### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **emptýō**, represented by `{{G1716}}`, is a verb meaning **to spit at or on**. It is formed from the words ἐν and πτύω. According to biblical usage statistics, this term appears **6 times** across **6 unique verses**, making it a highly specific and focused word within scripture.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{G1716}}` is used exclusively to describe the humiliation and suffering of Jesus Christ. It first appears in prophecies by Jesus himself, where he foretells that he will be delivered to the Gentiles to be "mocked, and spitefully entreated, and **spitted on**" [[Luke 18:32]]. This prediction is then explicitly fulfilled during his trial and crucifixion, where his captors "did **spit** in his face, and buffeted him" [[Matthew 26:67]] and later, Roman soldiers "did **spit** upon him" before smiting him with a reed [[Matthew 27:30]].
### Related Words & Concepts
The act of spitting is consistently paired with other forms of abuse, highlighting its context of extreme contempt. Several related words appear alongside it:
* `{{G1702}}` **empaízō** (to jeer at, i.e. deride:--mock): This word is frequently used in the same context to describe the verbal derision Jesus faced along with being spat upon [[Mark 10:34]].
* `{{G2852}}` **kolaphízō** (to rap with the fist:--buffet): This describes the physical violence that accompanied the spitting, as seen when they spat in his face and **buffeted** him [[Matthew 26:67]].
* `{{G3146}}` **mastigóō** (to flog (literally or figuratively):--scourge): This severe physical punishment is prophesied alongside spitting as part of the suffering Jesus would endure [[Mark 10:34]].
* `{{G5180}}` **týptō** (to "thump", i.e. cudgel or pummel...:--beat, smite, strike, wound): In one account, after spitting on Jesus, his tormentors **smote** him on the head with a reed [[Mark 15:19]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G1716}}` is tied directly to the passion of Christ. Its usage underscores several key truths about His suffering:
* **Fulfillment of Prophecy:** The appearance of the word confirms Jesus's own foreknowledge of the specific indignities he would suffer, establishing the events as part of a sovereign plan [[Luke 18:32]].
* **Depth of Humiliation:** Spitting is a profound act of scorn and rejection. Its inclusion in the passion accounts emphasizes the extreme contempt and degradation Jesus endured on behalf of humanity [[Matthew 26:67]].
* **An Element of Atoning Suffering:** The act is listed as an integral component of the abuse Jesus suffered, alongside being mocked, scourged, and ultimately killed [[Mark 10:34]], showing the multifaceted nature of his sacrifice.
### Summary
In summary, `{{G1716}}` is a precise and powerful term used exclusively to detail a specific act of abuse against Jesus. While it appears only a few times, its context is consistent and significant, always appearing alongside other words of mockery and violence like **empaízō** (mock) and **kolaphízō** (buffet). The use of **emptýō** serves as a stark reminder of the profound humiliation and contempt that Christ willingly endured in fulfillment of prophecy.
TRV