### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **pentákis**, represented by `{{G3999}}`, is a multiplicative adverb meaning **five times**. It appears only 1 time in 1 verse in the Bible, marking a specific and rare numerical reference. Its sole function is to quantify a repeated event.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In its sole biblical appearance, `{{G3999}}` is used by the Apostle Paul to quantify a specific aspect of his suffering. He states that of the **Jews** `{{G2453}}`, **five times** he received `{{G2983}}` the punishment of **forty** `{{G5062}}` stripes save `{{G3844}}` **one** `{{G3391}}` [[2 Corinthians 11:24]]. This use highlights a severe and recurring ordeal that Paul endured as part of his apostolic ministry.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words from its only context in [[2 Corinthians 11:24]] provide a fuller picture:
* `{{G5259}}` **hypó** (of, under, by): This preposition indicates the agency or source of an action, in this case identifying that the punishment was administered **by** the men mentioned. It is also used to show that believers are loved **of** the Father [[John 14:21]] or that all things were delivered to Jesus **of** His Father [[Matthew 11:27]].
* `{{G2453}}` **Ioudaîos** (Jew): This term, defined as belonging to Jehudah, identifies the source of the persecution Paul endured [[2 Corinthians 11:24]]. The dossier also shows its use to describe both a path to salvation [[Romans 1:16]] and a spiritual identity where there is neither **Jew** nor Greek in Christ [[Galatians 3:28]].
* `{{G2983}}` **lambánō** (to take, receive): This word describes the action of Paul having **received** the punishment. Its broader usage includes receiving power from the Holy Ghost [[Acts 1:8]] or the crown of life [[James 1:12]].
* `{{G5062}}` **tessarákonta** (forty): This word for **forty** specifies the number of stripes. It is frequently associated with periods of significance or trial, such as Jesus appearing for **forty** days after his passion [[Acts 1:3]] or Israel's time in the wilderness [[Acts 7:36]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G3999}}` is derived entirely from its singular, powerful context.
* **Specificity of Suffering:** The use of `{{G3999}}` provides a concrete, numerical testament to the cost of Paul's ministry. It moves the account from a general claim of hardship to a specific, repeated ordeal, emphasizing its severity [[2 Corinthians 11:24]].
* **Endurance and Faithfulness:** This act of receiving `{{G2983}}` punishment **five times** demonstrates a pattern of endurance. This connects to the wider biblical theme of enduring temptation to **receive** the crown of life [[James 1:12]].
* **The Source of Conflict:** The statement that this punishment came from the **Jews** `{{G2453}}` places Paul's suffering within the complex reality of the early church. While salvation is described as coming "of the **Jews**" [[John 4:22]], Paul's experience shows intense opposition from some within that same group.
### Summary
In summary, while `{{G3999}}` is exceptionally rare, its single use is highly significant. It serves as a precise and stark quantifier of suffering. **Pentákis** is not merely a number but a testament to the severe, repeated persecution the Apostle Paul endured, illustrating the profound cost of his faithfulness to the gospel.
TRV