from ἐν and (to snort with anger); to have indignation on, i.e. (transitively) to blame, (intransitively) to sigh with chagrin, (specially) to sternly enjoin:--straitly charge, groan, murmur against.
### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **embrimáomai**, represented by `{{G1690}}`, conveys a strong sense of indignation or deep emotion. Derived from ἐν `{{G1722}}` and a word meaning to snort with anger, its base definition includes to have indignation on, to blame, to sigh with chagrin, or to sternly enjoin. It appears **5 times** across **5 unique verses** in the Bible, indicating its specific and powerful usage.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The uses of `{{G1690}}` reveal its dual nature of expressing internal emotion and external command. In the context of Lazarus's death, Jesus{G2424} "groaned"{G1690} in the spirit{G4151} [[John 11:33]] and was "groaning"{G1690} in himself as he approached the grave{G3419} [[John 11:38]], showing a profound, visceral response to sorrow. Conversely, it is used to describe a stern, authoritative command, as when Jesus{G2424} "straitly charged"{G1690} the men whose eyes{G3788} were opened{G455} [[Matthew 9:30]] and when he "straitly charged"{G1690} another and sent{G1544} him away{G1544} [[Mark 1:43]]. It can also mean to murmur against or blame, as when some "murmured against"{G1690} the woman with the expensive ointment [[Mark 14:5]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words clarify the context of `{{G1690}}`:
* `{{G5015}}` **tarássō** (trouble): This word is used in conjunction with `{{G1690}}` when Jesus "groaned in the spirit, and was troubled" [[John 11:33]], illustrating the deep inner agitation that accompanies the groaning.
* `{{G3004}}` **légō** (saying): This often introduces the content of the stern command, as when Jesus "straitly charged them, saying, See that no man know it" [[Matthew 9:30]], linking the intense injunction to a specific verbal instruction.
* `{{G1544}}` **ekbállō** (to eject): This word describes the action following the command in Mark, where Jesus "straitly charged him, and forthwith sent him away" [[Mark 1:43]], showing that the stern charge could be paired with an equally forceful action.
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of `{{G1690}}` is evident in its various applications:
* **Christ's Divine Empathy:** Jesus' use of `{{G1690}}` as "groaning" reveals His deep emotional response to human suffering and death. When He saw Mary weeping{G2799}, He "groaned in the spirit" [[John 11:33]], demonstrating a profound connection to human sorrow.
* **The Authority of Jesus' Commands:** When translated as "straitly charged," the word underscores the non-negotiable authority of Jesus' words. He uses it to command silence after a healing ([[Matthew 9:30]], [[Mark 1:43]]), highlighting the seriousness and purpose behind His instructions.
* **Human Indignation:** The disciples "murmured against" the woman who anointed Jesus, an act stemming from their perspective on how the money from the ointment, which might have been sold{G4097}, could have been given{G1325} to the poor{G4434} [[Mark 14:5]]. This use of `{{G1690}}` captures a sense of blame and indignation rooted in human judgment.
### Summary
In summary, `{{G1690}}` is a potent term expressing intense feeling that ranges from internal anguish to forceful external commands. It captures the deep groaning of Jesus in the face of death, the stern authority with which He issues commands, and the indignant murmuring of others. Though used sparingly, **embrimáomai** provides a powerful insight into moments of profound emotion and authoritative declarations in the biblical narrative.
TRV