### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **lýpē**, represented by `{{G3077}}`, is a primary term for **sadness**, **grief**, or **sorrow**. It appears **16 times** across **14 unique verses** in the Bible. The word encompasses a range of emotional pain, from the **heaviness** of a grieved heart to the **grievous** nature of discipline, and is even used to describe giving **grudgingly**.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In scripture, `{{G3077}}` is presented in several distinct contexts. It is often contrasted with joy, framed as a temporary state that will be overcome. Jesus tells his disciples their **sorrow** will be turned into joy [[John 16:20]]. Paul expresses his concern that a member of the church might be "swallowed up with overmuch **sorrow**" [[2 Corinthians 2:7]], and he speaks of avoiding "sorrow upon **sorrow**" himself [[Philippians 2:27]]. Critically, a distinction is made between two types of sorrow: a worldly **sorrow** that leads to death, and a godly **sorrow** that produces repentance leading to salvation [[2 Corinthians 7:10]]. The disciples are told that **sorrow** has filled their heart because of Jesus' words [[John 16:6]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the meaning and impact of `{{G3077}}`:
* `{{G3076}}` **lypéō** (to be sad): This is the verb form of **lýpē**, meaning to distress or cause grief. It is used when Jesus tells his disciples they will be **sorrowful** for a time [[John 16:20]] and when Peter **was grieved** by Jesus' repeated question [[John 21:17]].
* `{{G5479}}` **chará** (joy): Often used as a direct contrast to **lýpē**, this word for cheerfulness or calm delight represents the state that replaces sorrow. Jesus promises that the disciples' sorrow will turn to **joy** [[John 16:20]].
* `{{G3341}}` **metánoia** (repentance): This term for compunction for guilt is presented as the productive outcome of godly **sorrow** [[2 Corinthians 7:10]].
* `{{G2347}}` **thlîpsis** (anguish): This word for pressure or tribulation is used alongside **lýpē** to describe suffering, as with a woman in labor who has sorrow, but forgets the **anguish** after the child is born [[John 16:21]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G3077}}` is significant, as it distinguishes between destructive and redemptive responses to pain.
* **Productive vs. Destructive Sorrow:** The most critical distinction is between godly **sorrow** and the **sorrow** of the world. Godly **sorrow** is a catalyst for change, working **repentance** `{{G3341}}` unto **salvation** `{{G4991}}`. Worldly **sorrow**, however, works **death** `{{G2288}}` [[2 Corinthians 7:10]].
* **Instrument of Discipline:** Divine **chastening** `{{G3809}}` is described as **grievous** `{{G3077}}` in the moment, but it is purposeful, ultimately yielding the "peaceable fruit of righteousness" [[Hebrews 12:11]].
* **A Temporary Condition:** For the believer, **sorrow** is depicted as a transient experience. The disciples' **sorrow** at Jesus' departure is promised to become joy upon His return [[John 16:22]].
* **A Matter of the Heart:** **Sorrow** is linked to the heart's disposition. Paul speaks of the "continual **sorrow** in my heart" for his kinsmen [[Romans 9:2]], and giving should not come **grudgingly** (from sorrow), for God loves a **cheerful** `{{G2431}}` giver [[2 Corinthians 9:7]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G3077}}` is not a simple term for sadness but a multifaceted concept with profound spiritual implications. It differentiates between a worldly grief that ends in despair and a godly grief that leads to repentance and life. Whether as a temporary state preceding joy, a natural response to divine discipline, or a heart attitude to be guarded against, **lýpē** serves as a key indicator of one's spiritual state and response to the circumstances of life.
TRV