### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **tḗrēsis**, represented by `{{G5084}}`, is defined as "a watching, i.e. (figuratively) observance, or (concretely) a prison:--hold." It appears **3 times** across **3 unique verses** in the Bible. This word carries a distinct dual meaning, referring to either the concrete act of imprisonment or the figurative act of observing commandments.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The usage of `{{G5084}}` falls into two clear categories. In the book of Acts, it denotes a place of physical confinement. The apostles were seized and "put them in **hold** unto the next day" [[Acts 4:3]]. In a subsequent event, they were again arrested and put "in the common **prison**" [[Acts 5:18]]. In contrast, Paul uses the word in a figurative sense in his letter to the Corinthians, where he states, "Circumcision is nothing, and uncircumcision is nothing, but the **keeping** of the commandments of God" [[1 Corinthians 7:19]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the contexts in which `{{G5084}}` is used:
* `{{G1785}}` **entolḗ**: This word for **commandment** is defined as an "injunction, i.e. an authoritative prescription." It is the object of the "keeping" in [[1 Corinthians 7:19]], highlighting that the observance is focused on God's authoritative instructions.
* `{{G5087}}` **títhēmi**: Meaning **to place** or put, this verb is used to describe the action of placing the apostles into confinement ([[Acts 4:3]], [[Acts 5:18]]). It shows the deliberate act that results in the state of being in a **hold** or **prison**.
* `{{G4061}}` **peritomḗ**: Meaning **circumcision**, it refers to the rite, condition, or people. In [[1 Corinthians 7:19]], it is used as a counterpoint to demonstrate that external religious acts are insignificant compared to the act of keeping God's commandments.
* `{{G203}}` **akrobystía**: This term for **uncircumcision** represents an uncircumcised state or person. It is paired with circumcision to emphasize that one's physical or ritual status is nothing compared to active obedience [[1 Corinthians 7:19]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G5084}}` lies in the sharp contrast between its two meanings.
* **Physical Persecution:** In Acts, the word signifies the reality of earthly opposition to the gospel. The apostles being put into a **hold** [[Acts 4:3]] or a "common **prison**" [[Acts 5:18]] demonstrates the physical price of their ministry.
* **The Primacy of Obedience:** The use in [[1 Corinthians 7:19]] elevates the concept from external rituals to internal devotion. By declaring that **circumcision** `{{G4061}}` and **uncircumcision** `{{G203}}` are "nothing" but the **keeping** `{{G5084}}` of commandments is what matters, Paul underscores that genuine faith is expressed through obedience to God.
### Summary
In summary, `{{G5084}}` is a term with a powerful dual application. It can refer to a literal, concrete **prison** or the figurative, spiritual **observance** of God's commands. Its few appearances in scripture effectively contrast the temporary, physical confinement faced by believers with the enduring, spiritual responsibility to obey God, highlighting that true devotion transcends outward signs and earthly circumstances.
TRV