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."
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.
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.
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.
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