Strong's Lexicon biastés: Violent man, forceful man Original Word: βιαστής Word Origin: Derived from βιάζω (biazō), meaning "to force" or "to press." Corresponding Greek / Hebrew Entries: While there is no direct Hebrew equivalent for "biastés," the concept of forceful or violent action can be seen in Hebrew words like חָזָק (chazaq - Strong's 2388), meaning "to be strong" or "to seize." Usage: The term "biastés" is used in the New Testament to describe individuals who are forceful or violent in their actions. It conveys the idea of someone who takes something by force or exerts power aggressively. In a biblical context, it often refers to those who are forcefully advancing the kingdom of God or those who are opposed to it. Cultural and Historical Background: In the Greco-Roman world, the concept of force and power was prevalent in both political and social spheres. The use of force was often seen as a means to achieve one's goals, whether in warfare, politics, or personal endeavors. In the Jewish context, the idea of forceful action could be associated with zeal for God's law and the coming of the Messiah, which some expected to be a forceful, political deliverance. HELPS Word-studies Cognate: 973 biastḗs – positive assertiveness; used of the believer living in faith ("God's inworked persuasions") guiding and empowering them to act forcefully – i.e. "fired up" by God to act by His revelation. It is used only in Mt 11:12. See 971 (biazō). NAS Exhaustive Concordance Word Originfrom biazó Definition a violent man NASB Translation violent men (1). Thayer's Greek Lexicon STRONGS NT 973: βιαστήςβιαστής, βιαστου, ὁ (biazoo]); 1. strong, forceful: Pindar Ol. 9, 114 (75); Pythagoras 4, 420 (236; but Pindar only uses the form βιατας, so others). 2. using force, violent: Philo, agric. § 19. In Matthew 11:12 those are called βιασταί by whom the kingdom of God βιάζεται, i. e. who strive to obtain its privileges with the utmost eagerness and effort. From biazo; a forcer, i.e. (figuratively) energetic -- violent. see GREEK biazo |
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