### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **paíō**, represented by `{{G3817}}`, is a primary verb meaning to **hit** or **smite**, typically with a single blow. Its definition distinguishes it as being less violent than other similar terms and includes the special application of a scorpion's **sting**. It appears **5 times** across **5 unique verses** in the Bible.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{G3817}}` is used to describe acts of sudden violence. During the trial of Jesus, He is blindfolded and taunted by His captors who ask Him to prophesy who it was that **smote** Him ([[Matthew 26:68]]; [[Luke 22:64]]). The term is also used for the disciple's action in the garden, who **smote** the high priest's servant with a sword and cut off his ear ([[Mark 14:47]]; [[John 18:10]]). In a different context, the book of Revelation uses `{{G3817}}` to characterize the torment inflicted by symbolic locusts, which is like the pain caused when a scorpion **striketh** a man [[Revelation 9:5]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the specific meaning and context of `{{G3817}}`:
* `{{G5180}}` **týptō** (to "thump", i.e. cudgel or pummel...by repeated blows): The definition of `paíō` contrasts it with `týptō`, which implies a more violent or repeated beating. In [[Luke 22:64]], captors **struck** (`týptō`) Jesus before asking who it was that **smote** (`paíō`) Him.
* `{{G851}}` **aphairéō** (to remove...cut (smite) off, take away): This word shows the consequence of being **smote**. In [[Mark 14:47]], a bystander **smote** the high priest's servant, an act which **cut off** his ear.
* `{{G4395}}` **prophēteúō** (to...prophesy): This provides the context for the blow against Jesus. He is **smote** and then immediately commanded to **prophesy** who the assailant was [[Matthew 26:68]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G3817}}` is seen in the contexts where it appears:
* **Hostility Against the Messiah:** The use of `{{G3817}}` in the accounts of Jesus's trial highlights the physical rejection and mockery He faced. The act of being **smote** is paired with a demand to **prophesy**, showing contempt for His divine identity [[Matthew 26:68]].
* **Misguided Human Action:** The word describes Peter's violent act of striking the high priest's servant [[John 18:10]]. This instance of being **smote** represents a carnal, human response in a moment that called for submission to a divine plan.
* **Supernatural Infliction:** In Revelation, `{{G3817}}` moves from a human act to a supernatural one. The torment from the locusts is compared to the pain when a scorpion **striketh** a man, illustrating a form of divine judgment or torment [[Revelation 9:5]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G3817}}` **paíō** denotes a specific type of impact: a single, deliberate blow or sting. Though appearing only five times, it is used in pivotal moments. It marks the physical mockery of Christ during His passion [[Luke 22:64]], the rash violence of a disciple in the garden [[John 18:10]], and the supernatural torment of divine judgment in Revelation [[Revelation 9:5]]. The word effectively conveys an instant of pointed, personal aggression, whether from a human hand or a scorpion's sting.
TRV