### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **toîchos**, represented by `{{G5109}}`, is a term for a **wall**. It is a rare word in scripture, appearing only **1 time** in **1 unique verse**. Its significance is derived not from frequency, but from its singular and potent metaphorical use in the book of Acts.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The sole appearance of `{{G5109}}` is in [[Acts 23:3]], during a dramatic confrontation. The Apostle Paul, on trial, is unlawfully commanded to be struck. In response, he rebukes his judge, saying, "God shall smite thee, thou whited **wall**." Here, the word is not used to describe a physical structure but as a sharp insult, accusing the official of being a hypocrite who presents a clean facade but is corrupt and unjust.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words illuminate the context of this powerful accusation:
* `{{G2867}}` **koniáō** (to whitewash): This verb is paired directly with `{{G5109}}` to form the insult "whited **wall**" [[Acts 23:3]]. This action of whitewashing is elsewhere associated with hypocrisy, as seen in the description of "whited sepulchres" that appear beautiful outwardly but are full of uncleanness within [[Matthew 23:27]].
* `{{G5180}}` **týptō** (to "thump", i.e. cudgel or pummel): This word for smiting appears twice in the same verse. Paul is commanded to be smitten `{{G5180}}`, and he declares that God will in turn smite `{{G5180}}` the "whited wall" [[Acts 23:3]]. The term is also used figuratively to mean offending or wounding a conscience [[1 Corinthians 8:12]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G5109}}` is concentrated in its single appearance as a metaphor for religious and judicial hypocrisy.
* **Symbol of False Righteousness:** The "whited wall" serves as a powerful symbol for something that appears upright and solid but is fundamentally unsound and corrupt. The whitewash `{{G2867}}` conceals the true nature of the structure.
* **Object of Divine Judgment:** Paul's use of the term is immediately followed by a prophecy of divine retribution: "God shall smite thee" [[Acts 23:3]]. This links the state of being a "whited wall" directly to impending judgment from God for injustice.
* **Injustice Under the Law:** The insult is delivered specifically because the judge commands an act "contrary to the law." The "wall," representing an institution of the law, is exposed as a fraudulent barrier that hides lawlessness.
### Summary
In summary, `{{G5109}}` **toîchos** is far more than a simple word for a wall. Its single use in the Bible transforms it into a poignant symbol of hypocrisy and corrupt authority. The phrase "whited wall" in [[Acts 23:3]] stands as a lasting biblical condemnation of those who use an appearance of righteousness to conceal injustice, marking them as objects of divine judgment.
TRV