### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **peripeírō**, represented by `{{G4044}}`, means to penetrate entirely or to transfix. It is used figuratively in scripture with the meaning to **pierce through**. This specific term appears **2 times** across **1 unique verses** in the Bible, making its single appearance highly significant.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In its sole biblical context, `{{G4044}}` is used to create a powerful figurative image of self-inflicted harm. The passage warns that the love of money is a root of evil and that those who covet it have strayed from the faith. This deviation results in them having **pierced** themselves **through** with many sorrows, illustrating a deep, personal, and painful consequence of their actions [[1 Timothy 6:10]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related Greek words from its context in [[1 Timothy 6:10]] help to clarify the meaning of `{{G4044}}`:
* `{{G5365}}` **philargyría** (love of money): Defined as avarice, this is presented as the motivation that leads to the spiritual injury described. It is called the root of all evil in its only scriptural appearance [[1 Timothy 6:10]].
* `{{G635}}` **apoplanáō** (err, seduce): Meaning to lead astray or stray from the truth. This action of having **erred** from the faith is the direct precursor to being pierced through with sorrows [[1 Timothy 6:10]].
* `{{G3601}}` **odýnē** (sorrow): This word for grief is the direct result of the action of `{{G4044}}`. The "piercing" is not without consequence, as it brings about "many **sorrows**" [[1 Timothy 6:10]].
* `{{G4102}}` **pístis** (faith): This is what is abandoned by those who covet money. The act of erring from the **faith** leads to the state of being pierced through [[1 Timothy 6:10]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G4044}}` is concentrated in its vivid depiction of sin's consequences.
* **The Danger of Avarice:** The word powerfully illustrates the end result of the **love of money** `{{G5365}}`. This desire is shown to be the **root** `{{G4491}}` of all kinds of **evil** `{{G2556}}`, culminating in a deep, self-inflicted wound [[1 Timothy 6:10]].
* **Departure from Faith:** The act of being "pierced through" is directly connected to having **erred** `{{G635}}` from the **faith** `{{G4102}}`. This shows that abandoning faith for worldly gain leads to profound spiritual harm.
* **Self-Inflicted Suffering:** The phrasing "pierced themselves through" underscores that the resulting **sorrows** `{{G3601}}` are a direct, personal consequence of an individual's choices, rather than an external punishment.
### Summary
In summary, `{{G4044}}` is a rare but impactful word. While appearing in only one verse, it provides a stark and unforgettable image of spiritual self-destruction. It serves as a solemn warning, graphically connecting the love of money to the act of straying from the faith and the inevitable, painful sorrows that result from that choice.
TRV