θραύω

Core Meaning & Semantic Range

The Greek word θραύω (thraúō), represented by G2352, is a primary verb meaning to crush or bruise. It is a rare term, appearing only 1 time in 1 unique verse in the Bible.

Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis

The sole appearance of G2352 is found in Luke's Gospel, where Jesus announces his mission by reading from a prophecy. He declares that he has been sent "to set at liberty them that are bruised" Luke 4:18. In this context, the word is used to describe those who have been crushed or oppressed, connecting a state of injury to a need for divine liberation.

Related Words & Concepts

Several related words in the same passage clarify the meaning of being bruised:

• G4937 syntríbō (to crush completely): This word appears in the same verse to describe the "brokenhearted" Luke 4:18. It signifies being shattered and reinforces the theme of profound affliction that Christ came to heal.
• G859 áphesis (freedom; pardon): Translated as "deliverance" for the captives and "liberty" for the bruised, this term describes the release and freedom that Christ's mission provides to the oppressed Luke 4:18.
• G164 aichmálōtos (a prisoner of war; captive): This term for captives is used in parallel with those who are bruised, highlighting a state of bondage from which liberation is promised Luke 4:18.
• G2390 iáomai (to cure): This word, translated as heal, is part of the same declaration of purpose, underscoring that the mission to the brokenhearted and bruised is one of restorative healing Luke 4:18.

Theological Significance

The theological weight of G2352 is centered on its role in defining Christ's purpose.

• Christ's Mission to the Oppressed: Its use in Jesus' inaugural sermon establishes that His ministry is specifically directed toward those who are crushed, downtrodden, and afflicted Luke 4:18.
• A State Requiring Liberation: The condition of being "bruised" is presented as a form of bondage requiring one to be "set at liberty" G859, framing salvation as an act of release from crushing spiritual and emotional burdens.
• Comprehensive Restoration: Paired with healing the brokenhearted G4937, freeing captives G164, and restoring sight to the blind G5185, the term illustrates the holistic nature of the restoration Jesus brings to humanity.

Summary

In summary, while thraúō G2352 is used only once, its placement in scripture is highly significant. It defines a specific aspect of the human condition—being crushed or bruised—that Jesus explicitly came to address. Its singular use in Luke 4:18 encapsulates the heart of Christ's mission: to bring liberty to the oppressed and healing to those who have been broken by the weight of their circumstances.