### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **próskomma**, represented by `{{G4348}}`, is defined as a stub, or figuratively, an occasion of apostasy, often translated as offence, stumbling-block, or stumbling-stone. It appears 6 times across 6 unique verses in the Bible. It describes both a theological reality concerning Christ and a practical warning for believers in their conduct toward one another.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In scripture, `{{G4348}}` is used in two primary contexts. First, it identifies Christ as a divine obstacle to those who reject faith. He is the "stumblingstone" laid in Sion, over whom those who pursued righteousness by the works of the law, rather than faith, stumbled [[Romans 9:32-33]]. This is echoed in [[1 Peter 2:8]], which calls him a "stone of stumbling" for the disobedient. Second, the term serves as a caution to believers regarding their personal liberties. Christians are warned not to use their freedom in a way that becomes a "stumblingblock" to the weak [[1 Corinthians 8:9]] or to put a "stumblingblock" in a brother's way, such as by eating certain foods ([[Romans 14:13]], [[Romans 14:20]]).
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the meaning of a "stumblingblock":
* `{{G4350}}` **proskóptō** (to strike at, i.e. surge against... trip up): This is the root verb from which `{{G4348}}` is derived. It describes the action of stumbling, whether it is stumbling at the word [[1 Peter 2:8]] or a brother stumbling due to another's actions [[Romans 14:21]].
* `{{G4625}}` **skándalon** (a trap-stick... snare... cause of displeasure or sin): This word is frequently paired with `{{G4348}}`, highlighting a cause of sin or an occasion to fall [[Romans 14:13]]. It is also used to describe the "rock of offence" [[Romans 9:33]].
* `{{G3037}}` **líthos** (a stone): This word is often joined with `{{G4348}}` to form the compound idea of a "stumblingstone" ([[Romans 9:33]], [[1 Peter 2:8]]). It refers to the specific object that causes the stumble.
* `{{G4073}}` **pétra** (a (mass of) rock): Similar to `{{G3037}}`, this term is used to describe the "rock of offence" ([[Romans 9:33]], [[1 Peter 2:8]]), emphasizing a large, immovable obstacle.
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of `{{G4348}}` is twofold, touching on both Christology and Christian ethics.
* **The Divine Obstacle:** Christ himself is presented as the ultimate "stumblingstone." For those who seek salvation through works, He becomes an unavoidable obstacle that leads to their stumbling [[Romans 9:32-33]]. However, for those who believe, He is the foundation upon whom they will not be ashamed.
* **Ethical Responsibility:** The concept of a "stumblingblock" establishes a core principle of Christian love and conduct. It is not enough for an action to be permissible; a believer must also consider if their liberty could cause a weaker brother to fall into sin [[1 Corinthians 8:9]]. This places a high value on protecting the conscience of others within the community [[Romans 14:13]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G4348}}` is a potent term that signifies more than a simple trip or fall. It functions as a critical theological concept, explaining the offense of the gospel to the disobedient while also serving as a practical guide for interpersonal relationships within the church. It illustrates how Christ can be both a foundation for believers and a "stumblingstone" for unbelievers, and it calls believers to walk in a manner that builds up, rather than trips up, their brethren.
TRV