ῥάπισμα

a slap

Definition

ῥάπισμα refers specifically to a blow delivered with an open hand, a slap or cuff on the face. In the New Testament, it consistently denotes a physical act of insult and contempt, not just any generic strike. In Mark 14:65 and John 19:3, it is used by soldiers and guards mocking Jesus during His trials and crucifixion, emphasizing the humiliation He endured. In John 18:22, it is an officer's reaction to Jesus' testimony before the high priest, highlighting the injustice and abuse Jesus faced from religious authorities.

Biblical Usage

This word appears three times, exclusively in the passion narratives of the Gospels. It is used in contexts of judicial abuse and mockery. In Mark 14:65 and John 19:3, it describes the actions of those mocking Jesus as a false king. In John 18:22, it is an act of violence from an officer of the high priest in response to Jesus' defense. The pattern shows it as a tool of humiliation from both religious and Roman authorities.

Etymology

Derived from the verb ῥαπίζω (rhapizō, G4474), meaning 'to strike with the open hand, to slap.' The noun form ῥάπισμα concretely denotes the result or instance of that action—a slap. It is related to ῥαβδίζω (rhabdizō, G4463), 'to beat with rods,' but specifies the use of the hand as the instrument.

Semantic Range

This word is theologically significant as it captures the physical and social humiliation Jesus willingly accepted as part of His suffering (Isaiah 50:6). It underscores the fulfillment of prophecy regarding the Messiah's abuse and the depth of His submission. Understanding this specific Greek term enriches reading by highlighting that these were not random blows but deliberate acts of contempt, intensifying the picture of Jesus' sacrificial love and the injustice He bore for humanity.

In the ancient Mediterranean world, a slap to the face was a profound insult and a gesture of extreme contempt, often used to shame or degrade a social inferior. It carried a weight of dishonor beyond mere physical pain. In a judicial setting, as in John 18:22, it was an illegal act, highlighting the breakdown of proper procedure in Jesus' trial.

πληγή (plēgē, G4127) — a broader term for a wound, stripe, or blow, often from a weapon or plague. δέρω (derō, G1194) — to flay, skin, or beat severely, typically implying a more brutal beating.

Word Details

Scripture References