### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **aphrós**, represented by `{{G876}}`, is a term for **froth** or slaver. Defined as **foaming**, this word appears only **1 time** in the entire Bible. Its singular use provides a vivid and specific depiction of a severe physical symptom resulting from spiritual torment.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The sole occurrence of `{{G876}}` is found in a father's description of his son's affliction by a malevolent spirit. In this account, a **spirit** `{{G4151}}` seizes the boy, causing him to **suddenly** `{{G1810}}` cry out. The spirit then **teareth** `{{G4682}}` him to the point that he **foameth** `{{G876}}`, and it only **departeth** `{{G672}}` from him with great difficulty after **bruising** `{{G4937}}` him [[Luke 9:39]]. The term is used here to illustrate the violent, physical manifestation of demonic oppression.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words from the passage in [[Luke 9:39]] help to frame the context of **foaming**:
* `{{G4151}}` **pneûma** (a current of air, i.e. breath... or a spirit): This is the agent responsible for the boy's suffering. The foaming is a direct result of the action of this unclean **spirit** [[Luke 9:39]].
* `{{G4682}}` **sparássō** (to mangle, i.e. convulse with epilepsy): This word, translated as "teareth," describes the convulsive action that produces the foaming. It emphasizes the violent and uncontrollable nature of the seizures inflicted on the boy [[Luke 9:39]].
* `{{G4937}}` **syntríbō** (to crush completely, i.e. to shatter): This term, rendered as "bruising," highlights the destructive and damaging impact of the spiritual attack, of which the foaming is one symptom [[Luke 9:39]].
* `{{G1810}}` **exaíphnēs** (of a sudden (unexpectedly)): This adverb underscores the abrupt and terrifying nature of these episodes. The boy **suddenly** `{{G1810}}` cries out as the violent fit begins [[Luke 9:39]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G876}}` is derived entirely from its powerful context.
* **The Physical Reality of Spiritual Warfare:** The act of **foaming** `{{G876}}` provides a graphic, tangible sign of a spiritual battle. It shows that the influence of a **spirit** `{{G4151}}` can have severe, observable consequences on the human body [[Luke 9:39]].
* **The Destructive Nature of Evil:** The foaming is presented alongside being torn `{{G4682}}` and bruised `{{G4937}}`, demonstrating the malicious intent of the possessing spirit. The fact that the spirit **hardly** `{{G3425}}` departs shows a relentless effort to harm [[Luke 9:39]].
* **The Stage for Divine Power:** The severity of the symptoms, including foaming, serves to emphasize human helplessness in the face of such evil. This sets the stage for a demonstration of divine authority. The same word for **bruising** `{{G4937}}` the boy is used to promise that God will **bruise** `{{G4937}}` Satan under the feet of believers [[Romans 16:20]].
### Summary
In summary, while `{{G876}}` is an exceptionally rare word, its single use is impactful. It is more than a clinical description; it is a key detail in a portrait of extreme suffering caused by a spiritual force. The term **foaming** vividly captures the severity of the boy's condition, thereby magnifying the greatness of the power required to bring healing and deliverance.
TRV