.
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