### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **exaporéomai**, represented by `{{G1820}}`, describes a state of being completely without a way out. Derived from the words ἐκ and ἀπορέω, it means to be utterly at a loss or to despond. It appears only **2 times** across **2 unique verses**, making its usage highly specific and impactful.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In its biblical occurrences, `{{G1820}}` is used by the Apostle Paul to describe the furthest limit of psychological and spiritual anguish. In one instance, he contrasts being "perplexed" with being "in **despair**" [[2 Corinthians 4:8]], creating a distinction between being confused or at a loss and being utterly hopeless. In another context, he recalls a trial in Asia so severe that he and his companions "**despaired** even of life" [[2 Corinthians 1:8]], illustrating a moment where all human hope was exhausted.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related Greek words help frame the intense meaning of `{{G1820}}`:
* `{{G639}}` **aporéō** (to have no way out, i.e. be at a loss (mentally):-- (stand in) doubt, be perplexed.): This is the root word from which `{{G1820}}` is formed. It describes the state of being "perplexed" that Paul experiences but does not succumb to in [[2 Corinthians 4:8]].
* `{{G2346}}` **thlíbō** (to crowd (literally or figuratively):--afflict, narrow, throng, suffer tribulation, trouble.): Describes being "troubled on every side," the external pressure that can lead to internal perplexity or despair [[2 Corinthians 4:8]].
* `{{G4729}}` **stenochōréō** (to hem in closely, i.e. (figuratively) cramp:--distress, straiten.): This term for being "distressed" or hemmed in is what Paul explicitly states he is *not*, despite being troubled [[2 Corinthians 4:8]].
* `{{G2347}}` **thlîpsis** (pressure (literally or figuratively):--afflicted(-tion), anguish, burdened, persecution, tribulation, trouble.): This word is used to name the "trouble" in Asia that was so great it caused the apostles to despair of life [[2 Corinthians 1:8]].
* `{{G2596}}` **katá** (a primary particle...frequently denotes opposition, distribution, or intensity.): This particle is used to show the intensity of the pressure in Asia, which was "out of measure," leading directly to the state of despair [[2 Corinthians 1:8]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G1820}}` is significant in its portrayal of human limits and divine sufficiency.
* **The Boundary of Faith:** By stating "perplexed, but not in **despair**" [[2 Corinthians 4:8]], Paul establishes a theological boundary. Christian faith, while not immune to confusion or hardship, is presented as a bulwark against final, absolute hopelessness.
* **The Reality of Human Frailty:** The admission of having "**despaired** even of life" [[2 Corinthians 1:8]] is a candid acknowledgment of the depths of human suffering. It shows that even the most faithful can be brought to a point where, from a human perspective, there is no way out.
* **A Precursor to Divine Action:** In both contexts, the concept of despair serves to magnify God's power. It is precisely when human strength and hope are gone that God's deliverance becomes most evident, shifting reliance from self to God.
### Summary
In summary, `{{G1820}}` is a potent term that, despite its rare use, is crucial for understanding the biblical view of suffering and hope. It marks the absolute extremity of being at a loss. Through its use, scripture distinguishes between severe trial and ultimate hopelessness, demonstrating that while believers may face situations that bring them to the brink of despair, their faith provides a resource that transcends human frailty.
TRV