### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **trischílioi**, represented by `{{G5153}}`, is a number meaning **three thousand**. It is formed from the words for "three times" and "a thousand." It is a highly specific term, appearing only **1 time** in **1 unique verse** in the entire Bible.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The single use of `{{G5153}}` occurs in the book of Acts at a pivotal moment in the formation of the early church. On the day of Pentecost, after the apostle Peter preaches his first sermon, the crowd's response is recorded: "they that gladly received his word were baptized: and the same day there were added unto them about **three thousand** souls" [[Acts 2:41]]. This number quantifies the immediate and powerful result of the first gospel proclamation after the coming of the Holy Spirit.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words in the immediate context of [[Acts 2:41]] illuminate the significance of this event:
* `{{G3056}}` **lógos** (word): This refers to the message or "something said" that was preached by Peter. The reception of this **word** was the catalyst for the conversion of the three thousand [[Acts 2:41]]. The power of God's **word** is a recurring theme [[Hebrews 4:12]].
* `{{G4369}}` **prostíthēmi** (added): This verb means "to place additionally" or "annex." It describes the divine action of growing the church, as the Lord **added** these souls to the body of believers ([[Acts 2:41]], [[Acts 2:47]]).
* `{{G5590}}` **psychḗ** (souls): This term, meaning "soul" or "life," specifies that the **three thousand** were individual persons, not just a nameless crowd. Each **soul** was counted as part of this foundational addition to the church [[Acts 2:41]].
* `{{G907}}` **baptízō** (baptize): This describes the action of being immersed, the ordinance that those who believed the word underwent. This act of being **baptized** was a key component of their response ([[Acts 2:41]], [[Acts 2:38]]).
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G5153}}` is tied entirely to its singular context, marking the birth of the New Testament church.
* **The Power of the Gospel:** The number **three thousand** provides a tangible measure of the effectiveness of the first apostolic sermon. It demonstrates the power of the proclaimed **word** `{{G3056}}` to bring about immediate, large-scale conversion [[Acts 2:41]].
* **The Foundation of the Church:** This event represents the first great harvest of souls. The **three thousand** who were **added** `{{G4369}}` formed the foundational community of the Jerusalem church, establishing a pattern of growth that would continue [[Acts 2:47]].
* **Response to the Spirit:** The conversion of the **three thousand** is the direct outcome of the events of Pentecost, where believers were instructed to repent and be **baptized** `{{G907}}` to receive the gift of the Holy Ghost [[Acts 2:38]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G5153}}` **trischílioi** is more than a statistic; it is a monument in redemptive history. Its sole appearance in scripture quantifies the initial, explosive growth of the church on the day of Pentecost. It serves as a permanent record of the power of the Holy Spirit, working through the preached word, to bring **three thousand** souls into the kingdom in a single day [[Acts 2:41]].
TRV