σπαράσσω

I convulse

Definition

The Greek verb σπαράσσω primarily means 'to convulse' or 'to throw into violent spasms.' In the New Testament, it is used exclusively to describe the violent physical convulsions experienced by individuals under demonic possession or influence. For example, in Mark 1:26, an unclean spirit convulses a man before coming out. The word conveys a sense of being torn, shaken, or thrown into a state of violent agitation, emphasizing the destructive power of the spiritual forces at work. All its occurrences depict this same intense, involuntary physical torment.

Biblical Usage

σπαράσσω is used four times in the New Testament, all within the Synoptic Gospels' accounts of demonic exorcism. It appears three times in Mark (Mark 1:26; 9:20; 9:26) and once in Luke (Luke 9:39). The usage pattern is consistent: the verb describes the violent physical reaction of a person as a demon is being cast out by Jesus or his disciples. It highlights the dramatic and often traumatic nature of these confrontations between divine authority and unclean spirits.

Etymology

The verb σπαράσσω derives from a root meaning 'to tear,' 'to rend,' or 'to mangle.' This root sense of violent tearing or pulling apart informs its developed meaning of causing convulsions—a violent tearing or wrenching of the body. Cognates in classical Greek could refer to tearing flesh or plundering. In the New Testament, this underlying sense of violent disruption is specialized to describe physical spasms.

Semantic Range

This word is theologically significant as it vividly portrays the reality and malevolence of demonic forces in conflict with the kingdom of God. The violent convulsions underscore that demonic possession is not merely a moral or psychological issue but involves tangible, destructive oppression of the physical person. Understanding σπαράσσω enriches reading by highlighting the power and authority of Jesus, whose mere command can overcome forces that cause such violent physical trauma, demonstrating his supremacy over all spiritual powers (Colossians 2:15).

In the first-century Greco-Roman and Jewish world, illness and unusual physical behavior were often attributed to spiritual causes. The violent convulsions described by σπαράσσω would have been recognized as a classic symptom of demonic oppression, distinguishing it from ordinary medical conditions like epilepsy (though the two could be conflated culturally). This context makes the Gospel accounts' descriptions immediately intelligible to the original audience as demonstrations of a spiritual battle.

σείω (seiō, G4579) — means 'to shake' or 'agitate,' often used for earthquakes or metaphorical shaking; less specific to violent bodily convulsions. πνίγω (pnigō, G4155) — means 'to choke' or 'drown,' used for a demon 'seizing' someone in Luke 8:29; focuses on suffocating restraint rather than convulsive tearing.

Word Details

Scripture References