βλάπτω

I hurt, injure

Definition

The verb βλάπτω means to harm, injure, or damage someone or something, primarily in a physical sense. In the New Testament, it is used to describe physical harm, as when Jesus says believers will be unharmed by poison (Mark 16:18). It can also imply causing injury or detriment more broadly, such as restraining or damaging a person's well-being. In Luke 4:35, it describes the demon not harming Jesus before being cast out, emphasizing a prevented injury.

Biblical Usage

βλάπτω appears only twice in the New Testament, both in narratives involving supernatural power. In Mark 16:18, it is part of the longer ending of Mark, describing a sign of protection for believers. In Luke 4:35, it occurs in an exorcism story, highlighting Jesus' authority over evil forces that intend harm. Both uses involve contexts of divine protection or authority preventing physical injury.

Etymology

Derived from the Proto-Indo-European root *gʷelH- meaning 'to injure' or 'to strike,' βλάπτω is a primary verb in Greek. It is related to words like βλάβη (blabē, G984 noun form) meaning 'harm' or 'damage.' The term carries a consistent sense of inflicting injury or loss throughout classical and Koine Greek.

Semantic Range

βλάπτω underscores themes of divine protection and authority in the face of evil. In Mark 16:18, it points to God's safeguarding of believers, while in Luke 4:35, it highlights Jesus' power to restrain harm from demonic forces. Understanding this Greek term enriches reading by emphasizing the tangible reality of spiritual protection and Christ's supremacy over all destructive powers.

In the ancient Greco-Roman world, physical harm from poisons, animals, or spirits was a common fear, making promises of protection highly significant. The word's use in exorcism contexts aligns with beliefs in malicious spiritual entities causing injury, which Jesus' ministry directly confronted.

ἀδικέω (adikeō, G91) — to wrong or act unjustly, often with moral or legal nuance; κακῶς ποιέω (kakōs poieō, phrase) — to do evil or harm, a broader expression; θλίβω (thlibō, G2346) — to press or afflict, often implying oppression rather than direct injury.

Word Details

Scripture References