### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek noun πεῖρα (peîra), Strong's `{{G3984}}`, carries the fundamental meaning of "a test," "an attempt," or "an experience." Its etymological root is linked to the idea of "piercing" (from πέραν), suggesting an act of penetrating, proving, or trying something to its core. This implies a rigorous examination or an undertaking that ventures into the unknown or challenging. The semantic range encompasses:
1. **Testing or Proving:** An evaluation designed to ascertain the quality, strength, or character of something or someone. This can be a neutral process or one with a specific purpose, such as refinement or exposure.
2. **Attempt or Endeavor:** An effort or undertaking to achieve a goal, often implying a venture into a difficult or uncertain situation. The success or failure of the attempt is inherent in the concept.
3. **Experience:** Knowledge or skill gained through observation or participation in events, particularly those involving a trial or encounter. This sense emphasizes the learning and maturation that can result from such engagements.
Unlike `{{G3986}}` (πειρασμός), which often carries the specific connotation of temptation designed to lead to sin, πεῖρα is a broader term that can describe any kind of test or trial, whether for good or ill, and can be neutral in its moral implication.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The noun πεῖρα appears sparingly in the New Testament, with its significant occurrences found within the book of Hebrews. Its limited usage, however, provides profound insight into its meaning.
1. **[[Hebrews 11:29]]**: "By faith they passed through the Red Sea as on dry land; but when the Egyptians *attempted* to do so, they were swallowed up." Here, πεῖρα (in its accusative form, *peiran*) is translated as "attempt." The context highlights the Egyptians' presumptuous and faithless endeavor to replicate the miracle performed by God through Moses. Their "attempt" was a trial of their own making, undertaken without divine sanction, and it led to their destruction. This instance underscores the perilous nature of undertakings divorced from faith and divine will.
2. **[[Hebrews 11:36]]**: "Others suffered mocking and flogging, and even chains and imprisonment. They were stoned, they were sawn in two, they were killed with the sword. They went about in sheepskins and goatskins, destitute, afflicted, tormented—of whom the world was not worthy—wandering in deserts and mountains, and in caves and holes in the ground." While πεῖρα itself is not directly translated in many English versions of this verse, the underlying Greek text (e.g., "ἄλλοι δὲ *πειρῶν* ἔλαβον ἐμπαιγμῶν καὶ μαστίγων...") uses the genitive plural form πειρῶν (peirōn), which refers to "trials" or "testings." This verse describes the severe and varied *experiences* or *trials* endured by the faithful saints throughout history. In this context, πεῖρα signifies the crucible of suffering and hardship that proves the genuineness and resilience of faith. These trials were not punitive but served to refine and demonstrate the unwavering commitment of God's people.
### Related Words & Concepts
Understanding πεῖρα is enhanced by examining its relationship with other cognate and semantically related terms:
* **πειράζω (peirazō) `{{G3985}}`**: The verbal form of πεῖρα, meaning "to test," "to try," or "to tempt." This verb is frequently used in the New Testament to describe both divine testing (e.g., God testing Abraham) and satanic temptation.
* **πείρασμος (peirasmos) `{{G3986}}`**: A noun closely related to πεῖρα, often translated as "temptation" or "trial." While πεῖρα is the act of testing, πείρασμος often refers to the specific instance or state of being tested, particularly with the aim of leading one astray.
* **δοκιμάζω (dokimazō) `{{G1381}}`**: A verb meaning "to test," "to examine," or "to approve." This word often implies a test with a view to approval or validation, similar to assaying precious metals. The outcome of δοκιμάζω is often positive, leading to proof or commendation.
* **δοκιμή (dokimē) `{{G1382}}`**: The noun form of δοκιμάζω, signifying "proof," "approval," or "a test that results in approval."
* **θλίψις (thlipsis) `{{G2347}}`**: Meaning "affliction," "tribulation," or "distress." While broader, θλίψις often encompasses the suffering inherent in many πεῖρα experiences.
These related terms highlight the multifaceted biblical understanding of testing, trials, and the proving of faith. πεῖρα stands as a foundational concept for understanding the nature of these experiences.
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of πεῖρα is profound, particularly as revealed in Hebrews. It speaks to:
1. **Divine Sovereignty in Trials**: God is sovereign over all experiences, including the trials faced by His people. While He does not tempt to sin, He permits and uses πεῖρα to refine, strengthen, and demonstrate faith. The trials of the saints in [[Hebrews 11:36]] were not arbitrary but served a divine purpose in the unfolding of redemptive history.
2. **The Proving of Faith**: πεῖρα serves as a crucible for faith. Genuine faith is not merely intellectual assent but is demonstrated through endurance in the face of adversity. The "trial" is not to inform God of our character, but to reveal and strengthen it within us, and to bear witness to the world. This aligns with the broader biblical theme of testing, from Abraham's sacrifice of Isaac (`{{H5254}}` *nāsāh* - to test) to Israel's wilderness wanderings.
3. **Consequences of Presumption**: The "attempt" of the Egyptians in [[Hebrews 11:29]] illustrates the destructive outcome of human presumption and opposition to divine will. It serves as a stark warning that not all "tests" are for refinement; some are the just consequence of rebellion.
4. **Growth through Experience**: The "experience" aspect of πεῖρα underscores that spiritual maturity is often forged in the fires of testing. The faithful saints, through their diverse πεῖρα, gained a deeper knowledge of God's faithfulness and their own reliance upon Him.
### Summary
The Greek word πεῖρα (`{{G3984}}`) denotes a "test," "attempt," or "experience." Though appearing infrequently in the New Testament, its usage in Hebrews is highly instructive. In [[Hebrews 11:29]], it highlights the perilous "attempt" of the Egyptians, demonstrating the destructive consequences of acting presumptuously against God's will. Conversely, in [[Hebrews 11:36]], it refers to the severe "trials" or "experiences" endured by faithful saints, underscoring the refining and proving power of adversity for those who walk by faith. πεῖρα is thus a crucial term for understanding the nature of divine testing, the proving of genuine faith, and the growth that can emerge from challenging circumstances, whether for good or for ill. It stands distinct from `{{G3986}}` (πειρασμός) by its broader scope, encompassing any form of test or trial, not exclusively temptation to sin.
TRV