### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **trís**, represented by `{{G5151}}`, is an adverb meaning **three times** or **thrice**. It appears 12 times across 11 unique verses in the Bible. Its function is to mark a specific, threefold repetition of an action or event, often emphasizing a complete or significant series of occurrences.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In biblical narratives, `{{G5151}}` is used in several pivotal moments. Its most frequent use is in the prediction and fulfillment of Peter's denial of Jesus. Jesus foretells that Peter will **deny** `{{G533}}` him **thrice** ([[Matthew 26:34]], [[Mark 14:30]], [[Luke 22:34]], [[John 13:38]]). This prophecy comes to pass, and upon remembering the **word** `{{G4487}}` of **Jesus** `{{G2424}}`, Peter weeps **bitterly** `{{G4090}}` ([[Matthew 26:75]], [[Luke 22:61]]). The word is also used by Paul to recount his sufferings, stating he was **beaten with rods** `{{G4463}}` **thrice** and suffered **shipwreck** `{{G3489}}` **thrice** [[2 Corinthians 11:25]]. In Acts, a heavenly vision appears to Peter **three times** `{{G5151}}`, confirming its divine message ([[Acts 10:16]], [[Acts 11:10]]).
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words provide context to the numerical emphasis of `{{G5151}}`:
* `{{G1364}}` **dís** (twice): This adverb for "twice" is used in direct contrast to `{{G5151}}` in the account of Peter's denial. Jesus predicts that before the **cock** `{{G220}}` crows **twice** `{{G1364}}`, Peter will deny Him **thrice** [[Mark 14:30]].
* `{{G530}}` **hápax** (once): Meaning "one time," this word appears with `{{G5151}}` in Paul's list of hardships. He states he was beaten **thrice** `{{G5151}}` with rods but stoned **once** `{{G530}}`, creating a clear tally of his trials [[2 Corinthians 11:25]].
* `{{G3870}}` **parakaléō** (beseech): This verb describes the action that Paul repeated three times. He **besought** `{{G3870}}` the **Lord** `{{G2962}}` **thrice** `{{G5151}}` for his affliction to depart, demonstrating persistent prayer [[2 Corinthians 12:8]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G5151}}` is seen in the patterns it establishes.
* **Emphasis and Certainty:** The repetition of an event **three times** serves to confirm its divine origin and importance. Peter's vision of the vessel from **heaven** `{{G3772}}` **was done** `{{G1096}}` **thrice** `{{G5151}}` to remove any doubt about its meaning [[Acts 10:16]].
* **Complete Failure and Repentance:** Peter’s denial **thrice** `{{G5151}}` represents a total failure in a critical moment. This threefold denial, prophesied by Jesus [[Matthew 26:34]], becomes the catalyst for Peter’s profound repentance when he remembered the Lord's words [[Matthew 26:75]].
* **Persistent Supplication:** Paul's plea to the **Lord** `{{G2962}}` **thrice** `{{G5151}}` highlights a model of earnest and persistent prayer. This repeated act of beseeching in the face of suffering precedes the divine assurance of God's sufficient grace [[2 Corinthians 12:8]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G5151}}` functions as more than a simple number. It is a deliberate marker used to frame key moments of failure, confirmation, and intensity. From the depths of Peter's denial to the certainty of a divine vision and the persistence of Paul's prayers, **trís** underscores events of significant narrative and theological weight, illustrating how a numerical adverb can define critical turning points in scripture.
TRV