feminine of an equivalent perhaps akin to the same as 5514 (from the greenish hue); "gall" or bile, i.e. (by analogy) poison or an anodyne (wormwood, poppy, etc.):--gall.
### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **cholḗ**, represented by `{{G5521}}`, refers to **"gall"** or bile. According to its base definition, it can denote poison or an anodyne substance like wormwood or poppy. This word appears 2 times across 2 unique verses in the Bible.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The word `{{G5521}}` is used both literally and figuratively in scripture. In a literal sense, it describes a substance offered to Jesus during the crucifixion, where soldiers gave him vinegar to **drink** mingled with **gall** [[Matthew 27:34]]. Figuratively, it is used to characterize a state of profound spiritual corruption, as when Peter perceives a person to be in the **"gall** of bitterness, and in the bond of iniquity" [[Acts 8:23]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the meaning of `{{G5521}}` in its contexts:
* `{{G3690}}` **óxos** (vinegar): Defined as "vinegar, i.e. sour wine," this word is directly paired with **gall** in the drink offered to Jesus on the cross [[Matthew 27:34]].
* `{{G4088}}` **pikría** (bitterness): Meaning "acridity (especially poison), literally or figuratively," this term is used with **gall** to describe a state of deep-seated sinfulness [[Acts 8:23]].
* `{{G4886}}` **sýndesmos** (bond): This word, meaning "a joint tie, i.e. ligament, (figuratively) uniting principle, control," is used alongside **gall** to illustrate being trapped, specifically in "the **bond** of iniquity" [[Acts 8:23]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G5521}}` is demonstrated in its two distinct applications.
* **Symbol of Suffering:** The offering of **gall** `{{G5521}}` mingled with vinegar `{{G3690}}` to Jesus represents a moment of intense suffering and mockery during the crucifixion narrative [[Matthew 27:34]].
* **Metaphor for Moral Corruption:** In the book of Acts, **gall** is used metaphorically to diagnose a spiritual condition. Being "in the **gall** of bitterness" `{{G4088}}` is equated with being held in "the bond" `{{G4886}}` of "iniquity" `{{G93}}` [[Acts 8:23]].
* **Conscious Rejection:** Jesus's refusal to **drink** `{{G4095}}` the mixture of vinegar and **gall** signifies a conscious choice. The base definition of **gall** includes "anodyne," suggesting he rejected a substance that could have dulled his senses [[Matthew 27:34]].
### Summary
In summary, **cholḗ** `{{G5521}}`, though appearing only twice, carries significant weight. It functions both as a literal, bitter substance associated with the physical suffering of Christ, and as a powerful metaphor for the poisonous nature of sin and spiritual corruption. Its use in scripture highlights themes of suffering, rejection, and the deep-seated nature of iniquity.
TRV