### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **trachýs**, represented by `{{G5138}}`, describes something that is uneven, rocky, or rough. It appears **2 times** across **2 unique verses** in the Bible. The term’s base definition suggests a surface that is jagged, as if by rents, conveying a sense of harshness or difficulty.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The word `{{G5138}}` is used in two distinct contexts. In [[Luke 3:5]], it is used figuratively in a prophecy about spiritual preparation, stating that the **rough** ways shall be made smooth. This illustrates the removal of moral and spiritual obstacles. In a more literal sense, [[Acts 27:29]] describes sailors fearing their ship would fall upon **rocks**, using `{{G5138}}` to describe dangerous, reefy places in the sea.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the meaning of `{{G5138}}`:
* `{{G3006}}` **leîos** (smooth): This word, meaning "smooth, i.e. 'level'," is used as the direct opposite of `{{G5138}}` in [[Luke 3:5]], highlighting the transformation from a difficult state to an easy one.
* `{{G4646}}` **skoliós** (crooked): Described as "warped" or "perverse," this word appears in parallel with `{{G5138}}` in [[Luke 3:5]], where crooked things are made straight, reinforcing the theme of removing hindrances.
* `{{G5117}}` **tópos** (place): Meaning a "spot" or "location," this word is combined with `{{G5138}}` in [[Acts 27:29]] to specify a particular kind of location: a dangerous, rocky area.
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G5138}}` is primarily found in its figurative application.
* **Spiritual Preparation:** The "rough ways" in [[Luke 3:5]] represent the unprepared condition of human life and hearts. The prophecy declares that these hindrances will be leveled in preparation for the Lord's arrival.
* **Radical Transformation:** By contrasting the "rough" with the "smooth," the word illustrates the profound change that God brings about. It signifies a move from a state of difficulty and imperfection to one of readiness and order [[Luke 3:5]].
* **Physical Peril and Deliverance:** Its literal use in [[Acts 27:29]] to describe deadly **rocks** underscores themes of physical danger and trial, setting the stage for divine protection and deliverance in the face of life-threatening circumstances.
### Summary
In summary, `{{G5138}}` is a potent term that conveys the idea of roughness and unevenness. While used literally to describe dangerous rocky terrain, its greater significance lies in its figurative role symbolizing the spiritual obstacles that must be removed for a person to be ready for God. It encapsulates a powerful theme of divine transformation, whether smoothing a spiritual path or providing safety from physical harm.
TRV