### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **phragéllion**, represented by `{{G5416}}`, is defined as a **whip** or **scourge**, specifically a Roman lash used for public punishment. It is a rare term, appearing only **1 time** in **1 unique verse** in the Bible. Its singular use describes a tool of decisive action and authority.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The sole appearance of `{{G5416}}` is in the account of Jesus cleansing the temple. In this powerful scene, Jesus **made** `{{G4160}}` a **scourge** of **small cords** `{{G4979}}` and used it to **drive** `{{G1544}}` everyone out of the **temple** `{{G2411}}`, including the **sheep** `{{G4263}}` and the **oxen** `{{G1016}}`. The action was comprehensive, as he also **poured out** `{{G1632}}` the **money** `{{G2772}}` of the **changers** `{{G2855}}` and **overthrew** `{{G390}}` their **tables** `{{G5132}}` [[John 2:15]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words from its biblical context help illuminate the scene:
* `{{G4979}}` **schoiníon** (a rushlet, i.e. grass-withe or tie (generally):--small cord, rope): This word identifies the material used to create the scourge. It is also used to describe the **ropes** of a boat that were cut by soldiers [[Acts 27:32]].
* `{{G1544}}` **ekbállō** (to eject (literally or figuratively)): This is the action performed with the scourge. Beyond its use to **drive out** merchants from the temple, it is also used to describe casting out devils [[Mark 16:17]] and sending forth laborers [[Luke 10:2]].
* `{{G2411}}` **hierón** (a sacred place, i.e. the entire precincts of the Temple): This identifies the location of the event. The **temple** served as a central place for teaching [[John 7:28]], prayer [[Acts 3:1]], and community life [[Acts 2:46]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G5416}}` is derived entirely from its single, dramatic appearance.
* **Instrument of Righteous Action:** The **scourge** `{{G5416}}` was not a pre-existing weapon but was deliberately **made** `{{G4160}}` by Jesus from **small cords** `{{G4979}}`. This highlights a purposeful, not impulsive, act of judgment [[John 2:15]].
* **Symbol of Purification:** The word's only appearance is as the tool used to cleanse a sacred space. Jesus used the **scourge** to **drive out** `{{G1544}}` commercial activity from the **temple** `{{G2411}}`, restoring its intended purpose.
* **Assertion of Authority:** By employing the **scourge** `{{G5416}}`, Jesus physically asserted His authority over the temple precincts, an action that involved driving out all the merchants and animals, pouring out money, and overthrowing tables [[John 2:15]].
### Summary
In summary, **phragéllion** `{{G5416}}` is a highly specific term whose meaning is entirely defined by its single appearance. It is not just a generic whip but an instrument of divine authority and cleansing, purposefully created for a singular, dramatic event. The use of the **scourge** in [[John 2:15]] demonstrates a decisive and authoritative action to purify a sacred place, cementing its role in scripture as a symbol of righteous judgment.
TRV