θυμόω

I provoke to anger, am full of angry passion

Definition

θυμόω means to provoke someone to anger or to be filled with intense, passionate anger oneself. In its active voice, it describes causing another to become enraged, while in the passive voice, it refers to the state of being extremely angry or wrathful. The word conveys a strong, often heated emotional response. In the New Testament, its sole occurrence is in Matthew 2:16, where Herod is described as being 'exceedingly wroth' (ἐθυμώθη λίαν) upon learning the Magi had deceived him, leading to the massacre in Bethlehem.

Biblical Usage

This verb is used only once in the New Testament, in Matthew 2:16, describing King Herod's furious reaction. It appears in a narrative context of political threat and violent retaliation. The usage is in the passive voice (ἐθυμώθη), emphasizing Herod's internal state of being provoked to intense anger, which directly motivates his brutal command.

Etymology

Derived from the noun θυμός (thymos, G2372), meaning 'passion,' 'anger,' or 'spirit.' The noun itself relates to strong emotions or the seat of feeling. The verb form θυμόω literally means 'to make passionate' or 'to be in a state of passion,' specifically anger. It is part of a word family expressing intense emotional agitation.

Semantic Range

Though used only once, this word is theologically significant as it highlights the nature of human wrath opposed to God's purposes. Herod's 'thymoō' anger leads to violence against innocent children, contrasting with God's righteous judgment and the protective care shown in the Christmas narrative. Understanding this intense anger enriches reading by underscoring the political danger surrounding Jesus' birth and the human evil from which he was delivered.

In the Greco-Roman world, θυμός often referred to spiritedness or passion, which could be a positive force in battle or a dangerous, irrational outburst. Herod's reaction fits a pattern of tyrannical rage familiar in ancient histories, where rulers violently eliminated perceived threats to their power. His excessive anger would have been seen as a mark of a cruel and insecure despot.

ὀργίζομαι (orgizomai, G3710) — more common general term for being angry; often implies a settled indignation. παροξύνω (paroxynō, G3947) — to provoke, irritate, or stir up; can be used in arguments (as in Acts 15:39). χολάω (cholaō, G5520) — to be bile-filled, bitter, or angry; used in John 7:23 for provoking anger.

Word Details

Scripture References