θανάσιμος

deadly, mortal

Definition

θανάσιμος is an adjective meaning 'deadly' or 'mortal,' describing something that causes or is characterized by death. In its sole New Testament occurrence in Mark 16:18, it refers to a 'deadly thing' (θανάσιμόν τι), likely a poison or venom, which believers are said to be able to drink without harm as a sign of divine protection. The word carries a strong sense of fatality, implying that the object or substance is inherently lethal. While not used elsewhere in the New Testament, its root connects it directly to the concept of death (θάνατος).

Biblical Usage

This word is used only once in the New Testament, in the longer ending of Mark (Mark 16:18). Here, it appears in a list of miraculous signs that will accompany believers, specifically the ability to drink any 'deadly thing' (θανάσιμόν τι) without being harmed. The context is one of supernatural protection and authority granted to the followers of Jesus, highlighting a power over physical death and poison.

Etymology

Derived directly from the Greek noun θάνατος (thanatos, G2288), meaning 'death.' The suffix -σιμος (-simos) forms adjectives indicating a quality or tendency, so θανάσιμος literally means 'death-bringing' or 'pertaining to death.' It is a straightforward descriptive term built from one of the most fundamental words for death in Greek.

Semantic Range

Though used only once, this word appears in a theologically significant passage about the authority and protection given to the church. Mark 16:18 speaks to the believer's victory over deadly forces through faith in Christ, symbolizing the breaking of death's power. Understanding this Greek term enriches the reading by emphasizing the literal, lethal nature of the threat—it's not merely something unpleasant, but something inherently fatal—which makes the promised divine protection all the more powerful.

In the ancient world, the threat of poison—whether from venomous creatures, contaminated food, or intentional poisoning—was a real and feared danger. The promise in Mark 16:18 would have resonated strongly with an audience familiar with these mortal perils. The word θανάσιμος concretely evokes this cultural context of ever-present physical threats to life.

θνητός (thnētos, G2349) — emphasizes being subject to death, 'mortal' (often for humans). θάνατος (thanatos, G2288) — the noun 'death' itself, the state or event.

Word Details

Scripture References