### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **paroxýnō**, represented by `{{G3947}}`, is defined as being sharpened alongside, or figuratively, to be exasperated. It appears **3 times** across **2 unique verses** in the Bible. The term is used in translations as "easily provoke" or to "stir," indicating a strong internal reaction.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In its biblical usage, `{{G3947}}` illustrates two distinct types of inner agitation. It is used to describe a quality that divine love does not possess, stating that love is **not easily provoked** [[1 Corinthians 13:5]]. In contrast, it is also used to describe the righteous response of the Apostle Paul in Athens, where his **spirit was stirred** within him upon seeing the city's idolatry [[Acts 17:16]]. These contexts show the word can signify both a negative, carnal reaction and a deep, spiritual response to external circumstances.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the meaning of `{{G3947}}` within its scriptural context:
* `{{G807}}` **aschēmonéō** (to be i.e. act unbecoming): This word appears alongside `{{G3947}}` in the description of love, noting that love does not **behave itself unseemly** [[1 Corinthians 13:5]], tying provocation to uncomely behavior.
* `{{G4151}}` **pneûma** (a spirit... the rational soul... mental disposition): This is the part of Paul that was **stirred** `{{G3947}}` in Athens [[Acts 17:16]], indicating that the reaction was not merely emotional but rooted in his spirit. The fruit of the **Spirit** includes qualities that stand in contrast to being easily provoked [[Galatians 5:22]].
* `{{G2556}}` **kakós** (worthless... depraved, or... injurious): In the same list of love's characteristics, the text states that love "thinketh no **evil**" [[1 Corinthians 13:5]], suggesting that being provoked is linked to reckoning or imputing injurious thoughts toward others.
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G3947}}` lies in its ability to distinguish between righteous and unrighteous inner turmoil.
* **The Nature of Divine Love:** The word is used negatively to define a core aspect of Christian love. To not be **easily provoked** is to exhibit a character that does not keep a record of wrongs or react with exasperation, which is contrary to love's nature [[1 Corinthians 13:5]].
* **Righteous Spiritual Response:** Paul’s experience in Athens demonstrates a righteous "provoking" or "stirring." His **spirit** `{{G4151}}` was stirred by idolatry, not out of personal insult, but out of a deep-seated reaction to what dishonors God [[Acts 17:16]].
* **Avoiding Sinful Anger:** The admonition in [[1 Corinthians 13:5]] serves as a caution against a specific type of sin. Being "easily provoked" is presented as a failure alongside other unloving actions like behaving unseemly `{{G807}}` and seeking one's own `{{G2212}}`.
### Summary
In summary, `{{G3947}}` is a nuanced term that describes a sharp internal reaction. It is not inherently negative, as it can describe a spirit stirred for a righteous cause. However, its most prominent use in Scripture serves as a powerful warning that being "easily provoked" is a direct contradiction to the character of divine love, which does not behave unseemly or think evil of others. The word challenges believers to discern the source and nature of their inner stirrings.
TRV