The Greek word dákry, represented by G1144, is the term for a tear. It appears 11 times across 11 unique verses in the Bible. This word signifies the physical expression of profound human emotions, ranging from sorrow and anguish to earnest supplication and heartfelt devotion.
In the biblical narrative, G1144 appears in several distinct contexts. It is used to describe the emotional weight of ministry, as when Paul speaks of serving the Lord with "many tears" Acts 20:19 and warning the Ephesian elders "with tears" Acts 20:31. The word also portrays deep repentance and devotion, such as when a woman washes Jesus' feet "with tears" Luke 7:38 or when Esau seeks a blessing "carefully with tears" Hebrews 12:17. Ultimately, it features in the eschatological promise that God will one day wipe away every tear from the eyes of his people Revelation 21:4.
Several related words provide a fuller picture of the experiences associated with G1144:
- G2347 thlîpsis (affliction): This word for pressure or anguish often describes the source of tears. Paul wrote to the Corinthians out of "much affliction" with "many tears" 2 Corinthians 2:4.
- G2906 kraugḗ (crying): An outcry of grief or tumult, this is frequently paired with tears. Jesus offered up prayers "with strong crying and tears" Hebrews 5:7.
- G5479 chará (joy): This term for calm delight stands in direct contrast to sorrow. Paul expressed his desire to see Timothy, being mindful of his "tears," so that he might be filled with joy 2 Timothy 1:4.
- G1591 ekmássō (wipe dry): This verb is directly connected to the act of dealing with tears. A woman "did wipe" Jesus' feet, which she had washed with tears, with her hair Luke 7:38.
The theological significance of G1144 is demonstrated in its connection to both human suffering and divine comfort.
- Expression of Sincere Supplication: Tears are a sign of earnest and heartfelt pleas. A father cries out "with tears" for faith Mark 9:24, and Jesus himself offers prayers "with strong crying and tears" to the one who could save him from death Hebrews 5:7.
- Mark of Godly Ministry: The word is used to describe the deep emotional investment of a spiritual leader. Paul reminds the elders that he warned them day and night "with tears" Acts 20:31 and wrote a difficult letter out of "anguish of heart" and "many tears" 2 Corinthians 2:4.
- The Ultimate End of Sorrow: A central promise of the new creation is the final cessation of weeping. God himself will wipe away all tears, and there will be no more death G2288, sorrow G3997, or pain G4192 Revelation 21:4.
In summary, G1144 is more than just a word for a physical tear; it is a profound symbol of the human condition. It represents the depths of anguish, the sincerity of repentance, and the passion of ministry. Most significantly, its presence in Scripture highlights a core theological promise: that the pain and sorrow it signifies in this life will be completely and personally removed by God in the age to come.
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