### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **pikraínō**, represented by `{{G4087}}`, is used to **embitter**, both literally and figuratively. According to its base definition, it means to be or make **bitter**. It appears **6 times** across **4 unique verses** in the Bible, highlighting its specific applications.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In its biblical usage, `{{G4087}}` is applied in two distinct ways: figuratively in relationships and literally in prophetic visions. In Paul's epistle to the Colossians, it serves as a direct command for **husbands** `{{G435}}` to love their wives and **not be bitter** against them [[Colossians 3:19]]. In the book of Revelation, the term is used literally. First, it describes a catastrophic judgment where a star named Wormwood turns a third of the waters fatally **bitter** [[Revelation 8:11]]. It is also used to describe the dual experience of the apostle John, who eats a little book that will **make** his belly **bitter** [[Revelation 10:9]] and confirms that after he ate it, his belly **was bitter** [[Revelation 10:10]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the meaning of `{{G4087}}` through contrast and context:
* `{{G1099}}` **glykýs** (sweet): This word provides a direct contrast to bitterness. In John's vision, the little book is **sweet** as honey in his mouth but makes his belly bitter upon being eaten [[Revelation 10:9]].
* `{{G894}}` **ápsinthos** (wormwood): This term is the agent of bitterness in an apocalyptic judgment. A star called **Wormwood** is the cause of the waters being made bitter [[Revelation 8:11]].
* `{{G25}}` **agapáō** (to love): Used in the same command as `{{G4087}}`, it establishes love as the proper disposition for husbands, in direct opposition to being bitter [[Colossians 3:19]].
* `{{G435}}` **anḗr** (husband, man): This word identifies who is being commanded not to be bitter, placing the figurative use of `{{G4087}}` squarely within the context of marital relationships [[Colossians 3:19]].
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of `{{G4087}}` is focused on its role in defining sin, judgment, and the nature of divine revelation.
* **Relational Corruption:** The command in [[Colossians 3:19]] frames bitterness not just as an emotion but as a sinful action to be avoided in a covenant relationship, setting it as an antonym to Christ-like **love** `{{G25}}`.
* **Instrument of Judgment:** In Revelation, bitterness becomes a literal weapon of divine judgment. The waters are "made **bitter**," leading to death and illustrating how God can use natural elements to execute judgment [[Revelation 8:11]].
* **The Experience of Prophecy:** The sweet taste and bitter effect of the little book symbolize the nature of receiving God's word. While the message itself may be sweet or glorious, its implications and the prophet's role in delivering it can be a difficult and painful burden [[Revelation 10:10]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G4087}}` is a powerful word that conveys a state of being corrupted or painful. Whether describing the literal and deadly bitterness of poisoned waters [[Revelation 8:11]] or the figurative, relational bitterness forbidden in marriage [[Colossians 3:19]], it consistently points to something harmful and undesirable. Its usage illustrates how a single concept can span from a tangible sensation to a profound spiritual and relational condition.
TRV