### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **chliarós**, represented by `{{G5513}}`, describes a state of being **lukewarm**. It appears just **1 time** in **1 unique verse** in the Bible. The term's base definition is "tepid," derived from the idea of being simply warm.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In its sole biblical appearance, `{{G5513}}` is used metaphorically to describe a spiritual state. The text explicitly defines this condition as being "neither **cold** nor **hot**" [[Revelation 3:16]]. This is presented as an unacceptable state that leads to the severe warning, "I will spue thee out of my mouth" [[Revelation 3:16]]. The word characterizes a state of spiritual indifference that is met with divine rejection.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words provide the context for understanding **chliarós** by defining the extremes it fails to meet:
* `{{G2200}}` **zestós** (boiled, i.e. (by implication) calid (figuratively, fervent):--hot): This term represents a fervent state. It is presented as a desirable alternative to being lukewarm, as in "I would thou wert cold or **hot**" [[Revelation 3:15]].
* `{{G5593}}` **psychrós** (chilly (literally or figuratively):--cold): This word can describe both literal and figurative coldness. It is used literally in giving "a cup of **cold** water" [[Matthew 10:42]] and figuratively as the opposite of **hot** [[Revelation 3:15]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G5513}}` is concentrated in its single, powerful use. It highlights the spiritual dangers of indifference.
* **A State of Unacceptable Neutrality:** The term is used to condemn a spiritual condition based on "works" that is neither one thing nor the other. Both **cold** `{{G5593}}` and **hot** `{{G2200}}` are presented as preferable states to being **lukewarm** [[Revelation 3:15]].
* **Provokes Divine Rejection:** The consequence of being **lukewarm** is not mere disapproval but total rejection, graphically described as being "spued... out of my mouth" [[Revelation 3:16]]. This indicates that spiritual complacency is intolerable.
### Summary
In summary, `{{G5513}}` **chliarós**, while appearing only once, offers a stark and memorable warning. It is not merely a term for temperature but a potent metaphor for spiritual complacency. Defined by its position between the extremes of **hot** and **cold**, its use in scripture illustrates that a state of indecisive indifference is viewed as profoundly offensive and will be met with outright rejection.
TRV