The Greek word deinōs, represented by G1171, is an adverb used to mean terribly or excessively. It appears 2 times across 2 unique verses in the Bible. Translated as "grievously" and "vehemently," it signifies an extreme or severe degree of an action or state.
In the biblical narrative, G1171 is used to describe two very different kinds of intensity. In Matthew, a centurion reports that his servant is "sick of the palsy, grievously tormented" Matthew 8:6, emphasizing the severity of the physical suffering. In Luke, the word describes the hostile pressure from religious leaders, where the scribes and Pharisees "began to urge him vehemently" in an attempt to provoke him Luke 11:53.
Several related words clarify the context of these intense situations:
- G928 basanízō (to torture): This verb is directly modified by G1171 in Matthew's account, describing the state of being "grievously tormented" Matthew 8:6.
- G1758 enéchō (to hold in or upon, i.e. ensnare; by implication, to keep a grudge): This is the action performed "vehemently" by the Pharisees. It is translated as "to urge" and implies an effort to ensnare or hold a quarrel against someone Luke 11:53.
- G1122 grammateús (scribe): This identifies the professional writers who, along with the Pharisees, were applying this vehement pressure on Jesus Luke 11:53.
The theological weight of G1171 lies in its ability to mark moments of extremity.
- Severity of Affliction: Its use in the context of the servant with palsy highlights the profound physical pain and helplessness that Jesus confronts with his healing power Matthew 8:6. The word underscores the desperation of the situation.
- Intensity of Opposition: The term characterizes the opposition to Jesus not as simple disagreement, but as an excessive and aggressive hostility from the scribes and Pharisees, who sought to trap him Luke 11:53.
- Indicator of Excess: In both its uses, G1171 signals that a situation has become excessive—either through terrible suffering or vehement antagonism. It focuses the reader's attention on the critical nature of the events unfolding.
In summary, G1171 is a concise adverb that adds significant weight where it appears. Though used only twice, it powerfully illustrates both the depth of human suffering and the intensity of the opposition Jesus faced. It serves to mark a situation as extreme, whether describing a body "grievously" tormented or a mind being "vehemently" provoked.
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