### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **kéntron**, represented by `{{G2759}}`, refers to a point, specifically a **sting** or a **prick** used as a goad. It appears **5 times** across **5 unique verses** in the Bible. The term can describe a literal, sharp instrument or be used figuratively to denote a source of poison, pain, or a divine impulse that directs action.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In its biblical usage, `{{G2759}}` carries two distinct meanings. Figuratively, it is used to describe the mortal weapon of **death** `{{G2288}}`, which is identified as **sin** `{{G266}}` in the declaration, "The **sting** of death is sin" [[1 Corinthians 15:56]]. This concept is presented as a taunt against a defeated enemy: "O death, where is thy **sting**?" [[1 Corinthians 15:55]]. The word is also used to mean "pricks" or goads, as when Jesus confronts Saul on the road to Damascus, stating it is difficult for him to **kick** `{{G2979}}` against the **pricks** ([[Acts 9:5]], [[Acts 26:14]]). In a literal sense, it describes the weapons of scorpion-like creatures in a vision of judgment [[Revelation 9:10]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the context and meaning of `{{G2759}}`:
* `{{G2288}}` **thánatos** (death): The entity said to wield the **sting**. It is personified as a power that has been overcome [[1 Corinthians 15:55]].
* `{{G266}}` **hamartía** (sin): Explicitly defined as the **sting** of death, highlighting sin as the true source of death's destructive power [[1 Corinthians 15:56]].
* `{{G4651}}` **skorpíos** (scorpion): The creature whose tail is equipped with literal **stings** `{{G2759}}` as a means to **hurt** `{{G91}}` men [[Revelation 9:10]].
* `{{G2979}}` **laktízō** (kick): This verb describes the act of resisting the **pricks** `{{G2759}}`, illustrating a futile struggle against a divine impulse ([[Acts 9:5]], [[Acts 26:14]]).
* `{{G3534}}` **nîkos** (victory): This term is used in direct contrast to the **sting** of death, signifying the triumph over death and its weapon [[1 Corinthians 15:55]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G2759}}` is significant, touching on core doctrines of sin, salvation, and divine sovereignty.
* **The Power of Sin:** The term is key to understanding the relationship between sin and death. By defining sin as the "sting of death," scripture teaches that sin is the very mechanism by which death exercises its power over humanity [[1 Corinthians 15:56]].
* **Divine Impulse and Resistance:** As "pricks" or goads, the word illustrates the concept of God's sovereign call. Saul's persecution of the church is framed as him kicking against divine prodding, a painful and ultimately useless act of resistance against God's will [[Acts 26:14]].
* **Instruments of Judgment:** In Revelation, the literal **stings** of scorpion-like beings are instruments of divine judgment. Their **power** `{{G1849}}` to **hurt** `{{G91}}` is given to them, demonstrating that even torment serves a purpose within God's sovereign plan [[Revelation 9:10]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G2759}}` is a multifaceted word that moves between the literal and the figurative. It serves to illustrate profound theological truths, whether as the **sting** of death which is sin, the "pricks" of divine influence that cannot be resisted without pain, or the literal weapons of judgment. Through this single term, scripture conveys ideas of fatal consequence, irresistible divine will, and righteous retribution.
TRV