### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **timōréō**, represented by `{{G5097}}`, means to **punish** by inflicting a penalty. Derived from words meaning "to protect one's honor" and "a guard," it carries the sense of avenging an offense. It is a rare term in the Bible, appearing only **2 times** across **2 unique verses**.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
Both biblical uses of `{{G5097}}` are found in the book of Acts and describe the actions of Saul (later the Apostle Paul) before his conversion. He recounts his past persecution of Christians, stating that he received authority from the high priest and elders to go to Damascus and bring believers bound to Jerusalem "for to be **punished**" [[Acts 22:5]]. In his testimony before Agrippa, he confesses, "And I **punished** them oft in every synagogue, and compelled them to blaspheme" [[Acts 26:11]]. In these contexts, the word refers to an official, authorized penalty against the early church.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the context of this punishment:
* `{{G1377}}` **diṓkō** (to pursue, persecute): This word is used in direct connection with the punishment. Paul admits that after he punished believers, he **persecuted** them even to strange cities [[Acts 26:11]]. This shows the punishment was part of an active, aggressive campaign.
* `{{G315}}` **anankázō** (to compel, constrain): This term reveals the goal of the punishment. Paul **compelled** believers to blaspheme [[Acts 26:11]], indicating that the penalty was intended to force them to renounce their faith.
* `{{G1210}}` **déō** (to bind): This word highlights the physical means used. Paul’s mission was to bring believers from Damascus to Jerusalem **bound** [[Acts 22:5]], demonstrating that physical restraint was a key part of the process leading to punishment.
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G5097}}` is centered on the nature of early Christian persecution.
* **Authorized Opposition:** The punishment was not rogue vigilantism. Paul acted with **letters** `{{G1992}}` received from the **high priest** `{{G749}}` and the **estate of the elders** `{{G4244}}`, showing the opposition was sanctioned by the highest religious authorities of the time [[Acts 22:5]].
* **Intense Hostility:** The persecution was driven by extreme fervor. Paul describes himself as "exceedingly mad against" `{{G1693}}` the believers he **punished** and persecuted [[Acts 26:11]].
* **Systematic Suppression:** The punishment was carried out "oft" `{{G4178}}` and in "every synagogue" `{{G4864}}`, and it extended beyond Jerusalem to "strange cities" `{{G1854}}` like **Damascus** `{{G1154}}` [[Acts 26:11]]. This demonstrates a systematic effort to suppress the early church.
### Summary
In summary, `{{G5097}}` is a specific term for inflicting a penalty that, within scripture, is exclusively tied to the historical persecution of the first Christians by Saul. It illustrates how the early church faced organized and severe opposition from established religious powers, with punishments designed to bind believers and compel them to blaspheme their faith.
TRV