### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **odynáō**, represented by `{{G3600}}`, is a term for deep emotional distress, defined as **to grieve, sorrow, or torment**. It appears **4 times** across **4 unique verses** in the Bible. This word conveys a state of intense suffering, whether emotional or physical.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{G3600}}` is used to describe both severe physical agony and profound emotional grief. It depicts the state of the rich man in the afterlife, who cries out, "I am **tormented** in this flame" [[Luke 16:24]]. This state is confirmed by Abraham, who contrasts the rich man's suffering with Lazarus's comfort, stating, "thou art **tormented**" [[Luke 16:25]]. The word also captures deep emotional pain, as when Jesus's parents "have sought thee **sorrowing**" [[Luke 2:48]], and when the Ephesian elders were "**Sorrowing** most of all" at the thought of never seeing Paul again [[Acts 20:38]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words provide context for the experience of sorrow and torment:
* `{{G1653}}` **eleéō** (to compassionate... have mercy on): This is sought as a direct remedy for the torment described by `{{G3600}}`. The rich man in the flame begs Abraham to "**have mercy** on me" [[Luke 16:24]].
* `{{G3870}}` **parakaléō** (to call near... be of good comfort): This word is presented as the direct opposite of torment. In the parable, Abraham explains that while the rich man is tormented, Lazarus "is **comforted**" [[Luke 16:25]].
* `{{G2212}}` **zētéō** (to seek): The state of sorrowing is often linked to an action. Mary expresses the distress she and Joseph experienced during their search for the young Jesus, saying they "**have sought** thee sorrowing" [[Luke 2:48]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G3600}}` is found in its portrayal of suffering and its sources.
* **Consequence and Justice:** The word is used to describe the torment of the rich man after death, illustrating a state of suffering that serves as a direct consequence for his actions in life [[Luke 16:25]]. It is a plea for mercy `{{G1653}}` from a state of irreversible agony [[Luke 16:24]].
* **The Grief of Separation:** The sorrow of the Ephesian elders demonstrates the profound pain associated with separation and loss within the community of believers. Their grief was tied specifically to the words Paul **spake** `{{G2046}}` that they would see him no more [[Acts 20:38]].
* **Human Anguish:** The use of "sorrowing" to describe Mary and Joseph's search for Jesus grounds this intense emotion in the context of human, familial relationships. It reflects the natural distress felt by parents for their child [[Luke 2:48]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G3600}}` is more than a general term for sadness. It is a specific descriptor for acute distress, encompassing both the torment of eternal consequence and the deep sorrow of temporal loss. It illustrates how a single word can convey different facets of suffering, from the profound grief of separation between believers [[Acts 20:38]] to the anguish experienced as a result of one's earthly life [[Luke 16:24]].
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