λυπέω

I pain, grieve, vex

Definition

The verb λυπέω (lypeō) primarily means 'to cause pain, grief, or distress,' either emotionally or, in rare cases, physically. It most often describes causing emotional sorrow or grief, as when the disciples were 'grieved' at Jesus's prediction of his betrayal (Matthew 26:22). It can also mean 'to be grieved' or 'to grieve' in a passive or reflexive sense, describing the internal experience of sorrow, such as the rich young ruler who went away 'grieving' (Matthew 19:22). In some contexts, it carries the sense of 'to offend' or 'to vex,' as in causing someone to stumble or be distressed by one's actions.

Biblical Usage

λυπέω is used 21 times in the New Testament, appearing in the Gospels, Paul's letters, and 2 Corinthians. A key pattern is its use in relational and ethical contexts, often concerning grief caused by sin, betrayal, or loss. For example, it describes the king's regret in Matthew 14:9, the disciples' sorrow at Jesus's departure predictions (Matthew 17:23, John 16:20), and Paul's concern not to grieve the Holy Spirit (Ephesians 4:30) or a fellow believer (2 Corinthians 2:2-5).

Etymology

Derived from the noun λύπη (lypē, G3077), meaning 'pain, grief, sorrow.' The root is connected to the idea of physical or emotional distress. Cognates include the adjective λυπηρός (lypēros, 'painful, grievous'). The verb form emphasizes the action of causing or experiencing such grief.

Semantic Range

This word is theologically significant as it describes both human and divine grief. Most notably, believers are commanded not to 'grieve' the Holy Spirit (Ephesians 4:30), linking emotional sorrow to the holiness of God and the seriousness of sin within the Christian community. It also captures the profound human sorrow surrounding Jesus's death and the disciples' failure, highlighting the emotional reality of the gospel narrative. Understanding this term enriches reading by showing that biblical grief is not a mere feeling but has moral and relational dimensions.

In the ancient Greco-Roman world, grief (λύπη) was often discussed in philosophical contexts as a passion to be moderated. However, the New Testament usage is more personal and relational, reflecting the Hebraic understanding of grief as a deep, often communal, response to loss, sin, or broken covenant. The command not to grieve the Holy Spirit reflects a personal view of God's Spirit, distinct from impersonal philosophical concepts.

πενθέω (pentheō, G3996) — denotes mourning, often more intense or outward lamentation. θλίβω (thlibō, G2346) — emphasizes pressing, afflicting, or tribulation, often with a physical or external connotation. στενάζω (stenazō, G4727) — to groan, sigh, expressing internal distress or longing. ὀδυνάω (odynaō, G3600) — to cause or experience intense pain or torment, sometimes more acute.

Word Details

Scripture References