λύπη

pain, grief

Definition

The Greek word λύπη (lypē) primarily denotes a state of emotional pain, grief, or sorrow. In the New Testament, it most often refers to the deep, personal grief experienced due to difficult circumstances or relationships, such as the sorrow of the disciples in John 16:6, 20 over Jesus's departure. It can also describe the pain of childbirth (John 16:21) and the profound, godly grief over sin or spiritual condition, as seen in Paul's sorrow for his fellow Israelites in Romans 9:2. In 2 Corinthians, Paul uses the term to describe the relational distress caused within the Christian community (2 Corinthians 2:1, 3).

Biblical Usage

Λύπη is used 14 times in the New Testament, appearing in the Gospels (Luke, John), the Pauline epistles (Romans, 2 Corinthians), and Hebrews. A key pattern is its use in Jesus's Farewell Discourse (John 16:6-22), where it describes the disciples' sorrow turning to joy. Paul employs it to express deep personal and pastoral anguish (Romans 9:2; 2 Corinthians 2:1-7). It consistently describes an inward, emotional state, often with a relational or spiritual cause.

Etymology

Derived from the Greek root λυπ- (lyp-), meaning 'to cause pain, distress, or grief.' It is related to the verb λυπέω (lypeō, G3076), 'to grieve or cause sorrow.' The word group conveys a sense of heaviness, trouble, or affliction of the heart or mind.

Semantic Range

Λύπη is theologically significant as it describes both worldly sorrow and godly grief. Worldly sorrow leads to death, but godly grief, as Paul discusses in 2 Corinthians 7:10 (using the related verb), produces repentance and salvation. Understanding this distinction enriches reading, showing that not all 'pain' is negative; it can be a catalyst for spiritual growth and restoration within the community of believers.

In the ancient Greco-Roman world, λύπη was a common term for emotional distress, but the New Testament often infuses it with a distinct spiritual dimension. While the cultural understanding included grief from loss or pain, the biblical usage frequently connects it to relationships with God and others, elevating it beyond mere personal misfortune to a matter of the soul and community health.

ὀδύνη (odynē, G3601) — often sharper, physical or mental anguish or torment. πένθος (penthos, G3997) — more specifically mourning or lamentation, often outward. θλῖψις (thlipsis, G2347) — emphasizes external pressure, tribulation, or affliction, rather than the internal emotional state.

Word Details

Scripture References