### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek adverb πικρῶς (pikrōs) `{{G4090}}` is derived from the adjective πικρός (pikros) `{{G4089}}`, which primarily means "bitter" in a literal sense, referring to taste. As an adverb, πικρῶς describes the manner in which an action is performed, indicating something done "bitterly." The base definition expands this to include a figurative sense of "violently," not in a physical manner, but in terms of intense emotional or experiential severity. Thus, it conveys a sense of harshness, acrimony, or profound distress, often associated with deep sorrow or regret.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The adverb πικρῶς (pikrōs) `{{G4090}}` appears exclusively twice in the New Testament, both instances describing the profound weeping of Peter immediately after his triple denial of Jesus.
* **[[Matthew 26:75]]**: "And Peter remembered the word of Jesus, which said unto him, Before the cock crow, thou shalt deny me thrice. And he went out, and wept πικρῶς."
* **[[Luke 22:62]]**: "And Peter went out, and wept πικρῶς."
In both synoptic accounts, πικρῶς modifies the verb "wept" (ἔκλαυσεν). This is not a casual or light shedding of tears, but a description of intense, agonizing, and deeply sorrowful crying. The "bitterness" here refers to the overwhelming pain of regret, shame, and self-reproach that Peter experienced upon realizing the gravity of his betrayal and the fulfillment of Jesus' prophecy. It signifies a profound emotional outburst, a "violent" expression of his inner turmoil and brokenness. This immediate and intense reaction highlights the depth of his contrition and the crushing weight of his failure.
### Related Words & Concepts
* **πικρός (pikros) `{{G4089}}`**: The root adjective, meaning "bitter" (e.g., [[Revelation 10:9]], [[Revelation 10:10]] for literal taste; [[James 3:11]], [[James 3:14]] for spiritual or emotional bitterness). This connection underscores the core sense of unpleasantness, severity, or pain.
* **πικρία (pikria) `{{G4088}}`**: The noun form, meaning "bitterness" (e.g., [[Romans 3:14]], [[Ephesians 4:31]], [[Hebrews 12:15]]). This often refers to a state of resentment, malice, or a root of evil, contrasting with the repentant sorrow conveyed by πικρῶς.
* **Repentance (μετάνοια, metanoia `{{G3341}}`)**: While πικρῶς describes the *manner* of Peter's weeping, it is inextricably linked to the concept of genuine repentance. His bitter tears are a manifestation of a changed heart and deep regret, signaling a turning away from his sin and toward God.
* **Sorrow (λύπη, lypē `{{G3077}}`)**: Peter's weeping is an expression of profound sorrow. The intensity conveyed by πικρῶς distinguishes it as a sorrow "according to God" that leads to repentance, rather than a worldly sorrow that leads to death ([[2 Corinthians 7:10]]).
### Theological Significance
The use of πικρῶς in describing Peter's weeping carries significant theological weight.
* **Authenticity of Repentance**: Peter's "bitter weeping" serves as a powerful illustration of genuine, heartfelt repentance. It was not a superficial acknowledgment of wrong but a deeply felt, agonizing sorrow over his betrayal of Christ. This intense emotional response underscores the seriousness with which God views sin and the depth of contrition expected from those who truly turn back to Him.
* **Human Frailty and Divine Grace**: Peter's failure, despite his close proximity to Jesus, highlights the pervasive reality of human weakness and the potential for even committed disciples to stumble. Yet, his bitter weeping, followed by his restoration by Christ ([[John 21:15-19]]), beautifully illustrates the boundless nature of divine grace and forgiveness. Even grievous sin, when met with such profound remorse, can be forgiven and lead to renewed purpose.
* **The Cost of Denial**: The intensity of Peter's tears speaks to the immense spiritual and emotional cost of denying Christ. It vividly portrays the immediate, painful consequences of unfaithfulness, serving as a sobering reminder of the importance of steadfastness in faith.
### Summary
The Greek adverb πικρῶς (pikrōs) `{{G4090}}` signifies an action performed "bitterly" or with intense emotional "violence." Its singular application in the New Testament, describing Peter's weeping after denying Jesus ([[Matthew 26:75]], [[Luke 22:62]]), powerfully conveys the profound depth of his remorse and agonizing contrition. This "bitter weeping" is a compelling portrayal of genuine, heartfelt repentance—a sorrow so intense that it breaks the heart and leads to a turning back to God. The term underscores both the severity of sin and the transformative power of divine grace, which embraces even those who have failed profoundly but respond with such deep and authentic sorrow.
TRV