### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **philoneikía**, represented by `{{G5379}}`, denotes **strife** or **quarrelsomeness**. Appearing only **1 time** in **1 unique verse**, its use in scripture points to a specific instance of a dispute. The term is defined as quarrelsomeness or a dispute that creates strife.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The sole use of `{{G5379}}` in the Bible is found in a moment of contention among Jesus's disciples. In this context, a **strife** arose among them concerning which of them should be accounted the greatest [[Luke 22:24]]. This specific dispute highlights a struggle for status and reputation that was a source of internal conflict.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words from its single context illuminate the nature of this strife:
* `{{G1096}}` **gínomai** (to cause to be): This verb signifies coming into being or arising. In the context of the dispute, it indicates that a strife **arose** or **came to pass** among the disciples [[Luke 22:24]]. The word is also used to describe transformation, such as when the Word **was made** flesh [[John 1:14]].
* `{{G1380}}` **dokéō** (to think): This word relates to perception, thinking, or seeming. The dispute centered on who **should be accounted** as the greatest, highlighting a concern with reputation and appearance [[Luke 22:24]]. It is also used in warnings, such as for the one who **thinketh** he standeth to take heed lest he fall [[1 Corinthians 10:12]].
* `{{G3187}}` **meízōn** (greater): As a comparative term for "greater," this word is the subject of the disciples' quarrelsomeness. Their **strife** was about which of them was the **greatest** [[Luke 22:24]]. This same word is used to describe God, who is **greater** than he that is in the world [[1 John 4:4]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G5379}}` is found in its negative example. It serves as a warning against attitudes that undermine faith and community.
* **The Problem of Pride:** The dispute over who is the **greatest** `{{G3187}}` reveals a struggle with pride and the desire for status. This attitude is contrary to a life of faith, as scripture states that God resisteth the proud but giveth grace unto the humble [[James 4:6]].
* **Division Within the Community:** The term **philoneikía** appears in the context of a dispute "**among** them" [[Luke 22:24]], highlighting how quarrelsomeness creates division. This stands in contrast to the unity of being a new creature **in** Christ [[2 Corinthians 5:17]].
* **Focus on Perception:** The argument centers on who **should be accounted** `{{G1380}}` as greatest, revealing a concern for external reputation. Scripture warns against such thinking, cautioning those who merely **seem** to be religious while their heart is deceived [[James 1:26]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G5379}}` **philoneikía** is a highly specific term for **strife** whose single biblical appearance provides a powerful lesson. It captures a moment of human weakness, where a dispute over who is the **greatest** `{{G3187}}` creates division among followers. The word serves as a concise warning against the dangers of quarrelsomeness, pride, and the pursuit of worldly status within the community of faith.
TRV