πνίγω
I choke, strangle
Definition
πνίγω (pnigō) primarily means 'to choke' or 'strangle,' often involving the obstruction of breathing. In Matthew 18:28, it is used metaphorically for choking someone by seizing them by the throat, depicting violent aggression. In Mark 5:13, it describes the drowning of the herd of pigs, extending the sense to suffocation in water. Thus, the verb encompasses both literal strangulation and death by submersion, emphasizing a forceful suppression of life.
Biblical Usage
This verb appears only twice in the New Testament, both in narrative contexts highlighting dramatic, destructive actions. In Matthew 18:28, it illustrates the unforgiving servant's brutality toward a fellow servant. In Mark 5:13, it recounts the drowning of the demon-possessed pigs after Jesus' exorcism. Both uses convey sudden, violent ends, underscoring themes of judgment or supernatural power.
Etymology
Derived from the Greek root πνιγ- (pnig-), related to πνέω (pneō, 'to breathe'), πνίγω inherently involves breath or its cessation. Cognates include πνικτός (pniktos, 'strangled'), referring to animals killed without bloodletting. The word's development ties choking to suffocation, whether by physical force or drowning.
Semantic Range
πνίγω enriches understanding of divine judgment and spiritual oppression. In Matthew 18:28, it mirrors the spiritual 'choking' of unforgiveness, contrasting God's mercy. In Mark 5:13, it shows Jesus' authority over demons, with the drowning symbolizing the destruction of evil forces. Grasping this Greek term highlights how physical violence in narratives can reflect deeper spiritual truths about sin and redemption.
In ancient Greco-Roman culture, choking or strangling was associated with dishonorable violence, often in personal conflicts or as a method of execution. Drowning was seen as a chaotic, ignoble death. Understanding this contrasts with modern perceptions, emphasizing the shame and suddenness in these biblical events, which would have resonated strongly with original audiences.
ἀποπνίγω (apopnigō, G638) — a strengthened form meaning 'to choke utterly,' used in parables like the sower (Luke 8:7). πνίγω itself is the base term for choking or drowning.
Word Details
How this works
Definitions are from the Dodson Greek-English Lexicon, a concise public-domain resource suitable for introductory word study. Brief glosses are supplemented by STEPBible TBESG data (CC BY 4.0). For advanced research, standard scholarly references include BDAG (Danker, 3rd ed.) and LSJ.
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