("scandal"); probably from a derivative of κάμπτω; a trap-stick (bent sapling), i.e. snare (figuratively, cause of displeasure or sin):--occasion to fall (of stumbling), offence, thing that offends, stumblingblock.
### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek term σκάνδαλον (skándalon, `{{G4625}}`) carries a rich semantic range, rooted in its literal meaning. Originally, it referred to the "trap-stick" or "bent sapling" of a snare, a device designed to trip or catch an animal. This primary sense immediately conveys the idea of something hidden or unexpected that causes a fall. Figuratively, therefore, σκάνδαλον denotes anything that causes one to stumble, fall, or be led into sin. It can be an "occasion to fall," an "offense," or a "stumblingblock." The underlying concept is that of an impediment or an enticement that leads to moral or spiritual failure, or a source of profound displeasure and antagonism. It is not merely a minor inconvenience but something that actively precipitates a serious misstep or a complete collapse from a righteous path.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The term σκάνδαλον appears frequently in the New Testament, illustrating its multifaceted application:
* **Moral and Spiritual Stumbling Blocks:** Jesus warns against those who cause others to stumble, especially "little ones" (disciples or new believers), stating that it would be better for such a person to have a millstone hung around their neck and be drowned ([[Matthew 18:7]]). He also declares that "all causes of sin and all law-breakers" (πάντα τὰ σκάνδαλα καὶ τοὺς ποιοῦντας τὴν ἀνομίαν) will be gathered out of His kingdom at the harvest ([[Matthew 13:41]]), emphasizing the ultimate removal of all sources of spiritual offense.
* **Christ as a Stumbling Block:** For many, Jesus Himself became a σκάνδαλον. Peter, when rebuking Jesus for speaking of His suffering, is called a "stumbling block" (σκανδαλόν) by Jesus, because he was thinking human thoughts, not divine ones ([[Matthew 16:23]]). Paul elaborates on this, explaining that the message of "Christ crucified" is a "stumbling block to Jews and foolishness to Gentiles" ([[1 Corinthians 1:23]]), fulfilling the prophecy of Isaiah concerning a "stone of stumbling and a rock of offense" ([[Romans 9:33]]; cf. [[Isaiah 8:14]] and [[1 Peter 2:8]]). The cross, far from being a symbol of triumph, was an offense to those expecting a conquering Messiah or philosophical wisdom.
* **Interpersonal Stumbling Blocks:** Paul frequently uses σκάνδαλον in the context of Christian community, urging believers not to cause a brother or sister to stumble. In [[Romans 14:13]], he admonishes believers "not to put a stumbling block or hindrance in the way of another." This applies particularly to matters of conscience, such as eating food sacrificed to idols ([[Romans 14:20-21]]) or observing certain days. The principle is that one's actions, even if permissible for oneself, should not lead a weaker brother into sin or compromise their conscience. Similarly, in [[1 Corinthians 8:9]], Paul warns that liberty in Christ should not become a "stumbling block" to the weak.
### Related Words & Concepts
The semantic field of σκάνδαλον is closely tied to several other significant biblical terms and concepts:
* **σκανδαλίζω (skandalizō, `{{G4624}}`):** This is the verbal form of σκάνδαλον, meaning "to cause to stumble," "to offend," or "to tempt to sin." It appears frequently alongside its noun form, as seen in Jesus' warnings about causing "little ones" to stumble ([[Matthew 18:6]]).
* **προσκόμμα (proskomma, `{{G4349}}`):** Often translated "stumbling block" or "offense," this term also refers to an obstacle over which one might trip. It is used synonymously with σκάνδαλον in passages like [[Romans 9:32-33]] and [[1 Peter 2:8]], highlighting Christ as both a stone of stumbling (λίθος προσκόμματος) and a rock of offense (πέτρα σκανδάλου).
* **Sin (ἁμαρτία, hamartia, `{{G264}}`):** σκάνδαλον is a direct cause or occasion for sin. The presence of a σκάνδαλον leads to the act of ἁμαρτία.
* **Temptation (πειρασμός, peirasmos, `{{G3986}}`):** While σκάνδαλον is the *cause* or *occasion* for a fall, πειρασμός refers to the *testing* or *trial* itself, which may or may not lead to a fall. A σκάνδαλον can be a form of πειρασμός.
* **Conscience (συνείδησις, syneidēsis, `{{G4893}}`):** Paul's teaching on not causing others to stumble is deeply intertwined with respecting the conscience of fellow believers, particularly the "weak" conscience.
### Theological Significance
The theological implications of σκάνδαλον are profound and far-reaching:
* **The Seriousness of Sin and its Causes:** The concept of σκάνδαλον underscores the gravity of anything that leads to sin. Jesus' stark warnings (e.g., about millstones) reveal the divine abhorrence for those who actively or passively cause others to fall away from faith or righteousness. It highlights sin not merely as an individual transgression but as a potentially contagious spiritual disease.
* **The Paradox of the Gospel:** The fact that Christ and His cross are a σκάνδαλον reveals a core paradox of divine revelation. God's wisdom, embodied in the crucified Messiah, is antithetical to human wisdom and expectations. This offense serves as a divine test, exposing the true spiritual disposition of humanity—whether one will humble oneself before God's unconventional power or reject it as foolishness.
* **Christian Responsibility and Love:** The extensive use of σκάνδαλον in ethical admonitions (especially by Paul) emphasizes the believer's responsibility to live in a way that promotes, rather than hinders, the spiritual well-being of others. Love for one's neighbor, particularly for the "weak" in faith, transcends personal liberty. It calls for self-restraint and discernment, prioritizing the spiritual growth and purity of the community over individual rights or preferences. This principle is foundational to Christian communal life and witness.
* **Divine Justice and Purification:** The ultimate removal of "all causes of sin" from God's kingdom at the end of the age speaks to God's perfect justice and His commitment to a purified, holy people. It signifies the final triumph over all that opposes His righteous reign.
### Summary
σκάνδαλον (skándalon, `{{G4625}}`) literally denotes a "trap-stick" or "snare," and figuratively, anything that causes one to stumble, fall, or be led into sin. Its New Testament usage is rich and varied, encompassing moral pitfalls, the paradoxical offense of Christ and His cross, and the responsibility of believers to avoid causing others to stumble through their actions or liberties. Theologically, σκάνδαλον highlights the profound seriousness of sin's origins, the counter-intuitive nature of the Gospel, the ethical imperative of love and consideration within the Christian community, and God's ultimate plan for a purified kingdom free from all sources of spiritual offense. It serves as a potent reminder of the subtle dangers that can lead to spiritual ruin and the call to vigilant, selfless living in Christ.
TRV