a strengthened form of a primary verb, which only occurs in this and another prolonged form as alternate in certain tenses; to crack open (from a fall):--burst asunder.
### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek lemma λάσχω (láschō), `{{G2997}}`, is described as a strengthened form of a primary verb, indicating an intensified action. Its core meaning is "to crack open (from a fall)," with the English rendering "burst asunder." This definition conveys a sudden, forceful, and destructive physical rupture. The emphasis is on a complete and violent tearing apart, often implying a catastrophic outcome or a consequence of impact. The "strengthened form" suggests that the action is not merely a simple break, but a thorough and irreversible disintegration.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The verb λάσχω (`{{G2997}}`) is exceedingly rare in the New Testament, appearing in its aorist form, ἐλάκησεν, only once, in [[Acts 1:18]]. This singular occurrence describes the horrific death of Judas Iscariot: "Now this man acquired a field with the reward of his wickedness, and falling headlong he burst open in the middle and all his bowels gushed out."
The context is crucial for understanding the significance of λάσχω. The passage in [[Acts 1:18]] serves as Peter's explanation to the disciples regarding Judas's fate. The description of Judas "falling headlong" (πρηνὴς γενόμενος) and subsequently "bursting open in the middle" (ἐλάκησεν μέσος) is a graphic depiction of a violent, internal rupture. This physical disintegration is presented as a direct consequence of his betrayal of Jesus and the "reward of his wickedness" (μισθὸς τῆς ἀδικίας). The vivid imagery underscores the severity of divine judgment and the gruesome end that awaited the betrayer.
### Related Words & Concepts
λάσχω (`{{G2997}}`) belongs to a semantic field of verbs denoting violent breaking, tearing, or splitting. While distinct, it shares conceptual space with words like ῥήγνυμι (rhēgnymi - to break, burst, tear), `{{G4486}}`, and σχίζω (schizō - to split, tear), `{{G4977}}`. The specific nuance of λάσχω is its emphasis on a rupture *from a fall* or internal pressure, leading to a complete "bursting asunder."
The concept of a body violently breaking apart also resonates with Old Testament imagery of divine judgment and the consequences of sin, where physical calamity often mirrors spiritual corruption. The idea of "gushing out" of internal organs is a common ancient idiom for a particularly gruesome and complete destruction.
### Theological Significance
The singular and striking use of λάσχω (`{{G2997}}`) in the New Testament carries profound theological weight due to its association with Judas Iscariot. The gruesome manner of his death, described as "bursting open," is not merely a historical detail but a powerful theological statement. It serves as a vivid illustration of the ultimate consequences of betrayal, apostasy, and unrepentant sin.
The physical disintegration of Judas's body, where he "burst open" and "all his bowels gushed out," symbolically represents the complete spiritual and moral ruin that results from rejecting and betraying Christ. It underscores the principle that sin, particularly of such a heinous nature, leads to utter destruction and dismemberment, both of the self and one's destiny. This passage functions as a solemn warning against the deceptive allure of wickedness and the inevitable, catastrophic judgment that awaits those who choose to walk in unrighteousness. The horror of Judas's end, conveyed through λάσχω, highlights the severity of divine justice and the dire wages of sin.
### Summary
The Greek verb λάσχω (láschō), `{{G2997}}`, powerfully conveys the idea of a violent "cracking open" or "bursting asunder," typically as a consequence of a fall. Its sole New Testament occurrence in [[Acts 1:18]] graphically describes the death of Judas Iscariot, who "fell headlong, he burst open in the middle and all his bowels gushed out." This vivid, singular usage is laden with theological significance, serving as a stark portrayal of the catastrophic consequences of betrayal and unrepentant sin. The physical disintegration of Judas's body, denoted by λάσχω, functions as a potent symbol of the spiritual and moral ruin that results from rejecting Christ, underscoring the severity of divine judgment and the complete, irreversible nature of sin's ultimate wages.
TRV