ὀχλέω (ochleō)
ochleō
to disturb
Quick Reference
- Language
- Koine Greek
- Testament
- New Testament
- Occurrences
- 1 verses
- Root
- —
Word Overview
The verb ochleō means to disturb or trouble, carrying the specific sense of stirring up a crowd or causing an uproar. Derived from the word for "crowd" (ochlos), it describes the agitation of people into confusion or excitement. In the New Testament, this action is often directed against individuals, where a group is roused to cause distress or persecution.
This word appears only once in Scripture, in Acts 5:6. The context involves the reaction of the crowd to the death of Ananias and Sapphira. While some translations render it as being "troubled," the underlying imagery suggests a stirring up of the people, reflecting the chaotic energy associated with a restless mob. It highlights how public opinion can be quickly agitated by dramatic events.
The usage underscores the power of collective emotion in the early church narratives. By linking disturbance directly to the concept of a crowd, the term emphasizes that such trouble is not merely personal annoyance but a social upheaval. This rare occurrence provides a vivid snapshot of how news and spectacle could rapidly shift the mood of a community.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
The word ochleō describes more than a simple disturbance; it captures the sudden stirring of a crowd into agitation or confusion. In Acts 5, this term highlights how quickly public sentiment can shift when dramatic events occur within the community of believers. It reminds us that our actions carry weight not just for ourselves, but for the entire body around us.
For your daily life, this word invites reflection on how we influence those near us. Whether in a small group or a larger gathering, our conduct can either bring peace or cause unnecessary unrest. By choosing integrity and transparency, you help maintain a spirit of calm and trust among people who look to your example.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 1 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- [those] being tormented1×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- ὀχλουμένους1×
Key Verses
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Acts 5:16
The multitude also came together from the cities around Jerusalem, bringing sick people and those who were tormented by unclean spirits; and they were all healed.
This verse sets the stage by showing the large crowds gathering, providing the context for the disturbance that follows.