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.
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.
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.
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.
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