### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word `{{G3999}}` (πεντάκις, *pentákis*) is a multiplicative adverb derived from the cardinal number `{{G4002}}` (πέντε, *pente*), meaning "five." As such, its core meaning is straightforward and precise: "five times." It denotes a specific frequency or repetition of an action or event. Unlike words with broad semantic fields, `{{G3999}}` possesses a narrow and fixed meaning, serving primarily to quantify occurrences. Its function is purely numerical, indicating a specific count rather than conveying inherent qualitative or conceptual nuances.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The term `{{G3999}}` appears only once in the New Testament, yet its singular occurrence carries profound weight within its specific context. This sole instance is found in Paul's impassioned defense of his apostleship and ministry in 2 Corinthians:
* **[[2 Corinthians 11:24]]**: "Five times I received from the Jews the forty lashes minus one."
In this verse, Paul enumerates the immense sufferings he endured for the sake of the Gospel. The phrase "forty lashes minus one" (thirty-nine lashes) refers to a specific form of Jewish corporal punishment, designed to be severe but not fatal, and to adhere to the Mosaic Law's limit of forty lashes (cf. [[Deuteronomy 25:3]]). The cumulative impact of having received this brutal punishment "five times" underscores the extraordinary level of physical torment and persecution Paul willingly bore. This is not merely a historical detail but a testament to the relentless opposition he faced and his unwavering commitment to Christ. The numerical precision "five times" intensifies the reader's understanding of the repeated, severe nature of his trials, contrasting sharply with the boasting of false apostles.
### Related Words & Concepts
As a numerical adverb, `{{G3999}}` is intrinsically linked to the cardinal number `{{G4002}}` (πέντε, *pente*), meaning "five." Other related numerical adverbs in the Greek New Testament include `{{G5140}}` (τρίς, *tris*), meaning "three times," and `{{G1364}}` (δίς, *dis*), meaning "twice." The concept of numerical precision, particularly in recounting sufferings or events, is common in biblical literature. More broadly, the context of `{{G3999}}` in [[2 Corinthians 11:24]] connects it to several significant biblical concepts:
* **Suffering for Christ:** The broader theme of persecution and affliction endured by faithful servants of God (cf. [[Romans 8:17]], [[Philippians 3:10]]).
* **Apostolic Ministry:** The cost and authenticity of true apostleship, often evidenced by endurance in suffering (cf. [[2 Corinthians 6:4-10]]).
* **Endurance and Perseverance:** The steadfastness required in the face of adversity (cf. [[James 1:12]], [[Hebrews 12:1-3]]).
* **Boasting in Weakness:** Paul's paradoxical theology that God's strength is made perfect in human weakness (cf. [[2 Corinthians 12:9-10]]).
### Theological Significance
While `{{G3999}}` itself is a simple numerical adverb, its singular use in [[2 Corinthians 11:24]] imbues it with profound theological significance, primarily through its contextual contribution to Paul's narrative. The mention of being flogged "five times" serves several theological purposes:
1. **Authenticity of Apostolic Ministry:** Paul uses this precise detail to validate his apostolic calling. Unlike the false apostles who boasted in worldly achievements, Paul's "boasting" was in his sufferings for Christ. The repeated, severe floggings demonstrate a genuine commitment and sacrifice that authenticate his claim to be a true servant of God, chosen and empowered by Christ.
2. **The Cost of Discipleship:** The enumeration of "five times" highlights the immense personal cost involved in proclaiming the Gospel. It underscores that following Christ, particularly in a leadership capacity, often involves severe persecution and physical hardship. This serves as a sober reminder to believers of the potential price of faithfulness.
3. **Divine Strength in Human Weakness:** Paul's catalogue of sufferings, including these five floggings, culminates in his theological assertion that God's power is most evident in human weakness ([[2 Corinthians 12:9-10]]). The very fact that Paul survived and continued his ministry after such repeated and brutal treatment points to a divine sustaining power beyond human capability. The "five times" is a concrete manifestation of this principle.
4. **Empathy and Solidarity:** For the Corinthian believers, hearing the specific number "five times" would evoke a deeper sense of empathy for Paul's plight and a greater appreciation for his unwavering dedication to their spiritual welfare. It fosters solidarity between the apostle and the church, grounded in shared experience of Christ's suffering.
### Summary
The Greek word `{{G3999}}` (πεντάκις, *pentákis*) precisely means "five times." Though appearing only once in the New Testament, its singular occurrence in [[2 Corinthians 11:24]] is exceptionally significant. Here, Paul recounts receiving the severe "forty lashes minus one" on "five times" different occasions. This specific numerical detail serves as a powerful testament to the intensity and frequency of the physical suffering Paul endured for the sake of the Gospel. Theologically, it underscores the authenticity of Paul's apostolic ministry, illustrates the profound cost of discipleship, exemplifies the principle of divine strength perfected in human weakness, and fosters empathy within the believing community. Thus, `{{G3999}}`, despite its simple numerical definition, carries a weighty contextual meaning that contributes significantly to our understanding of Paul's life, ministry, and theology of suffering.
TRV