### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek adverb δεινῶς (`{{G1171}}`) derives from a root associated with fear and dread, specifically from a derivative of the same root as δειλός (`{{G1169}}`), meaning "cowardly" or "timid." While δειλός describes a state of fear, δεινῶς describes something that *causes* or *evokes* intense fear, awe, or dread due to its severity or extremity. Its core meaning thus encompasses "terribly," "excessively," "grievously," or "vehemently." It modifies verbs, indicating the high degree or intense manner in which an action is performed or a state exists. The word conveys a sense of overwhelming intensity, often in a negative or distressing context, highlighting the severity of a condition or action.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The adverb δεινῶς (`{{G1171}}`) appears notably in the New Testament in the Gospel of Matthew:
* **[[Matthew 8:6]]**: "Lord, my servant is lying at home paralyzed, suffering terribly (δεινῶς βασανιζόμενος)."
In this significant passage, a Roman Centurion approaches Jesus, appealing for the healing of his servant. The term δεινῶς here modifies the participle βασανιζόμενος ("being tormented" or "suffering"). It underscores the extreme and agonizing nature of the servant's paralysis. It is not merely an inconvenience or a mild illness; the servant is "grievously" or "terribly" tormented, indicating intense pain and incapacitation. This vivid description emphasizes the profound suffering that prompts the Centurion's urgent plea to Jesus and sets the stage for the remarkable display of Jesus's healing power. The severity conveyed by δεινῶς highlights the dire need for divine intervention and magnifies the compassion and authority of Christ.
### Related Words & Concepts
The etymological link between δεινῶς (`{{G1171}}`) and δειλός (`{{G1169}}`, "cowardly," "fearful") is crucial. While δειλός describes an internal state of fear, δεινῶς describes an external reality or condition that is so severe or dreadful that it naturally *induces* fear, alarm, or intense concern.
Related concepts include:
* **Intensity**: The word speaks to the degree of an action or state, emphasizing its extremity.
* **Suffering and Torment**: As seen in [[Matthew 8:6]], δεινῶς is directly associated with profound physical or emotional anguish.
* **Urgency**: The severity implied by δεινῶς often creates a sense of immediate need or crisis.
* **Magnitude**: It expresses the great extent or scale of something, whether it be pain, a problem, or an action.
Conceptual parallels can be drawn with other adverbs of intensity such as σφοδρῶς (`{{G4970}}`, "vehemently, exceedingly") or πολύ (`{{G4183}}`, "much, greatly"), though δεινῶς often carries a stronger connotation of distress or dread.
### Theological Significance
The use of δεινῶς (`{{G1171}}`) in [[Matthew 8:6]] carries significant theological weight.
1. **Human Vulnerability and Suffering**: The word powerfully articulates the depth of human suffering and the fragility of life in a fallen world. It portrays a condition of extreme distress that is beyond human remedy, highlighting humanity's desperate need for divine intervention.
2. **Divine Compassion and Power**: The δεινῶς afflicted servant immediately draws forth the compassion of Jesus. The severity of the torment serves to magnify the miraculous healing that follows. It underscores that Jesus's power is not limited to minor ailments but extends to the most "grievous" and seemingly incurable conditions. This demonstrates His supreme authority over sickness, pain, and the forces of decay.
3. **The Nature of Christ's Ministry**: Jesus's willingness and ability to address such extreme suffering illustrate the core of His redemptive mission: to bring healing and liberation to those who are most oppressed and afflicted. The δεινῶς tormented serve as a poignant example of those for whom Christ came to minister.
4. **Faith in the Face of Despair**: The Centurion's faith is particularly striking when viewed against the backdrop of his servant's δεινῶς condition. Despite the dire circumstances, he holds an unwavering belief in Jesus's power to heal with a mere word, demonstrating a profound trust that transcends the severity of the situation.
### Summary
The Greek adverb δεινῶς (`{{G1171}}`) signifies "terribly," "excessively," "grievously," or "vehemently," stemming from a root associated with fear-inducing severity. It describes a high degree or intense manner, often in a distressing context. Its primary New Testament usage in [[Matthew 8:6]] vividly portrays the Centurion's servant as "grievously tormented" (δεινῶς βασανιζόμενος), emphasizing the profound and agonizing nature of his suffering. Theologically, δεινῶς highlights the depth of human vulnerability, the compassionate and authoritative power of Jesus to heal even the most severe afflictions, and the remarkable faith that recognizes His divine capacity in the face of overwhelming despair.
TRV