### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **tympanízō**, represented by `{{G5178}}`, is derived from a word meaning a drum and describes a horrific form of execution. It means "to stretch on an instrument of torture resembling a drum, and thus beat to death," and is translated as **torture**. This specific term appears only **1 time** in **1 unique verse** in the Bible.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The single appearance of `{{G5178}}` is in the context of recounting the heroes of faith. [[Hebrews 11:35]] contrasts the experiences of the faithful, noting that while some women received their dead back to life, "**and** others were **tortured**, not accepting deliverance." This stark depiction shows that faith was expressed not only through miraculous deliverance but also through enduring extreme suffering and martyrdom for a future hope.
### Related Words & Concepts
The verse's meaning is enriched by the words surrounding the act of torture:
* `{{G243}}` **állos** (another): This word distinguishes the group who were tortured from those who experienced resurrection in this life, highlighting different manifestations of faith.
* `{{G4327}}` **prosdéchomai** (accepting): This describes the deliberate refusal to take an offered escape, as these individuals were awaiting something greater.
* `{{G629}}` **apolýtrōsis** (deliverance): This refers to the ransom or riddance from suffering that the martyrs rejected in their present life.
* `{{G2909}}` **kreíttōn** (better): This comparative word is key, as it defines the motivation for their endurance—the promise of a nobler and more excellent resurrection.
* `{{G386}}` **anástasis** (resurrection): The ultimate goal for which they suffered, a "standing up again" from death.
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G5178}}` is centered on the nature of faith and hope.
* **A Heavenly Hope:** The individuals who were tortured `{{G5178}}` made a conscious choice to forgo earthly deliverance `{{G629}}`. Their actions were driven by the conviction that they would "obtain a **better** resurrection" [[Hebrews 11:35]], demonstrating a faith fixed on eternal rewards, not temporal comfort.
* **The Price of Faith:** This word vividly portrays the ultimate cost of faithfulness for some believers. It serves as a powerful testament to a conviction so strong that it holds steady even in the face of a brutal death.
* **Faith in Suffering:** The context of Hebrews 11 shows that faith is not a guarantee of an easy life. While some believers receive miraculous intervention, others demonstrate their faith by persevering through persecution, with their hope placed firmly in God's future promises.
### Summary
In summary, `{{G5178}}` is a rare but impactful term signifying a brutal form of martyrdom. Its sole use in [[Hebrews 11:35]] powerfully illustrates a faith that willingly endures the most extreme earthly suffering. By rejecting immediate deliverance, these believers demonstrated their unwavering hope in obtaining a "better resurrection," defining a faith whose focus is not on this life, but on the eternal life to come.
TRV