The Greek word pagís, represented by G3803, is defined as a snare. Derived from a word meaning to fasten, it refers to a trap, often one with a noose or notch. Figuratively, it signifies a trick, stratagem, or temptation. This term appears 5 times across 5 unique verses in the Bible.
In its biblical usage, G3803 consistently refers to a figurative trap that endangers a person spiritually. It is used to describe the sudden and universal nature of a future event that will come upon the whole earth like a snare Luke 21:35. The term is explicitly linked to the devil, warning that a church leader without a good reputation may fall into reproach and "the snare of the devil" 1 Timothy 3:7, or that people must recover themselves from this snare after being taken captive by him 2 Timothy 2:26. It also serves as a warning against worldly desires, stating that those who want to be rich fall into temptation and a snare 1 Timothy 6:9. In a quotation from David, it is used as a curse, asking that the table of his enemies become a snare and a trap Romans 11:9.
Several related words help to clarify the context and meaning of G3803:
- G2221 zōgréō (to take alive... to capture or ensnare): This word is used in conjunction with G3803 to describe those who are in the snare of the devil as being "taken captive" by him 2 Timothy 2:26.
- G2339 thḗra (hunting, i.e. (figuratively) destruction:--trap): This appears alongside G3803 in Romans 11:9, where a table is wished to become both a "snare" and a "trap."
- G3680 oneidismós (contumely:--reproach): This is presented as a danger that accompanies the snare of the devil, where one can fall into "reproach and the snare" 1 Timothy 3:7.
- G3986 peirasmós (a putting to proof... temptation): This is closely associated with G3803, as seen in the warning that the desire for riches causes one to fall into "temptation and a snare" 1 Timothy 6:9.
- G4625 skándalon (a trap-stick... snare (figuratively, cause of displeasure or sin):--occasion to fall... stumblingblock): This word is used in parallel with G3803 to describe a table becoming a "snare," a "trap," and a "stumblingblock" Romans 11:9.
The theological significance of G3803 is centered on the concept of spiritual danger and entrapment.
- Demonic Stratagem: The term is twice directly attributed to the devil, identifying him as the one who sets these traps for believers. In 2 Timothy 2:26, those caught in the snare are described as having been "taken captive" by him.
- Moral and Material Peril: Scripture uses G3803 to warn that worldly ambitions, specifically the desire to be rich, act as a snare that leads people into "foolish and hurtful lusts" 1 Timothy 6:9.
- Sudden Judgment: The word illustrates the inescapable and sudden nature of a future event coming upon all humanity, emphasizing its comprehensive reach "on the face of the whole earth" Luke 21:35.
- Instrument of Recompense: In the context of Romans 11:9, the snare functions as a form of divine retribution or recompense against those who have set themselves against God's purposes.
In summary, G3803 pagís is a potent figurative word for a snare. It is not used for a physical object but to describe spiritual, moral, and eschatological dangers. Whether set by the devil, arising from worldly temptations, or functioning as an instrument of divine judgment, the snare represents a perilous trap that can lead to ruin, making it a critical term for understanding biblical warnings about spiritual warfare and vigilance.
TRV