### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **ōrýomai**, represented by `{{G5612}}`, means to **roar**. It is a rare term, appearing only **1 time** in **1 unique verse** in the Bible. Its sole use vividly describes the sound made by a predator, establishing an image of imminent danger and aggression.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In its only biblical appearance, `{{G5612}}` is used to create a powerful image of spiritual peril. The verse warns believers to be vigilant because their "adversary the devil, as a **roaring** lion, walketh about, seeking whom he may devour" [[1 Peter 5:8]]. The act of **roaring** is directly linked to the devil's menacing and predatory nature as he actively hunts for the vulnerable.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words in the same verse give context to the action of **roaring**:
* `{{G3023}}` **léōn** (a "lion"): This word provides the subject doing the **roaring**. The devil is compared to a **lion** to emphasize his ferocity [[1 Peter 5:8]], a creature also referenced as a symbol of strength and royalty in the "Lion of the tribe of Juda" [[Revelation 5:5]].
* `{{G1228}}` **diábolos** (devil): This identifies the roaring predator as a "traducer; specially, Satan." He is presented as an enemy who must be resisted [[James 4:7]] and whose schemes believers must stand against [[Ephesians 6:11]].
* `{{G2666}}` **katapínō** (to drink down, i.e. gulp entire): This word reveals the purpose of the roaring lion: to **devour** or "swallow (up)." The same term is used to describe death being "swallowed up in victory" [[1 Corinthians 15:54]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G5612}}` comes entirely from its use in describing the devil's tactics.
* **A Portrait of the Adversary:** The act of **roaring** portrays the devil `{{G1228}}` as a fierce and intimidating predator. He is an "adversary" `{{G476}}` who actively "walketh about" `{{G4043}}`, "seeking" `{{G2212}}` someone to attack and "devour" `{{G2666}}`.
* **A Call to Vigilance:** The sound of the **roaring** lion serves as an urgent warning. It is immediately preceded by the commands to "be sober" `{{G3525}}` and "be vigilant" `{{G1127}}`, linking the threat to the necessity of spiritual watchfulness and self-control.
* **The Threat of Destruction:** The roar is not empty noise; it signals a lethal intent. The goal of the "roaring lion" is to "devour," highlighting the serious and destructive nature of the spiritual threat believers face.
### Summary
In summary, `{{G5612}}` **ōrýomai** is a highly specific word used only once to mean **roar**. Its sole appearance in scripture is in the description of the devil as a **roaring** lion in [[1 Peter 5:8]]. While rare, its impact is significant, creating a lasting image of the adversary as a dangerous predator. The word functions to emphasize the lethal threat posed by the devil and to reinforce the biblical call for believers to be sober and vigilant in their faith.
TRV