### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **perílypos**, represented by `{{G4036}}`, describes a state of being "grieved all around," or intensely sad. It appears **5 times** across **5 unique verses** in the Bible. Based on its components, περί (all around) and λύπη (grief), the term conveys a profound sorrow that envelops an individual, often translated as "exceeding sorrowful" or "very sorry."
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{G4036}}` is used to express extreme emotional distress in critical moments. It powerfully describes the agony of Jesus in Gethsemane, where he tells his disciples, "My soul is **exceeding sorrowful** unto death" ([[Mark 14:34]]; [[Matthew 26:38]]). The word also captures the reaction of the rich man who, upon hearing Jesus's command, became "**very sorrowful**" because he was very rich [[Luke 18:23]]. A different context is seen with King Herod, who was "**exceeding sorry**" after making an oath that led to the execution of John the Baptist, though his sorrow did not prevent him from fulfilling the rash promise [[Mark 6:26]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words clarify the context and depth of the sorrow expressed by `{{G4036}}`:
* `{{G5590}}` **psychḗ** (soul): Defined as breath, life, mind, or soul, it is the seat of the intense grief described by `{{G4036}}`. In the Garden of Gethsemane, Jesus states that his **soul** is "exceeding sorrowful" [[Matthew 26:38]].
* `{{G2288}}` **thánatos** (death): This term for death, either literal or figurative, is used to qualify the extremity of the sorrow. Jesus's grief is described as being "unto **death**," indicating a level of anguish that is life-threatening [[Mark 14:34]].
* `{{G2036}}` **épō** (to speak or say): This word for speaking is often connected to a state of being `{{G4036}}`. For instance, after Jesus saw that the rich man was "very sorrowful," he then **said**, "How hardly shall they that have riches enter into the kingdom of God!" [[Luke 18:24]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G4036}}` is significant, revealing different sources and outcomes of profound sorrow.
* **The Agony of Christ:** The word's use in Gethsemane provides a stark depiction of Jesus's humanity and the immense spiritual burden he carried. His sorrow is directly tied to his impending suffering and death, revealing a grief that is both deeply personal and redemptive in purpose ([[Matthew 26:38]], [[Mark 14:34]]).
* **Grief from Worldly Attachments:** The "very sorrowful" reaction of the rich man illustrates the spiritual conflict caused by materialism. His sadness stems from the inability to part with his great wealth, a condition Jesus identifies as a major obstacle to entering the kingdom of God [[Luke 18:23]].
* **Regret without Repentance:** King Herod's experience shows a sorrow that is rooted in worldly pressure and a foolish oath. Though he is "exceeding sorry," his grief does not lead him to do what is right, but instead he proceeds with a sinful act to save face before his guests [[Mark 6:26]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G4036}}` is more than a simple term for sadness. It is a powerful descriptor of an all-encompassing grief that is used in Scripture to illustrate profound theological truths. From the sacrificial agony of Christ in the face of death, to the worldly grief of a rich man unable to follow him, and the conflicted sorrow of a king trapped by his own pride, **perílypos** reveals the various depths and dimensions of the human heart in moments of intense trial.
TRV