### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek verb πατάσσω (patássō, `{{G3960}}`) fundamentally signifies "to strike" or "to smite." Its etymological root is likely παίω (paíō, `{{G3817}}`), meaning "to strike, beat." The description of πατάσσω as a "prolongation" from παίω suggests an intensification or a more decisive, impactful form of striking. The semantic range is remarkably broad, extending from a relatively gentle "knock" to a severe or "fatal" blow, often implying the use of a weapon. Unlike some other words for striking, πατάσσω frequently carries a connotation of a definitive, sometimes punitive, action. It is distinct from τύπτω (typtō, `{{G5180}}`), which can imply repeated or disciplinary beating, whereas πατάσσω often denotes a single, decisive strike with significant consequence.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The occurrences of πατάσσω in the New Testament illustrate its diverse applications:
* **Physical Violence and Self-Defense:** In the Gethsemane narrative, the disciples inquire if they should "strike" with the sword ([[Luke 22:49]]), and Peter subsequently "strikes" the high priest's servant, cutting off his ear ([[Matthew 26:51]], [[Mark 14:47]], [[Luke 22:50]]). Here, πατάσσω describes a swift, violent act with a weapon. Similarly, Moses "struck" the Egyptian in defense of an Israelite in [[Acts 7:24]], resulting in the Egyptian's death.
* **Divine Intervention and Judgment:** A powerful use of πατάσσω is found in contexts of divine action. An angel "struck" Peter on the side to wake him in prison ([[Acts 12:7]]), a gentle but effective divine touch for deliverance. More dramatically, the angel of the Lord "struck" Herod Agrippa, leading to his immediate death as an act of divine judgment for his blasphemy ([[Acts 12:23]]). The two witnesses in [[Revelation 11:6]] are granted power to "strike" the earth with plagues, demonstrating a divinely authorized punitive action.
* **Prophetic Fulfillment and Christ's Suffering:** Perhaps one of the most poignant uses is in the prophetic quotation cited by Jesus: "I will strike the shepherd, and the sheep of the flock will be scattered" ([[Matthew 26:31]], [[Mark 14:27]]). This is a direct citation from [[Zechariah 13:7]] (where the LXX uses πατάσσω for the Hebrew נָכָה, `{{H5221}}`). Here, "striking" refers metaphorically to the suffering, betrayal, and ultimate crucifixion of Christ, the Shepherd, leading to the temporary scattering of His disciples.
* **Christ's Future Judgment:** In a climactic vision, Christ is depicted as one who will "strike the nations with a sharp sword" ([[Revelation 19:15]]). This signifies His ultimate triumph, righteous judgment, and decisive conquest over all rebellious powers at His second coming.
### Related Words & Concepts
* **Synonyms/Related Verbs:**
* παίω (paíō, `{{G3817}}`): The root word, "to strike, hit." πατάσσω often implies a more decisive or impactful blow.
* τύπτω (typtō, `{{G5180}}`): "to strike, beat," often with a connotation of repeated blows or disciplinary action.
* δέρω (derō, `{{G1194}}`): "to flay, beat severely," often implying a whipping or scourging.
* πλήσσω (plēssō, `{{G4141}}`): "to strike, wound," often focusing on the resulting injury or affliction.
* **Thematic Concepts:**
* **Judgment:** Both divine and human, often leading to injury, death, or punishment.
* **Divine Sovereignty:** God's power and authority to act decisively in history, whether through deliverance or judgment.
* **Violence:** The physical act of striking, whether in aggression, defense, or as a consequence.
* **Prophetic Fulfillment:** The execution of God's predetermined plan, particularly concerning the suffering and triumph of Christ.
### Theological Significance
The theological import of πατάσσω is multifaceted. Primarily, it underscores the **sovereignty and power of God** in both judgment and deliverance. The instances where God or His agents "strike" (e.g., Herod in [[Acts 12:23]], the earth with plagues in [[Revelation 11:6]], or the nations in [[Revelation 19:15]]) powerfully demonstrate His ultimate authority over life and death, and His righteous indignation against sin and rebellion. This "striking" is not arbitrary but a just execution of divine will.
Secondly, the prophetic declaration "I will strike the shepherd" ([[Matthew 26:31]]) is profoundly significant for **Christology and soteriology**. It reveals that the suffering, betrayal, and crucifixion of Jesus were not random acts of human cruelty but part of God's predetermined plan for the redemption of humanity. The "striking" of the Shepherd, leading to the scattering of the sheep, was a necessary step for the future gathering of God's flock. This highlights the sacrificial nature of Christ's work and the divine orchestration of salvation history.
Lastly, the usage of πατάσσω also illuminates **human action and its consequences**. Peter's impulsive striking of the servant ([[Matthew 26:51]]) illustrates the misguided nature of human violence, even when intended for defense, and contrasts sharply with Christ's non-violent response and healing. This serves as a reminder of the need for divine guidance in all actions.
### Summary
The Greek verb πατάσσω (patássō, `{{G3960}}`) denotes the act of striking or smiting, ranging from a gentle touch to a fatal blow, often implying a decisive impact or the use of a weapon. Its New Testament occurrences reveal significant theological dimensions. It powerfully illustrates God's absolute sovereignty and righteous judgment, as seen in the divine "striking" of Herod ([[Acts 12:23]]) and Christ's future conquest of the nations ([[Revelation 19:15]]). Crucially, it highlights the prophetic fulfillment of Christ's suffering, where God "struck" the Shepherd ([[Matthew 26:31]]) as part of His redemptive plan. While also describing human acts of violence, πατάσσω ultimately points to the powerful and often decisive hand of God in executing His will, whether in judgment, deliverance, or the unfolding of His saving purposes.
TRV