### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **σκανδαλίζω (skandalízō)**, represented by `{{G4624}}`, is used to describe an action that entraps or trips someone up. It appears **35 times** across **28 unique verses**. Figuratively, it conveys the idea of causing someone to stumble, enticing them to sin or apostasy, or inciting displeasure, and is most often translated as to **offend**.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In scripture, `{{G4624}}` is used in several critical contexts. It carries a severe warning against causing believers to sin, particularly "little ones," with Jesus stating it would be better for a millstone to be hanged about one's neck ([[Matthew 18:6]], [[Luke 17:2]]). The term also describes a negative reaction to Jesus or his teachings; people in his own country were "offended" in him [[Matthew 13:57]], and Jesus notes that one is blessed if they are not "offended" in him [[Matthew 11:6]]. Furthermore, it is used to describe the failure of faith under pressure, as when persecution arises for the word's sake and some are "offended" [[Matthew 13:21]]. It also signifies the gravity of personal sin, prompting the command to cut off a hand or foot if it should "offend thee" [[Matthew 18:8]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the concept of being offended or causing offense:
* `{{G1287}}` **diaskorpízō** (to dissipate, i.e. (genitive case) to rout or separate): This word is linked to `{{G4624}}` in the prophecy that the shepherd would be smitten and the sheep would be "scattered abroad," a direct result of the disciples being offended [[Matthew 26:31]].
* `{{G3860}}` **paradídōmi** (to surrender, i.e yield up, intrust, transmit): In a prophecy about the end times, being "offended" is directly connected to the act of betrayal, as many will "betray one another" [[Matthew 24:10]].
* `{{G3404}}` **miséō** (to detest (especially to persecute); by extension, to love less): This term appears alongside betrayal as a consequence of being offended, stating that people "shall hate one another" [[Matthew 24:10]].
* `{{G4350}}` **proskóptō** (to strike at, i.e. surge against (as water); specially, to stub on, i.e. trip up (literally or figuratively)): This is used in parallel with `{{G4624}}`, advising against any action whereby a brother "stumbleth, or is offended, or is made weak" [[Romans 14:21]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G4624}}` is significant, highlighting key principles of the Christian walk.
* **Responsibility for Others:** The word underscores the serious duty not to cause another believer to fall into sin. Paul exemplifies this by stating he would give up his personal freedoms "lest I make my brother to offend" [[1 Corinthians 8:13]] and links causing offense to making a brother stumble or become weak [[Romans 14:21]].
* **The Test of Faith:** Being "offended" is often presented as a failure point for faith. It is what happens to the seed sown on stony ground when tribulation arises [[Mark 4:17]]. Jesus predicts that all his disciples will be "offended" because of him on the night of his betrayal [[Mark 14:27]].
* **The Scandal of the Gospel:** The term illustrates that Jesus himself and his message can be a source of offense. His disciples "murmured" at his teaching, prompting him to ask, "Doth this offend you?" [[John 6:61]]. This shows that the claims of Christ can be a stumbling block for those who do not accept them.
* **The Radical Call to Holiness:** The command to remove a part of the body that causes one to "offend" [[Matthew 5:29]] demonstrates the extreme importance of dealing with personal sin, which is the root cause of stumbling.
### Summary
In summary, `{{G4624}}` is a term with profound implications, moving far beyond simple displeasure. It speaks to the critical spiritual dangers of either causing another person to sin or allowing oneself to be turned away from faith due to hardship or challenging teachings. It frames a believer's responsibility towards their community and highlights the internal battle against sin, establishing a high standard for both personal conduct and steadfastness in faith.
TRV