The Greek adverb pollákis, represented by G4178, means many times or frequently. It is derived from G4183 polýs (many) and appears 18 times across 16 unique verses in the Bible. This word is used to emphasize the recurring nature of an action or experience, whether it be hardship, ministry, or religious ritual.
In the New Testament, G4178 is used in several key contexts. It quantifies the immense suffering endured by the apostles, with Paul recounting that he was in deaths oft 2 Corinthians 11:23, in journeyings often 2 Corinthians 11:26, and in watchings and fastings often 2 Corinthians 11:27. It also describes the persistent nature of affliction, such as the boy who ofttimes falls into the fire Matthew 17:15 or the demoniac who had been often bound with chains Mark 5:4. Beyond hardship, it highlights the regularity of ministry and fellowship, as Paul oftentimes purposed to visit the believers in Rome Romans 1:13 and Jesus ofttimes met with his disciples in a particular place John 18:2.
Several related words provide context for the frequency described by pollákis:
- G4183 polýs (many): As the root word, it establishes the concept of multiplicity. Paul uses it to warn of the many who walk as enemies of the cross, whom he has told them about often Philippians 3:18.
- G530 hápax (once): This adverb serves as a direct theological counterpoint to pollákis. It emphasizes the finality of Christ's sacrifice, which was performed once, unlike the Old Covenant sacrifices that were offered often Hebrews 9:26.
- G2794 kíndynos (peril): This noun is used repeatedly with pollákis to specify the frequent dangers Paul faced, such as "in perils of waters" and "in perils by the heathen" during his journeys 2 Corinthians 11:26.
- G3958 páschō (to suffer): This verb is often the action being quantified. Christ did not have to suffer often to put away sin Hebrews 9:26, while a boy afflicted by a spirit was described as being sore vexed Matthew 17:15.
The conceptual weight of G4178 is significant, highlighting key theological truths.
- The Endurance of Ministry: The word quantifies the relentless nature of apostolic hardship. Paul's list of being in deaths oft 2 Corinthians 11:23 or in weariness and painfulness often 2 Corinthians 11:27 serves as a testament to the cost of his ministry.
- The Sufficiency of Christ's Sacrifice: The word is critical in Hebrews to argue for the superiority of the New Covenant. The Old Testament priests had to offer sacrifices oftentimes Hebrews 10:11, an action implying incompleteness. In contrast, Christ's singular act means He did not need to suffer often Hebrews 9:26, demonstrating His final and complete atonement.
- The Persistence of Opposition: The term describes the recurring nature of both spiritual and human opposition. It characterizes the torment of the boy who ofttimes falls into fire Matthew 17:15 and Paul's need to often punish and compel blasphemers in the synagogues Acts 26:11.
- The Pattern of Fellowship: On a positive note, pollákis also defines the rhythm of faithful community. It describes the consistent encouragement Paul received from Onesiphorus, who oft refreshed him 2 Timothy 1:16, and the regular meeting place Jesus shared with His disciples John 18:2.
In summary, pollákis functions as more than a simple measure of time. It is a tool used to convey the weight of apostolic suffering, the persistence of spiritual conflict, and the steadfastness of fellowship. Most significantly, it stands in contrast to the finality of Christ's work, highlighting the difference between the repeated rituals of the Old Covenant and the singular, sufficient sacrifice that defines the New. The word illustrates how the concept of frequency can reveal profound truths about endurance, atonement, and faithfulness.
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