### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **odýnē**, represented by `{{G3601}}`, is defined as a grief that is dejecting, or **sorrow**. Derived from δύνω, it appears only **2 times** across **2 unique verses** in the Bible. Its rarity suggests it describes a particularly sharp or profound form of inner pain.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In its biblical contexts, `{{G3601}}` signifies a deep and consuming anguish. In [[Romans 9:2]], the word is used to describe the "continual **sorrow** in my heart" that the Apostle Paul feels. It is paired with "great heaviness" `{{G3077}}` to emphasize the weight of this emotion. The second instance, in [[1 Timothy 6:10]], links this kind of suffering directly to sinful desire, stating that those who have coveted after money have "pierced themselves through with many **sorrows**."
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the nature of this sorrow:
* `{{G3077}}` **lýpē** (sadness:--grief, grievous, + grudgingly, heaviness, sorrow): Used in [[Romans 9:2]] as "heaviness" alongside `{{G3601}}`, this term points to a state of sadness and grief that is closely associated with this intense sorrow.
* `{{G2588}}` **kardía** (the heart, i.e. (figuratively) the thoughts or feelings (mind)): This word is crucial as it identifies the location of the sorrow in [[Romans 9:2]], showing that odýnē is an internal, deeply felt emotion residing in the heart.
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of `{{G3601}}` is revealed in the two distinct sources of the sorrow it depicts.
* **A Consequence of Sin:** The term is presented as a painful, self-inflicted wound. According to [[1 Timothy 6:10]], this sorrow is the direct result of straying from "the faith" due to the "love of money," which is called "the root of all evil."
* **An Empathetic Burden:** The word also describes a profound and "continual" grief carried within the heart, as experienced by Paul [[Romans 9:2]]. This suggests a sorrow that can arise from intense spiritual concern for others.
### Summary
In summary, `{{G3601}}` odýnē is not a term for general sadness but for a piercing and consuming **sorrow**. Though used infrequently, its appearances are powerful, framing it as a profound internal anguish that can either be a spiritual burden felt in the heart or the painful consequence of being led astray by worldly desires.
TRV