σκορπίος

a scorpion

Definition

The Greek word σκορπίος refers to a scorpion, a small arachnid with a venomous stinger in its tail. In the New Testament, it is used both literally and figuratively. Literally, it describes the actual creature, as when Jesus tells his disciples they have authority to tread on 'serpents and scorpions' (Luke 10:19). Figuratively, it symbolizes something harmful or worthless, as in Jesus' rhetorical question about a father giving a scorpion instead of an egg to a hungry child (Luke 11:12). In Revelation, scorpions are part of a terrifying, demonic plague from the abyss, possessing the power to torment people for five months (Revelation 9:3, 5, 10).

Biblical Usage

The word is used five times in the New Testament, appearing in the Gospels (Luke) and Revelation. In Luke, it is used in Jesus' teachings to illustrate spiritual authority and the goodness of God the Father. In Revelation, it describes a key element of a prophetic, apocalyptic judgment. The usage shifts from a familiar, earthly creature in Jesus' analogies to a supernatural instrument of torment in John's vision.

Etymology

The word σκορπίος (skorpios) is the native Greek term for 'scorpion,' derived from an ancient Proto-Indo-European root meaning 'to cut' or 'to pierce,' likely referring to the creature's stinger. It is a straightforward descriptive term with cognates in other languages, like the Latin 'scorpio.'

Semantic Range

Theologically, σκορπίος highlights themes of spiritual authority, divine protection, and judgment. Jesus' statement in Luke 10:19 assures believers of authority over all the power of the enemy, with the scorpion representing harmful spiritual forces. In Luke 11:12, it contrasts God's good gifts with something utterly harmful, underscoring His trustworthiness. In Revelation, scorpions symbolize the terrifying, yet limited (five months), torments of God's end-times judgments, demonstrating that even in wrath, His sovereignty sets boundaries. Understanding this Greek term enriches reading by connecting the tangible creature to profound spiritual realities of protection, provision, and eschatological justice.

In the ancient Mediterranean world, scorpions were a common and feared danger, especially in arid regions like Judea. Their sting was painful and sometimes fatal, making them a potent symbol of suffering, evil, and hidden danger. This cultural understanding gives immediate force to Jesus' metaphors and the apocalyptic imagery in Revelation—listeners would instinctively grasp the scorpion as a source of real, acute harm.

There are no direct synonyms for 'scorpion' in the New Testament, but it is conceptually linked with other harmful creatures. ὄφις (ophis, G3789) — a serpent or snake, often paired with 'scorpion' as a general symbol of evil or danger (Luke 10:19).

Word Details

Scripture References