The Greek word tyrbázō, represented by G5182, means to make "turbid" or to disturb and trouble. Derived from the Latin word turba, meaning a crowd, it conveys a sense of inner agitation. It appears only 1 time in the entire Bible, in 1 unique verse, making its single usage highly specific and significant.
The sole instance of G5182 is found in a direct statement from Jesus to Martha. In Luke 10:41, Jesus answered her by saying, "Martha, Martha, thou art careful and troubled about many things". In this context, the word describes a state of being mentally and emotionally disturbed. It is used alongside the word for being "careful" or anxious G3309, indicating that Martha's trouble stemmed from her preoccupation with her many duties.
Several related words from its only context help clarify the meaning of G5182:
- G3309 merimnáō (to be anxious about): This word is paired directly with G5182 to describe Martha's state as being both "careful and troubled," linking the disturbance to a state of anxiety Luke 10:41. Jesus uses this same word to command against worry Matthew 6:25.
- G4012 perí (with respect to; concerning): This particle specifies the focus of Martha's trouble, indicating she was troubled "about" a particular matter Luke 10:41. The scriptures are said to testify "of" or concerning Jesus John 5:39.
- G4183 polýs (many): This adjective quantifies the source of the trouble, showing that Martha was disturbed not by one thing, but by "many things" Luke 10:41.
- G3136 Mártha (Martha, a Christian woman): She is the person to whom the term G5182 is applied, identifying her as the one experiencing the inner turmoil Luke 10:41.
The theological weight of G5182, despite its rarity, is focused and poignant.
- A Rebuke of Distraction: The word is used within a gentle rebuke from Jesus G2424 to Martha G3136. Her state of being "troubled" highlights a spiritual danger: allowing numerous cares to distract from the most important things.
- The Nature of worldly Anxiety: By being paired with G3309 merimnáō, the state of being "troubled" is defined as a form of anxiety. This connects Martha's experience to broader scriptural warnings against anxiousness and the command to instead cast all care upon God 1 Peter 5:7.
- Internal vs. External State: The use of G5182 points to an internal condition of being disturbed. While Martha was engaged in external acts of service, Jesus G2424 addressed her inner state of agitation, showing his concern for the heart over mere activity.
In summary, G5182 provides a sharp and memorable snapshot of a specific kind of spiritual distress. Though used only once, its appearance in Luke 10:41 serves as a powerful illustration of being inwardly disturbed and agitated by the weight of "many things". It functions as a biblical keyword for the kind of distracting anxiety that Jesus calls his followers to leave behind in favor of focused devotion to him.
TRV